The City of Kosciusko has earned statewide recognition for its efforts to preserve and promote local history.
Mayor Tim Kyle announced Friday that the city received the Mississippi Heritage Trust’s Award of Excellence for Preservation Education during the organization’s annual historic preservation conference in Brookhaven.
The award recognizes Kosciusko’s audio-video heritage tour, which was completed in 2024 through funding assistance from the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. The self-guided tour highlights historic sites and notable figures connected to Kosciusko and Attala County through videos, maps, and educational materials available to residents and visitors.
“We were proud to receive this award,” Kyle said during an interview Breezy 103’s The BreckFast Show. “It’s just another great plug for the City of Kosciusko.”
Kyle attended the preservation conference, which featured educational sessions and keynote presentations focused on historic preservation across Mississippi. During the event, he also had the opportunity to discuss Kosciusko’s ongoing efforts to preserve sites connected to local history, including the former home of renowned folk artist L.V. Hull.
The recognition adds to what city officials describe as a successful year for local preservation initiatives. Earlier this year, the Mississippi Humanities Council awarded a grant to support the installation of informational markers at locations featured on the city’s heritage tour.
Kyle said the growing interest in Kosciusko’s history is helping attract attention from across the state.
“People are starting to learn about Kosciusko’s history, and people are really getting excited and want to come look,” he said.
The mayor also encouraged residents to take advantage of the city’s heritage resources, including the audio-video tour, which is available through the city’s website. Printed maps can also be found at Kosciusko City Hall, the visitor center, and the Attala County Chamber of Commerce.
In addition, Kyle reminded residents about the ongoing America 250 Lecture Series being held each Tuesday evening in June at the Attala County Cultural Center across from City Hall. The lectures focus on Mississippi history and feature speakers with expertise in state and local historical topics.
“We encourage everybody to come out on Tuesday nights,” Kyle said. “You’ll learn a lot about Mississippi and your community.”
The city’s latest recognition comes as officials continue working to preserve local landmarks and share the stories that have shaped Kosciusko and Attala County’s history.
Audio: Mayor Tim Kyle on The BreckFast Show
