A significant gathering of alumni from Meridian High School celebrated their 50th graduation anniversary this weekend, drawing attention not only to their shared memories but also to the rich history and culture of Meridian, Mississippi. A highlighted destination for attendees and their young relatives was the Mississippi Children’s Museum located on 22nd Avenue, which opened just a few years ago and has quickly become a key attraction in the area.
The museum operates under the engaging motto, “We take fun seriously!” This reflects its commitment to blending entertainment with education. Visitors can explore a variety of interactive exhibits that promote learning through play, including building blocks, a climbing maze, and garden paths. According to Executive Director Barbara Zeller, the museum’s approach effectively combines rich content with enjoyable activities, making it a compelling destination for families.
Before entering, guests are greeted by a striking steel sculpture from local artist Cecelia Moseley. This piece, which features a collection of jumbled letters, addresses the challenges of dyslexia. Having been diagnosed with the condition herself, Moseley uses her art to raise awareness and support for others facing similar challenges.
Inside the museum, guests encounter the “Susie the Steam Engine” and “Jimmie the Boxcar” exhibits, which celebrate Meridian’s historical significance as a railroad hub. The displays feature panels dedicated to Susie Glover, a remarkable African-American porter known for her songs announcing train destinations, as well as Jimmie Rodgers, a legendary musician and former railroad worker. These exhibits invite visitors to learn more about these historical figures, with questions such as “Why did Susie sing?” and “Who was Elsie?” prompting deeper exploration.
The museum also showcases the story of the Key Brothers, who achieved a flight endurance record in Meridian. Their exhibit includes video footage of their historic flight and an actual flight helmet worn by Fred Key, offering a tangible connection to this achievement.
One of the museum’s creative spaces, “Our Lady’s Playhouse,” is currently themed for Halloween, featuring decorations like a large black spider and web. This playful area draws inspiration from the Grand Opera House, which opened in the late 1800s and is now part of the MSU Riley Center complex. Another exhibit recreates the iconic Red Hot truck stop, a significant landmark in Meridian during the latter half of the 20th century, complete with the bold Red Hot sign still visible near I-20.
The museum takes visitors further back in time with a display of fossilized shark teeth discovered near the Red Hot site, highlighting that sharks once swam in the region over 55 million years ago. Additionally, children can engage with a water play table that represents Dunn’s Falls, a former grist mill site now a park attraction along the Chunky River.
A section titled “Wonder Box” features profiles of notable inventors and entrepreneurs from Meridian, including Dr. Leslie Vaughn Rush Sr., who made groundbreaking advancements in bone repair, and E.F. Young Jr., a barber who founded a well-known African American hair products company.
The museum has gained recognition for its engaging exhibits, drawing approximately 60,000 visitors annually, as Zeller noted. This level of engagement not only enhances local tourism but also fosters educational opportunities for children and their families. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, welcoming visitors to explore and learn.
A heartfelt acknowledgment goes to those who have supported the Mississippi Children’s Museum, whether through donations, memberships, or volunteering. The partnership with Heartland Scenic Studio, an exhibit design firm based in Omaha, has also played a pivotal role in creating a space that not only entertains but educates.
Families visiting Meridian are encouraged to explore this vibrant institution, ensuring that young ones and their educators alike benefit from the rich tapestry of local history presented in an engaging and accessible manner.
