Founded in 1997 by Mary Ellen Watrous Alexander, a member of one of the oldest families of the city, who also wrote the popular and successful book, “Rosalie and Radishes: A History of Long Beach, Mississippi”, the society’s purpose is to bring together those who are interested in the history of Long Beach and to coordinate their efforts in preserving and recording that history for future generations.
By the year 2001, the society was already the winner of two awards given by the Federation of Mississippi Historical Societies. One, for Outstanding Member of the year 2000, and another, the prestigious Frank E Everett Award for “exemplary contribution to the preservation and interpretation of the history of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”
The actions of the Long Beach Historical Society are:
- Presenting a quarterly newsletter: Smoke from the Chimneys
- Organizing interesting programs
- Recognizing worthy individuals with yearly awards
- Creating historical markers to commemorate important events
- Keeping a profile in the community by participation in local events
- Locating the oldest homes in the city
- Keeping history alive by displaying photographs of the past
- Collecting information from the past to show in our library, which includes family stories, scrapbooks, and other information
You are invited to join us in these worthwhile endeavors by clicking on the Members tab above and viewing the low dues required.