Explore Hattiesburg’s Civil Rights Legacy: A Journey Through History

Hattiesburg played a significant role in the 1964 Freedom Summer 1964—a campaign aimed at registering Black voters in Mississippi. This pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement was part of a broader fight for justice, and the Freedom Summer Trail includes several important stops across the city, reflecting Hattiesburg’s leadership in the struggle for civil rights. For a deeper, immersive experience, visitors can also take the Freedom Summer Trail Audio Tour, which features oral histories from local civil rights leaders and captures the emotional and historical weight of this struggle. You can access the audio tour and learn more about Hattiesburg's role in the Freedom Summer through the Hattiesburg Freedom Trail website.

Vernon Dahmer, Sr., a civil rights icon, stands as one of the most important figures in Hattiesburg’s history. Dahmer was a leader in the fight to register Black voters and was tragically killed in 1966 by the Ku Klux Klan for his activism. His leadership and his fight for voting rights are recognized through the Freedom Trail Marker in Hattiesburg. In his honor, a bronze statue stands in front of the Forrest County Courthouse in Hattiesburg, engraved with his famous quote: "If you don't vote, you don't count." Dahmer’s unwavering commitment to justice, his service as a community leader, and his sacrifice for the cause of Black voting rights make him a symbol of resilience in the face of tremendous adversity.


Clyde Kennard, a pivotal figure in the Ccivil Rrights Mmovement, is best known for his courageous attempt to integrate Tthe University of Southern Mississippi (USM). In 1955, he attempted to enroll at USM, challenging Mississippi’s segregationist policies. Despite facing intense opposition from local and state officials, Kennard persisted, seeking justice in the courts. His legal battles resulted in the first major lawsuit for Black students to gain access to higher education in Mississippi, paving the way for the eventual desegregation of Mississippi’s universities. Though he was never admitted to USM during his lifetime, his persistence changed the course of the state's history. Kennard’s contributions to education and civil rights are commemorated at the Clyde Kennard University Integration Freedom Marker at USM. His legacy continues to inspire the fight for educational equality and justice.


Raylawni Branch, a civil rights leader from Hattiesburg, was deeply involved in the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO), SNCC, and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). She participated in the March on Washington in 1963 and was one of the first two African American students to integrate USM in 1965, alongside Gwendolyn Elaine Armstrong-Chamberlain. After moving to New York for nursing studies, Branch joined the Air Force Reserves, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She earned a master’s degree in Community Health Nursing from USM and worked as an instructor, continuing to advocate for the underprivileged and veterans.

The African American Military History Museum in Hattiesburg offers a profound look at the contributions of African American service members, honoring their courage and sacrifices. Hattiesburg, known for its military significance, is home to this museum, which showcases the stories and sacrifices of Black men and women who served in wars from the Civil War to modern-day conflicts.

One of the museum's most prominent exhibits is dedicated to Ensign Jesse Leroy Brown, Hattiesburg's native son and the U.S. Navy's first Black aviator. In 1950, Brown made history when he became the first African American to earn his wings as a naval aviator. Sadly, during the Korean War, he was killed in action, becoming the first Black naval aviator to die in combat. His remarkable story of bravery was portrayed in the 2022 film Devotion, which honors his legacy alongside that of fellow aviator Tom Hudner.


Additionally, the museum celebrates the 75th anniversary of the USO for Black military. Established to provide essential support to African American service members, the USO played a vital role during segregation, and this milestone anniversary is a reminder of the courage and resilience of these individuals. The building itself is one of the only remaining USO buildings built for Black soldiers still in existence.

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, Hattiesburg’s Freedom Trail continues to grow, with the most recent marker honoring Dorie and Dr. Joyce Ladner. Hattiesburg's civil rights history continues to be told and celebrated, and this new addition highlights the lasting impact of the Ladner sisters on the movement. Located at 507 Mobile Street, this marker is part of the Sixth Street Museum District and a stop on the Hattiesburg 1964 Freedom Summer Trail. The site, formerly the Woods Guest House during Freedom Summer, also features a “Bench by the Road” project bench, donated by Toni Morrison to honor civil rights leaders.

The Ladner sisters were pivotal figures in the civil rights movement, contributing significantly to the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement. Dorie Ladner and Dr. Joyce Ladner were instrumental in organizing protests and were deeply involved in the Forrest County NAACP. The sisters also organized a pivotal history-making prayer meeting supporting the Tougaloo 9, a group of students attempting to integrate the Jackson Library. After their time in Mississippi, they both moved to Washington, D.C., where they continued their advocacy with —Dr. Joyce Ladner later became the provost of Howard University.


This marker honors their legacy in Hattiesburg, commemorating their significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and their continued impact on national efforts for racial justice.

The Historic Eureka School, established in 1921, was the only public school for African Americans in Hattiesburg until 1949, serving grades 1 through 12. It stands as a symbol of the community’s resilience and determination during the era of educational segregation. Despite limited resources, the school became a central institution for Black students in the area, offering education and fostering a sense of unity and pride within the community. Fully renovated in recent years and transformed into a future museum, the property serves as a testament to the icons who fought for racial equality.

Located at the Eureka School, the Generations Strong Freedom Marker honors the courage of the local community during the struggle for educational racial equality. The marker pays tribute to the fight to end segregation and achieve equal educational opportunities, celebrating the brave individuals who stood up for change. This tribute to the community’s perseverance and dedication is a key part of Hattiesburg’s broader civil rights history.

Hattiesburg’s extensive civil rights history is not just a reflection of the struggles of the past—it is a living legacy. Visitors to the city can explore these markers, museums, and historical sites to better understand the efforts made by individuals who fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and freedom.

Whether you’re walking or driving the Freedom Summer Trail, reflecting as you listen to the testimony of heroes, or learning about the contributions of local leaders like Vernon Dahmer and Clyde Kennard at Freedom sites, Hattiesburg offers a deep and impactful experience that connects visitors with the powerful history of the Civil Rights Movement.