These 10 Mississippi Towns Have The Silliest Names But Are So Worth A Visit
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Daniella DiRienzo
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There are some great towns in Mississippi. But you’ve got to admit, some of them have names that are a bit, well, silly. However, you don’t want to judge these towns based on their offbeat monikers because, as it turns out, some of the state’s unusually-named towns are home to great sites and attractions. Read on for 10 perfect examples.
Founded in the 1900s, this Delta community is named in honor of Hernando Money, a U.S. Senator from Mississippi. Decades after its founding, Money became infamously known as the murder site of 14-year-old Emmett Till. It's said that the young teen's slaying galvanized the Civil Rights movement. As a way to commemorate him, the Emmett Till Trail was created. Start the trail in Money at Bryant's Grocery and then continue to the Emmett Till Historic Intrepid Center in Glendora and the Sumner Courthouse in Tallahatchie County.
This Delta town got its name from Thomas Chaney, the area's first resident. Shortly after arriving in the area, Chaney made note of how swiftly the water flowed at the creek's fork and named the area Rolling Fork. Today, the charming town of 2,500 has a reputation for great festivals, blues-related sites, and Mount Helena, a historic home that's open for tours.
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Many Mississippi town names have Native American origins, and Pascagoula is one of them. So just what does the name mean? It actually translates to "bread eater." Don’t let the name fool you, though — you can a lot more than eat bread in Pascagoula. Spend your time in the coastal town relaxing on the beach, touring Round Island Lighthouse, dining at some of the area’s best restaurants, and more.
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This Delta community received its unique moniker in 1859. It's named after an African American settler, Feyton Mhoon, who, on a nightly basis, would place a lantern in a lighthouse to guide ships navigating the nearby Mississippi River. Today, the small community boasts a riverside park, which includes picnic areas, a playground, walking trails, and incredible views of the Mighty Mississippi.
This small town got its peculiar name because of its location on the Strong River. According to researchers at the University of Southern Mississippi, the name came from the French who referred to the area on a map as "de l'eau sans potable," which translates to "bad drinking water." Over time, it was shortened to the current version, D'Lo. The water may have been deemed undrinkable, but it’s great for recreation — check it out for yourself with a visit to D’Lo Water Park.
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Not surprisingly, this tiny town was named after the nearby Chunky River. A great place for some water-related fun, the crystal clear waters of the river are great for fishing, canoeing, and swimming… but that’s not its only claim to fame. The river just so happens to be home to the state’s tallest waterfall, Dunn’s Falls. The 65’ waterfall is part of the Dunn’s Falls Water Park, making it incredibly easy to access.
This town’s unusual name is the result of a late night poker game between two local cotton farmers. The story goes that one farmer wagered his farm and lost it. After that final hand, the winner looked at his watch, realized it was midnight, and decided that’s what he’d name his new farm. The town that popped up around the farm eventually took on the same name. Though there isn’t much in Midnight, it’s just a few miles from Belzoni, where you’ll find Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area.
Another town with Native American roots, Pontotoc is a Chickasaw word meaning, "land of hanging grapes." The town has a lot more to offer than grapes, though. Visit today, and you’ll find great antique shops, a museum loaded with local history, and access to one of the state’s best trails, the Tanglefoot Trail.
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As you’ve probably already guessed, this name is a result of Lauderdale County’s Native American heritage. Today, Toomsuba is classified as an unincorporated community and is home to about 770 residents and one of the state’s best campgrounds — Toomsuba KOA. Far from a typical campground, this one includes a 550’ waterslide that winds through the trees for a thrilling adventure like no other.
According to the website, City Data, this is one of the most commonly mispronounced town names in Mississippi. Now an unincorporated community, Saucier was settled in 1848 by the Saucier family. A great place for some outdoor fun, Saucier is home to the renowned Grand Bear Golf Course and the Tuxachanie Trail.
So, did you know about the towns listed above? Ever visited any of them? Know of another silly named town that’s a must-visit? Tell us in the comments section.
Unusually-named towns aren’t the only silly aspect of Mississippi. Click here to read about silly state laws.
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