About
Town of Pickens, Mississippi
Pickens is located in Holmes County in central Mississippi, along the historic Yazoo River region. Situated near Interstate 55, Pickens enjoys convenient access to larger nearby communities such as Durant, Goodman, and Lexington, while also being within reasonable driving distance of the Jackson metropolitan area. Its location provides a connection to key north-south transportation routes in the state, offering small-town charm with accessibility to regional business, travel, and community resources.
Mission Statement
"Let’s Begin the Rebirth by working together to regrow our community through unity, transparency, and a commitment to progress for every citizen".
ABOUT
Core Values and Vision
The town's strategic vision is built upon the core value of regrowing a community from the ground up. This involves:
Collaborative Governance:
Emphasizing that progress is only possible when the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, and citizens work as a single unit.
Infrastructure Investment:
A primary focus on grantseeking for critical infrastructure improvement, ensuring the town's water, roads, and public facilities meet modern standards.
Economic Rebirth:
Creating an environment that attracts new opportunities while supporting existing local residents
Historical Narrative and Impacts
Pickens has a deep and complex history in Holmes County.
· Origins: Named after landowner James Pickens, the town was officially incorporated in 1858.
· Early Growth: By the late 1800s, Pickens was a thriving hub with three major business firms, established churches (Methodist, Baptist, and Presbyterian), and its first newspaper, The Pickens Post, founded in 1885.
· Historical Impact: The town was the first incorporated municipality in Holmes County (1836/1893). It has been home to notable figures like civil rights activist Gus Courts and Judge Odas Nicholson.
· Social Evolution: Like much of the region, Pickens navigated the significant social shifts of the Reconstruction and Civil Rights eras, which continue to shape its identity as a resilient, majority-Black community today.