Holmesville, Mississippi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Holmesville, Mississippi
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 Holmesville, Mississippi
Location in Mississippi
Holmesville, Mississippi
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Mississippi |
| County | Pike |
| Elevation | 299 ft (91 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 671358 |
Holmesville is a small, unincorporated community in Pike County, Mississippi, United States. This means it's a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. You can find Holmesville on the west bank of the Bogue Chitto river. It is about 11 miles (18 km) southeast of McComb.
Contents
The Story of Holmesville
How Holmesville Got Its Name
Holmesville was named on December 11, 1816. It was named to honor Major Andrew Hunter Holmes. Special officials chose this spot because it was in the middle of the newly formed Pike County. They wanted it to be the main place for justice and government for the county.
A Busy Center for Many Years
For a long time, Holmesville was the main center for trade and business in Pike County. It was a very important and busy place.
The Railroad Changes Everything
In 1857, something big happened. The Illinois Central Railroad was built about 9 miles (14 km) west of Holmesville. This new railroad did not go through Holmesville. Instead, it went through other areas.
Because of the railroad, people and businesses started to move. They left Holmesville and went to new towns built along the railroad. These towns included Magnolia, Summit, and Osyka.
Losing the County Seat
In 1873, the town of Magnolia was chosen as the new county seat. The county seat is where the main government offices and courthouse are located. A new courthouse was built in Magnolia in 1876.
Sadly, in 1881, this new courthouse burned down. Most of the old records from Holmesville and Pike County were lost in the fire.
Holmesville's Decline
After the railroad bypassed Holmesville and the county seat moved, most businesses left. People followed the businesses, and Holmesville became much quieter. Efforts were made to save the old buildings, but many were torn down or fell apart. Today, only a few old structures remain from its busy past.
A Popular Place for Vacations
Even as it changed, Holmesville was once a popular spot for people to visit. During the summer, many people came from places like New Orleans. They came to escape sicknesses like cholera and yellow fever. People enjoyed Holmesville because it was healthy, had beautiful scenery, and clean water. It was a great place for outdoor activities and quiet relaxation.
