Holcut, Mississippi facts for kids
Holcut was once a small town in Tishomingo County, Mississippi, United States. It was a quiet place until a big project changed its future forever. In 1976, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers bought the town and carefully moved or took down all its buildings. This was because Holcut was right in the path of a massive new canal being built.
What Happened to Holcut?
Holcut had to be moved because of a huge construction project called the Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway. This waterway is like a giant water highway that connects the Tennessee River to the Tombigbee River. It helps boats and barges travel between different parts of the country, making it easier and cheaper to move goods.
Building a Water Highway
The Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway is a very long canal system, about 234-mile (377 km) (377 km) long. It was built between 1972 and 1984. Imagine digging a huge ditch that stretches for hundreds of miles! This project was a big deal for the region, helping with shipping and trade.
The Divide Cut
One of the most important parts of the waterway is called the "Divide Cut." This section is about 29-mile (47 km) (47 km) long and cuts through a high ridge of land. It was a massive digging job, creating a deep channel for boats to pass through. Unfortunately, the town of Holcut was located exactly where this important part of the canal needed to go.
Remembering Holcut
Because the town had to be moved for the waterway, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wanted to make sure Holcut was not forgotten. After the town was gone, they built a special memorial right next to the canal, close to where Holcut used to be. This memorial helps people remember the town and its history, even though the buildings are no longer there. It's a way to honor the community that made way for a big national project.
