Among the United States’ most fertile lands lies Drew, Mississippi, with a population under 2,000.
The town celebrates 125 years of rich history in 2024.
The town will hold a celebration this coming Monday, starting at noon, according to Mayor Melanie Townsend.
There will be a parade, a health fair, a voter registration drive, refreshments, bounce houses and more.
These days, Drew and the surrounding region are among the rural American communities with the highest rates of chronic poverty.
But it's not by coincidence. The historical injustices of the past easily transfer into the present, more than 150 years after the Civil War. Here, the remnants of racist segregation and slavery endure. However, creative thinking and perseverance also survive amid ongoing systemic marginalization.
Drew is notable for its dark and bright history, and importantly, internationally-known celebrities such as: Mae Bertha Carter, Civil Rights activist; Boo Boo Davis, Blues singer who released an album entitled Drew, Mississippi; Al Dixon, former NFL tight end; Harold Dorman, rock and roll singer and songwriter; William Eggleston, photographer who grew up in Drew; Willie Louis, born Willie Reed, witness to the murder
of Emmett Till; Archie Manning, former NFL quarterback, patriarch of the Manning family; Billy Stacy, former NFL safety; and Pops Staples and Cleotha Staples, members of the Staple Singers.
The town has seen its population dwindle from economic struggles to natural disasters and its infrastructure deteriorate. However, in recent years, Drew has undergone a remarkable transformation, overcoming its challenges and embracing a new era of growth and prosperity. One of the key factors in this turnaround has been a renewed focus on community engagement and collaboration. Local leaders, business owners and residents have come together to form partnerships and initiatives aimed at revitalizing the town and improving the quality of life for its residents.
The town has made investments to modernize its utilities and roads, guaranteeing that its citizens have access to dependable and secure infrastructure. With the help of these initiatives, Drew has been able to draw in new families and residents, increasing the area's population and ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come. As a whole, Drew has effectively overcome its difficulties and is well on its way to a brighter tomorrow through a mix of economic growth, community participation, and infrastructural upgrades.
