submitted by and photos by Gerald & Tammy Westmoreland
Lorman, Mississippi, situated in Jefferson County, boasts a rich history that reflects the broader narrative of the region and the state. From its origins as a rural community to its role in education and agriculture, Lorman has played a significant part in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Mississippi.
The history of Lorman traces back to the early 19th century when European settlers began establishing homesteads in the area. Agriculture, particularly cotton cultivation, became the cornerstone of the local economy. Large plantations dotted the landscape, relying on enslaved labor to produce cash crops for export. The fertile soils of the Mississippi Delta facilitated prosperous agricultural ventures, shaping the character of Lorman and the surrounding region.
Following the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Lorman, like many Southern communities, underwent a period of Reconstruction. Freedmen and women sought to establish their livelihoods as independent farmers, facing both opportunities and challenges in the post-war era. Despite the promise of emancipation, African Americans in Lorman and throughout Mississippi encountered persistent racial discrimination and economic disenfranchisement.
Education emerged as a crucial institution for social mobility and empowerment in Lorman and the broader African American community. In 1875, Alcorn University was founded in Lorman as the first land-grant institution for African Americans in the United States. Originally named Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, the institution provided educational opportunities for formerly enslaved individuals and their descendants. Over time, Alcorn University expanded its academic offerings and became a beacon of learning and advancement for African Americans in Mississippi and beyond.
During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, Lorman became a focal point for activism and resistance against racial segregation and discrimination. Students and community members at Alcorn University participated in sit-ins, marches, and voter registration drives to challenge Jim Crow laws and demand equal rights and opportunities. The activism and courage of individuals in Lorman and across Mississippi contributed to the eventual dismantling of legal segregation and the advancement of civil rights legislation.
In the decades since the Civil Rights Movement, Lorman has continued to evolve as a vibrant community with a diverse population and economy. While agriculture remains an important sector, the town has also seen growth in education, healthcare, and small businesses. Alcorn University, now Alcorn State University, continues to thrive as a center of academic excellence and cultural heritage, serving as a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Lorman.
Overall, the history of Lorman reflects the enduring legacy of perseverance, struggle, and progress that characterizes Mississippi's complex and dynamic past.
Lorman is on US Hwy 61 about nine miles north of Fayette. GPS: 31.820556, -91.050000
Please share your Jefferson County, Mississippi genealogy and history information, send an email to msghn@outlook.com