Perry County is located to the southeast of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It is rural in context, with the town of New Augusta as the county seat. Perry County was organized in 1820 as the state’s 15^th county. The area is named for Commodore Oliver Perry, a naval hero of the War of 1812. Augusta, or Old Augusta, was the most important settlement in the piney woods east of the Pearl river during its early days. It had been named a land office in 1822, which gave it political importance. In 1903, county leaders decided to move the county seat two miles south near the depot of the Mobile, Jackson, & Kansas City Railroad. The new town became known as New Augusta.

Quality of Life

There is room for growth and prosperity in this region of the piney woods of South Mississippi, which boasts mild winters and warm summers. With the City of Hattiesburg and the University of Southern Mississippi only 15 miles away, there is a vast amount of sporting and cultural events offered throughout the year.

Recreational opportunities are facilitated by the proximity of the DeSoto National Forest, Lake Perry, Leaf River Game Management Area, Moody’s Landing, Janice Landing, Fairley Bridge Landing, Cypress Creek Landing, and Sportsman’s Lake.

Business Factors

Primary employment sectors in Perry County from 1995-1999 were manufacturing, government, wholesale/retail trade, and public education.

Transportation routes in Perry County provide adequate access to urban centers in the region. U.S. Highway 98 runs east and west throughout the entire county, enabling a direct route to the City of Hattiesburg to the West and the City of Mobile, Alabama, to the southeast.

Education

Perry County has two school districts to serve the county: Perry County School District and Richton School District. Perry County Schools are optimistic in educating all children in a safe environment that is conductive to learning. Also, they are committed to preparing all children for the challenges of the 21st Century.

Demographics