We arrived at the great state of Mississippi where everything slows down to “river time.” Sunsets, conversations, music, traveling, cooking and even walking take on a drawling pace.
Why Corinth? We came for the Civil War historic sites, but left with a love for this charming town anxious to share its architecture, history, and food with visitors. There was so much effort put into making sure a visitor experienced the past and future of the city. From rooftop bars and locally owned restaurants to walking and driving tours to museums and parks, Corinth overflowed with genuine southern hospitality.
History
Corinth, MS was a vital railroad junction in 1862. When the confederates retreated to Corinth after the battle of Shiloh, both sides converged at the “Crossroads” for another bloody battle. When the South lost control of the railways at Corinth, the ability to move supplies and troops was restricted and the Union gained another foothold in the western theater.
When we saw that we could stay overnight at the Crossroads Museum depot, we jumped at the chance! Parking close to the rail junction and seeing the tracks run off in the four directions brought home the importance of this location. We were surprised by the number of freight trains that thundered along the tracks every few hours, blowing their horns right outside our windows. The experience of staying at an active railroad station may not be for everyone, but we loved it!
We also stayed in a campground for three additional nights. The campground owner – a truly southern gentleman named Jim – made sure we had all the maps, literature and recommendations necessary to make a thorough visit.
Our first stop was the Civil War Interpretive Center. The museum contained a large collection of Civil War artifacts and also a reflecting pool memorial, a reproduction of a fort battlement, and a research library filled with volumes of records of the Mississippi regiments. The concrete walkway from the parking lot to the entrance was designed to evoke a walk through a battlefield strewn with left behind weapons and various articles carried (lost) by the soldiers. Combined with the courtyard memorial, the Center makes quite an impression of the ravages and magnitude of the war fronts in this state. No wonder everywhere we went, the people of Corinth kept asking if we had seen the Interpretive Center yet!
Along the driving tour, we visited another unique Civil War site – The Contraband Camp. When escaping slaves sought refuge with the Union troops sieging Corinth, they were given sanctuary. However, they were still considered “property” and so treated as war contraband. The newly free people were allowed to set up their own camp at the edge of town on a missionary’s farm. The preserved area has a walking trail with bronze statues depicting life in the camp. It was quite a moving and contemplative park.
The rest of the self-guided driving tour provided the battle locations for both engagements endured by Corinth. By the end of the battles, Corinth had been reduced to nothing but bombed out buildings and homes converted to hospitals to care for the overwhelming casualties on both sides that were left behind.
Architecture
The self-guided walking tour, “60 Sights in 60 Minutes” celebrates many of these structures that have been restored to their former glory. Some even operate as Bed & Breakfast lodgings.
Duncan house-1857
Used by Gen. Beauregard during the siege of Corinth.
Verandah house-1857
Named for it’s large wrap-around porch, it served as the headquarters for six different Civil War generals.
Oak House-1856
Used as headquarters for Confederate Major General Polk.
Filmore Street Chapel – 1871
Built after the Civil War by Swiss architect Martin Siegrist. The Chapel is the oldest church in Corinth.
The oldest drug store in Mississippi, Borrom’s, still serves malts and their famous “slug burgers” at their lunch counter. (“Slug burgers” aren’t made from those creepy crawlies, but were nicknamed during the Depression due to customers trying to pay the nickle price with a slug.)
We opted for a delicious lunch at Miss Magnolia located in a building design described as Romanesque Revival and built in 1905.
Food
Another delicious discovery was Dilworth’s Tamales. 100 years after the Civil War, the delta-style tamale was introduced to Corinth. We loved the walk-up window and straight forward menu: Hot Tamales or Mild Tamales, Soup, and drinks. They were so delicious, we went back for a second order!
and More…
This story and other local notables were highlighted in the Crossroads Museum along with train memorabilia, miniature trains, Civil War items, and ancient tribal artifacts.
Entering into the Delta Blues region and just north of Elvis’ birthplace, Corinth offered several venues of live music all within walking distance of the museum.
The hospitality we received everywhere we went combined with the thoughtful historic sites put Corinth among our favorite cities to visit.
Campground Review: Cross City RV Park, Corinth, Mississippi
This is a charming, no frills campground located on a wooded lot and a 10 minute drive south of Corinth, MS. Pull thru sites are gravel with full hook ups, bathroom/shower was clean and laundry room offered one free washer and a $1 dryer, covered porch area with swing and rocking chairs. We were warmly greeted by the owner, Jim, upon arrival. Went out of his way to orient us to the local attractions in Corinth, provided a map and directions to the historic sites and restaurants. The campground was quiet, clean and easy access to HWY 45. Check or cash payments only, WiFi good for email and youtube, intermittent T-Mobile, sites do not have picnic table or fire ring. We would stay here again and recommend this park for its convenience, value, and customer service.
Next up… Wildlife Preserve and Wild Weather
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