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Lost in History: Mound Bayou, Mississippi
Written by Ricky Tyus owner of Tyus Tours & Travel
In April, my wife Pamela and I, along with 11 of her relatives, went to Mound Bayou, Mississippi, to find their great-grandmother's house and grave. We uncovered a rich history of Black resilience from the 1800s and learned a lesser-known Black history fact that extends to Toledo.
Picture above is Pamela’s family, me and the Vice Mayor of Mound Bayou Beverly Johnson (standing next to me) and her husband ex-mayor Darnell Johnson of Mound Bayou (red shirt)
Somewhere between Emmett Till and Medgar Evers lies the history of Mound Bayou — a story too often overlooked, yet deeply rooted in resilience, independence, and Black excellence.
Mound Bayou, Mississippi, was not just another Delta town. It was a bold vision. Founded in 1887 by formerly enslaved people, it became one of the first all-Black self-governing communities in the United States. At a time when freedom existed more on paper than in reality, Mound Bayou stood as proof that determination could build something powerful in the middle of adversity.
Walking through its quiet streets today, you might miss what once made it extraordinary. But this town was once thriving with Black-owned businesses, banks, schools, and hospitals. It was a place where Black leadership flourished, and economic independence was not just a dream — it was daily life.
This community became a model of Black self-sufficiency, attracting national attention. Even President Theodore Roosevelt praised it as an example of hope and progress.
Then came the storms of history.
Civil Rights Era Connections
Not far from Mound Bayou, the tragedy of Emmett Till shook the nation in 1955. His brutal murder exposed the violent reality of racism in the Mississippi Delta and became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement.
Just a few years later, Medgar Evers, a tireless advocate for equality, would give his life in the fight for justice. Between these two powerful moments lies a community that quietly carried the weight of hope and survival.
Mound Bayou became a refuge during the Civil Rights era. Activists, organizers, and everyday citizens found safety and support there. The town’s hospital treated injured protesters. Its residents opened doors when others closed their doors. While headlines focused on tragedy, Mound Bayou represented endurance.
Yet somehow, its story faded from mainstream memory.
To read the rest of the story click here
Our Working Vacation
From the moment Pamela and I stepped on the the property, we were greeted with warm smiles and a welcome drink, making us feel right at home. The resort's lush landscaping and pristine beaches created a picturesque backdrop for our days of both work and leisure. Each monrning, we took time to stroll along the shoreline before diving into our projects, finding that the serenity of the island made it easy to stay inspired and focused. Whether we were savoring local cuisine at one of the on-site restaurants or relaxing in the shade of a palm tree, Sandals South Coast offered the perfect balance of productivity and paradise, setting the stage for unforgettable memories and meaningful experiences.
Exotic Blue Mahoe Overwater Villas available at Sandals South Coast
Sandals South Coast in Jamaica covers 50 acres and offers 380 rooms and suites. The resort is siturated on the southwest coast of Jamaica, approximately 90 minutes from Sangster International Airport and 45 minutes from Negril.
We spent three nights/four days at the Sandals South Coast Long Beach Beachfront Club Level Suite, where we appreciated the balcony tub offering views of both the beach and pool. The ocean Breeze combined with a generously sized king bed contributed to a comfortable and relazing experience.
The first evening commenced with a meet and greet session, followed by dinner at Jasmine's, a restaurant specializing in Pan-Asian Cuisine that was exceptional. Later, we attended a live band performance at Retro Live, presented by Sandals entertainment team.
Over the Water Bungalows Over-The-Water Chapel Latitudes Over-The-Water Bar
Sandals South Coast
The following day, we participated in a guided tour of Sandals South Coast, an impressive resort spanning 50 acres. The property features water elements that run throughout the grounds, complemented by a modern design influenced by the ocean's restorative qualities. Expansive tropical landscapes and the sound of waves create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation, with a range of accommodations including Rondoval Villas, Swim-Up Suites, and Overwater Bungalows, all situated in the close proximity to the shoreline. Numerous bars and restaurants, both on land and over the water, contribute to the tranquil environment found along Jamaica's southern coast.
We dined at Eleanor's Restaurant for dinner, which required advance reservations and evening attire; the menu showcased Pan-Caribbean Cuisine. The quality of both food and service was consistently excellent. Following dinner, we attended a Caribbean Carnival Beach Party featuring fire performers, a live band, topical dancers, and organized entertainment, all set on the beachfront.
The atmosphere throughout the evening was lively, with guests dancing and mingling under the stars, which perfectly captured the vibrant spirit of the resort. We found ourselves swept up in the energy, sharing laughs and making new friends, all while enjoying the sounds of the Caribbean. The combination of excellent entertainment and the gentle ocean air made it a night to remember, highlighting the exceptional hospitality that Sandals South Coast is known for.
