Hinds Today

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has approved legislation proposed by U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith to designate the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians in Adams County as an affiliated area of the National Park Service (NPS). This bill, known as the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians and Jefferson College Affiliated Areas Establishment Act (S.3241), is now set for consideration by the full Senate before the end of the 118th Congress.

If passed, this legislation would make Grand Village eligible for preservation, protection, and interpretation resources as part of the Natchez National Historical Park. "The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians and Historical Jefferson College show not only the rich history of Natchez but the important roles these places played in the story of the Natchez Indians and later on in the founding of the State of Mississippi," stated Hyde-Smith.

An amendment to S.3241 directs that Jefferson College in Natchez be established as an affiliated area once it meets necessary criteria set by the Secretary of Interior. This follows a National Park Service reconnaissance study that found Jefferson College does not currently meet those criteria. Despite this setback, Hyde-Smith remains optimistic: "I was slightly disheartened at the determination surrounding Historic Jefferson College, but I will not be deterred."

Hyde-Smith introduced S.3241 in November 2023 and supported its passage during a Subcommittee on National Parks hearing in May. The act was among several measures considered by today's committee meeting, including legislation authorizing land transfers from NPS to Mississippi for developments at Vicksburg National Military Park.