Decatur, Mississippi is the county seat of Newton County. Named for Commodore Stephen Decatur, the city was created to be the seat of government for the county after it was organized in 1836. In its early days, the court house building was used for court during the day, and served as a bank at night. Decatur was also known for being wild, with a race track and horse racing, gambling, dog fights, drinking, and a dance hall. There were no churches in Decatur until 1851 when the Baptist Church was constructed. A Methodist Church followed in 1855. There were no schools until 1886. During the War of Northern Aggression, troops under Union General Sherman created a large amount of destruction in Decatur, burning the town’s courthouse, churches, businesses, and homes. The people of Decatur rebuilt after the Civil War, however. Originally chartered as a village, Decatur became a town in 1912, and several schools were built. Decatur is situated north of Interstate Highway 20 and the community of Newton. Other nearby communities include Conehatta, Duffee, Little Rock, Perdue, Prospect, Stratton, and Union. Meridian is just under thirty miles to the southeast, and Jackson is just over seventy miles to the west.
Recommended Resources
The Southern Baptist congregation meets at its facilities on West Broad Street in Decatur, Mississippi. A map and directions to the church are given, its worship schedules, a calendar of programs and events, pastoral contacts, office hours, and its beliefs and practices are outlined.
http://www.clarkevenable.com/
A history and profile of the community is offered on the official municipal web site, its elected and appointed officials are recognized, contact information is given, and office hours are posted, along with a guide to local services, facilities, and organizations. Public notices are posted to the site.
http://www.decaturms.org/
East Central Community College
ECCC is a junior college in Decatur, Mississippi that serves a five-county district. Its admissions policies, academic and degree programs, athletics programs, alumni resources, workforce training, and online learning program are highlighted, along with news and announcements.
http://www.eccc.edu/
Organized in 1836 and named for Sir Isaac Newton, Newton County’s seat of government is in Decatur, Mississippi, the county seat. It site features a brief profile of the county, county maps, administrative and departmental contacts, meeting schedules, and a guide to county services and facilities.
http://newtoncountyms.net/
Formed in 1969, the Decatur, Mississippi Christian school offers an educational program for students in K-3 through the 12th grade. Its history, mission, admissions policies, and an overview of its academic and sports programs, a school calendar, cafeteria prices, and supply lists.
http://www.ncagenerals.org/
Headquartered in Decatur, Mississippi, the county seat, the public school system offers a PK-12th grade curriculum through three campuses, Newton County High School, Newton County Middle School, and Newton County Elementary School, as well as career center and alternative school campus, each of which is highlighted here, with teacher profiles, student and faculty handbooks, and a district calendar.
http://www.newton.k12.ms.us/
Completed in 2007 and renovated in 2013, Pierce Castle is located on Chapel Hill Road in Decatur, Mississippi, and is available for rent for weddings, parties, and other events. On the castle grounds, a rental cabin is also available for a minimum two-day rental. Several photographs are featured and contacts are posted on the site.
http://www.piercecastlems.com/
