The Mississippi Rural Center was dedicated on February 9, 1949, and established with a $100,000 gift from the Women's Society of Christian Services of the Methodist Church. Created to provide opportunities for African American families, the center offered religious, social, medical, and educational programs to the community of Lampton and surrounding areas. It was first directed by Rev. Isaac C. and Athelda Pittman, both graduates of Alcorn A & M College.