Located along the railroad that connects Chicago with New Orleans, McComb is a historic city in southern Mississippi. It was named after Henry Simpson McComb from the New Orleans, Jackson and Great Northern Railroad, who played an influential role in its founding. During the 1960s, McComb was the site of significant events as part of the Civil Rights Movement.
Things to do in McComb
Don’t miss a visit to the McComb Railroad Museum, which occupies the city’s historic railroad depot. Browse the old documents and artefacts on display before admiring the vintage steam engine and rolling stock exhibited outside. Coincide your visit with the arrival of the “City of New Orleans” passenger service, which connects Chicago with New Orleans.
Personal stories, artefacts and artworks are on display at the Black History Gallery, which was established in 2001 to celebrate the region’s African-American heritage. Learn about the contributions of black innovators and browse the old newspapers and magazines on display, together with McComb school yearbooks. The Black History Gallery also highlights the achievements of influential local residents, such as musicians Bo Diddly and Vasti Jackson.
A short drive south of McComb is Percy E Quin State Park, a sprawling recreational space that centres around Lake Tangipahoa. It was established by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and named after a prominent Mississippi politician. Stretch your legs on the 6.5-kilometre-long nature trail, cast a fishing line to see what’s biting or practise your swing on the 18-hole Quail Hollow Golf Course.
Getting around McComb
McComb is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Jackson and Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Trains travel from New Orleans and Chicago to the McComb railway station while buses serve the surrounding region.