Old Augusta Historic Site

Founded along the Leaf River in 1812, Augusta became an early center of government and trade in what is now Perry County, serving as county seat from 1818 to 1906. Its prominence was strengthened by a United States General Land Office, and in 1833 it hosted one of the first public sales of Choctaw cession lands. In the 19th century, the town was also the scene of notable public hangings, including those of James Copeland and Davis Hawthorne. Augusta declined after a railroad bypassed it, prompting development at New Augusta. Archaeological study later identified its former districts, and the site also reflects later industrial rail use.

Mississippi · United States