French Colonial cemetery to be dedicated this evening

The Preservation in May celebration continues tonight with a dedication and picnic in the park for the oldest French Colonial cemetery in the south.

The City of Biloxi and the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources will hold a dedication for the French Colonial Cemetery Park beginning at 4 p.m. on the west side of the Biloxi Visitors Center, 1050 Beach Blvd.

The site, also known as the Moran Site, is centered around a weeping angel statue that represents unconditional love in the face of adversity for those seeking peace and a new life.  The park also includes four informational markers, detailing the area and the finding of the remains of 32 French servants.

The park was created with federal funds awarded to the city through the DMR ,and the statue was funded by the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area.

The dedication, which will include a ribbon cutting with DMR Director Jamie Miller, will be followed by a picnic in the park.  Also part of the picnic will be a performance by the band Blackwater Brass, refreshments, and informational displays by the University of Southern Mississippi Archeology/Anthropology, the Land Trust, National Heritage Area, Disability Connection, the Stewardship Program, and the Local History and Genealogy Department of the Biloxi Public Library.

Although the weather forecast calls for a 40 percent chance of rain this afternoon, the event will be held regardless.

“I want to assure you the function will go on rain or shine,” Biloxi Historical Administrator Bill Raymond said.  “In the event of rain, we will move the festivities inside the Biloxi Visitors Center.” 

Also, during this event, Preservation in May organizers will validate “Passport to History,” and those with at least three stamps will receive a commemorative gift.
See the Preservation in May flyer
See images of the French Colonial Cemetery Park

 

News and notes

City Council: The Biloxi City Council meets this afternoon at 1:30 at City Hall.  Among the issues on the agenda is the mayor’s homeless initiative. Also: Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich will proclaim outgoing Keesler Commander Michele Edmondson as a “Biloxian for Life.” To review the agenda and supporting documents, click here.

Shuckers:  The Biloxi Shuckers return to MGM Park this evening, facing the Mobile Bay Bears. First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. For more on the game, and to buy tickets online, click here.

The week that was:  Last week, the Biloxi Fire Department answered 179 calls for service, including seven fire calls and the Community Development Department issued 67 permits, with a total valuation of over $260,000.  To see the reports, click here.

Summer camp:  The Summer Playground and Enrichment Program parent handbook is now available online.  To see the handbook and other information about 2017 summer camp, click here.