Originally named Artesia Junction, the town of Artesia was a junction point on the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, joining a spur line to Columbus with the main line west of Artesia. The M&O Railroad built a hotel there, which became known as the Chidsey House, for the man who managed it. After about twenty-five years of operation, it burned and was not rebuilt. The town that grew up around this junction became known as Artesia Junction, for a cluster of artesian wells that were in the area, and its name was later shortened to Artesia. The town of Mayhew is north of Artesia, Perins is south, and Sessums, is west. The larger cities of Columbus is about twenty miles to the northeast, and Starkville is about fifteen miles to the northwest.
Recommended Resources
The Southern Baptist Church meets at its facilities on West Artesia Road in Artesia, Mississippi. A map shows the location of the church, Sunday and Wednesday schedules, a calendar of upcoming programs and events, staff contacts, and congregational photographs are featured.
http://artesiabaptist.com/
Artesia began as a railroad town, at the area where the main line of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad intersected a spur line to Columbus. The town’s history is cited on the official municipal web site, along with contacts for the town officials and a guide to local businesses, schools, churches, attractions and events.
http://artesiams.org/
The genealogical resource offers a series of articles written by former residents of Artesia, a history of the Artesia Baptist Church, an article on the town’s history submitted by Mr. and Mrs. J.E. McIlwain and Mrs. Sue Lindley, photographs, and other articles related to the history of the community.
http://lowndes.msghn.org/artesia1.shtml
