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Pass Christian Rises.org Rebuilding the Lives and Community of Pass Christian, Mississippi |
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An Overview of Pass Christian, Mississippi
Pass Christian traces its early history back to 1699 by the French Explorers d'Iberville and Bienville. As it slowly developed, the small commercial fishing village was incorporated in 1848.
During the mid 1800s Pass Christian thrived as an important trading center. Farmers brought live turkeys, pigs and other livestock, as well as wool and cotton and produce down the Red Creek Road from upstate and back country to the Pass Christian harbor, when it was a major stop on the steamboat route between New Orleans and Mobile.
It was also the heyday of “Watering Places” and resort spas which brought tourists year round including droves of stately families and "nouveau riche" from New Orleans and upstate who established second homes for reasons of health and entertainment.
An 1850s commentary was -- "Pass Christian is celebrated for its pure and salubrious air, the beauty of its site, the elegance of its private mansions, the refinement and wealth of its citizens, its excellent academy for the education of young misses, and its military school; moreover, it is the favorite summer resort for the more opulent Orleanois, many of whom have built tasteful abodes along the shore, facing the lake, where gardens, lawns, porticos, and verandahs, enchant the eye.”
During the early 1900s, northern railroad links to the nearby city of Gulfport caused most businesses to reestablish from Pass Christian to its booming young neighbor at the east. By 1920, Pass Christian’s hotels no longer existed, except for the Inn By the Sea at Henderson Point and the small Grey Castle at the east end. Thus, most of its tourist trade shifted elsewhere. However, the colorful shrimp and oyster industry continued to operate along its coastline. During the 1800’s, Pass found a surge of growth due to its “healthy ozone quality of the area and blending scents of salt breezes and piney woods, plantation owners, investment bankers, and brokers from New Orleans and upper Mississippi, established dual residences at the Pass.” It was the site of the first yacht club of the South established in 1849. Pass Christian, Mississippi happens to be the birthplace of ESPN and ABC Sports anchorperson Robin Roberts. The town is located on the Gulf Coast. Pass Christian is a community of 6,500 people and is about 13 miles from Gulfport, Mississippi.
Pass Christian was a quaint little Gulf of Mexico town that had seen other hurricanes. The stately homes of historical origin were well known in "The Pass", as the locals refer to Pass Christian. The Pass became a national story after August 29, 2005 and as of this date, it is still on the mend. Without the Rotary Club and other fine people and organizations, The Pass would not have experienced it rise from the devastation.
Other information on web sites related to Pass Christian-
(Source: http://pass-christian.publish-now.com/id20.htm)
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