| When
the Mississippi State Legislature decided to move the state capital from
Natchez to a site more central to the State, the site that is now Jackson
was selected for its beauty and abundant natural resources.
The 19th Century was
not a good period for Jackson. By 1900 the city had a population of only
8,000 and about the only thing going for it was the State Capital. But the
20th Century brought the city to life. Now, with about 400,000 residents,
the city is a thriving distribution center making maximum use of the
Interstate Highways, the railroads and about 8 major air carriers.
|
Mississippi
is a living history book and Jackson is a major chapter. From the historic
homes (many open to visitors) to unique, interactive museums, history
lessons are everywhere.
Of particular
interest - especially to the kids - is the Mississippi
Museum of Natural Science at the LeFleur's Bluff State Park. A unique
marriage of indoor and outdoor displays - including live animals and birds
- makes learning fun and exciting. Their 'swamp', a 1,700 sqft greenhouse,
contains a 20,000 gallon aquarium populated with alligators, turtles and
fish all in a realistically landscaped garden native plants.
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