So many town names in our state have stories behind them. One such municipal moniker is Seminary, Mississippi. Today, the small town is most known for offering some of the best canoeing and kayaking in Mississippi, but that wasn’t always the case. Years ago, it was revered for being home to one of the state’s top educational facilities – something that’s clearly had a long-standing effect on the town.

The smallest of small towns in Mississippi, Seminary is home to just a few hundred residents.
Mississippi Power/Facebook
Despite its small size, most Mississippians are familiar with Seminary since Okatoma Creek, a popular paddling spot, runs right through it. However, while most are aware of Seminary’s existence, many are completely unaware of the town’s history, which goes back much further than its 1899 incorporation date.
In 1845, A. R. Graves, an area resident and Presbyterian pastor, opened Zion Seminary, a boarding school for men and women.
Mississippi Department of Archives and History/Wikipedia
The school flourished. At its prime, it had more than 500 students as well as several dorms and cottages to house them.
Today, the only sign of the school’s existence in Mississippi history is an actual sign.
covingtoncountyms.gov
Zion Seminary burned down during the Civil War. It’s alleged that Union sympathizers – not Union soldiers – started the fire that destroyed the school; however, this notion hasn’t been proven.

Zion Seminary isn’t the only thing that brought people to the area, though. In the late-1800s, hordes of lumber companies descended upon the Piney Woods region of Mississippi. It was around this time that Seminary’s population began to boom. In 1899, Seminary residents petitioned the state for incorporation. When it was granted, citizens chose the name Seminary in honor of the school that once drew people to the town.
These days, people head to Seminary for far different reasons than those of decades ago.
Okatoma Canoe Rental/Facebook
One of the town’s biggest draws, of course, is Okatoma Creek, which boasts clear waters, gentle rapids, and a few small falls.

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There are several outfitters that facilitate canoeing and kayaking trips on the creek.
Okatoma Outdoor Post/Facebook
Seminary Canoe Rental and Okatoma Outdoor Post are two of the creek’s most popular outfitters.
Shady Acres Village is another reason people visit this historic town in Mississippi.
Three Wheel Therapy 3WT/Google
A great day trip destination, Shady Acres Village is home to a family restaurant with southern-style cooking and BBQ – but that’s not all. The village also features an old-timey general store, bakery, and garden center.
Small-town charm is another hallmark of Seminary.
Town of Seminary/Facebook
Like most small towns, Seminary hosts a variety of community events.
And even though it’s a small town, Seminary is home to some great lodging options, making it easy to turn a day-trip into an overnight adventure.
vrbo.com
This riverfront cabin in Mississippi features lots of amazing amenities – inside and out – including a private beach.
vrbo.com
You can reserve the riverfront cabin in Mississippi today and get ready for your vacation!

Want to know more about this charming small town in Mississippi? Check out the Town of Seminary Facebook page, where you’ll find info on town happenings, events, and more.

So, how do you think Seminary ranks as far as rural Mississippi towns go? Ever been to Seminary? If so, did you visit any of the places mentioned above? Did we miss your favorite Seminary spot? Whatever it is, tell us!

When it comes to Mississippi town names, Seminary isn’t the only moniker with some meaning behind it. Check out these Mississippi town names, which most don’t know the meaning behind.

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More to Explore

Small Towns in Mississippi

Danielle Schwartz | October 08, 2022

What are the most scenic towns in Mississippi?

If you're hoping to visit the most scenic towns in Mississippi, you're in luck. We've put together a great list of fun towns with great scenery for you to visit. Port Gibson is one fun place to take a little trip. It only has 1500 residents and is known for its amazing beauty. According to legend, General Grant decided not to burn the town because it was too pretty. You'll find the Windsor Ruins here as well as lots of other Civil War history. Bay Saint Louis is great if you're hoping for the conveniences of a bigger city. With about 10,000 people calling it home, there's plenty of fun to be had here. It's great for beachgoers as well as those who love shopping and exploring new restaurants.

What are the smallest towns in Mississippi?

The smallest towns in Mississippi are full of intriguing history and charm. Utica is one such place. With a population of just 1,000, you might assume it has always been a very low-key place to live, but it actually used to be a bustling city. Check out the Ellis Price Mansion and the Woodmen the World Building to learn about the history of Utica. If you love towns with outdoor activities, head to Woodville. It has about 1,100 residents, but plenty of visitors enjoy the beautiful Clark Creek Nature Area, which features more than 50 waterfalls! When it's summertime and you want to be by the water, Woodville makes an ideal getaway.

What are the oldest towns in Mississippi?

If you're a history buff, you probably know what some of the oldest towns in Mississippi are, but have you explored them for yourself? If not, make this the year you finally do it! Natchez is one town that's been around for quite a while. It was established in the early 1700s and featured many wealthy residents with grand homes that you can still tour today! Biloxi is another gorgeous town to visit. There is evidence of human civilization all the way back to 8,000 B.C.! The modern-day version was officially established in 1817 after changing hands many times over about 100 years.

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Seminary, MS 39479, USA