The city of Jackson earned the nickname of Chimneyville during the Civil War, a testament to its condition after being burned three times by marauding Union General William T. Sherman: Each time, the wooden homes would be burned to the ground, with only the stone chimneys left standing. From the ashes of war, however, a legacy of talented craftsmanship arose, and the fruits of this tradition are on daily display here. This venue sells handmade crafts by local artisans.

Built and maintained by the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi, this facility along the Natchez Trace has offered exhibits and live demonstrations of area folk artists for more than 25 years. Of particular interest are the works of native Choctaw Indians, whose leather goods, pewter ware, and basketry are as functional as they are beautiful. On Saturdays, from spring through fall, Choctaw basket weavers, wood carvers, quilters and more are on hand throughout the day to demonstrate their skills.

Dr. Alexander has been a contributor to American letters for over fifty years. The author of such prize-winning books as Jubilee and For My People, Dr. Alexander is so widely respected that the city of Jackson named the street on which she lives in her honor, as well as the Jackson Public Library. The research center, located on Jackson State campus, is a focal point for the ongoing quest for racial harmony and equality. A visit to this engaging shrine to equality is an eye-opening experience for people of all races.

Canton, Mississippi is a quaint, historic town located about 25 miles north of the state capitol, Jackson. Canton is a great day trip which includes movie museums, antique shopping, and historic homes. Also to be enjoyed is the Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show. Canton also features many quality restaurants and hotels, in case you decide to extend your day trip to an overnight.

Christ United Methodist Church is a perfect example of display of love towards children of God. It has become a leader in supplying relief to flood hit areas in North Jackson. The church has become a distribution center for relief materials and also sends numerous work teams to aid recovery efforts. There are more than 400 events scheduled every year for the youth, the poor, the children and the society at large. Recently, they organized a 5km run and the profits from the same were utilized for charity purposes.

Organized in Jackson in 1846, the first Catholic Church was burned by General William Tecumseh Sherman in 1863. A second structure suffered a similar fate; the current cathedral was begun in 1897 and dedicated three years later. As the seat of the archdiocese, St. Peter's is home to the area's Catholic bishop and serves as general headquarters for Catholics in the state. Daily and weekly masses are held, with confessional services taking place every Saturday.

In an increasingly MTV-friendly world, it is nice to know that the love of fine art still has its place. This refined gallery is well placed among the upscale boutiques and specialty shops of Old Canton Road, and features an impressive collection of fine art. Also providing custom design and an assortment of sale pieces for the home, this store is a haven of traditional culture that has stood the test of time.

Local artists extraordinaire Karl and Mildred Wolfe have long thrilled Jackson with their takes on the area through various artistic mediums. Among the displays, you will find original artwork from the Wolfes, plus limited edition prints, hand-crafted furniture, and hand-carved mirrors.

Well-known gallery owner Mike Nunnery likes what he does for a living, and it shows in the way he picks his gallery artists. Spirited and friendly works by many of Jackson's favorite local artists show up here. Much of the work is very affordable. In warm weather be sure to take a quick peek at Mike's own artwork, which is his rambling flower garden out back.

As the name suggests, Morningbell Records & Studios is a music venue-cum-music shop. It stocks and sells second hand CDs, vinyl records and cassettes too. Apart from that, it also hosts concerts that feature local artists and bands. Most of the events are 18 and above; for more details check website.