LONG BEACH, Mississippi (WLOX) – “We were given a land because we pledged our allegiance to the King of Spain,” said one artist.
In town, a history lesson on the origins of Long Beach was offered extensively, with a bit of fun in between.
“I think they were just acting like babies. He wants me and he’s a big fat jerk,” said one of the actors.
The town celebrated its 119th birthday on Saturday with food and games, but the main attraction was a historic home that had been part of the town for years: the historic Greenvale House.
It took some time to rebuild the house and return it to its former glory, and Mayor George Bass said it was a community effort.
“Mrs. Paola was instrumental in getting this house to where it is today. She helped get a grant to re-roof it after Katrina,” said Mayor Bass. “It was moved from Railroad Street to this current location.”
Guests had the opportunity to explore the city’s oldest house and learn about the process of its restoration.
Mayor Bass says the house is just a small example of the rich history that has shaped Long Beach.
“The long red radishes when we were known as the radish capital of the world. They were flavorful radishes that were served in the town pubs all over the United States and were shipped from here,” said Mayor Bass. “Before that, the long beans and green beans were shipped. So we evolved from a vegetable growing community to what we are today.”
When the mayor looks back on the city’s history with the citizens, he says he can’t help but feel that his city has a rich past and is on its way to a prosperous future.
“We have one of the top-rated fire departments here, a great city-owned library, and the USM campus. Our little town has a lot to offer and the history it has created has brought us to where we are today. I just hope we can build on that,” said Mayor Bass.
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