simpson county (Magee, Mize: public schools, living, store)

[rx1582]

I will be moving to Simpson County soon, 40 acres, no house...any comments, suggestions, warnings?

[An Einnseanair]

My wife lived there for a decade or so, and my ex-wife was born and raised in adjacent Smith county. Very very rural area. Limited access to the outside world (internet). Awesome watermelons from Smith County. If you've only eaten watermelons from a grocery store, then you have no idea how a real melon should taste. Grocery store melons are bred for shippability and longevity (thick skins), not taste. The ones at the festival and sold on the roadside are like sweet nectar.

Watch out for the rural drug trade (meth and marijuana); it's somewhat active in the area. I know at least one person in Magee who raises fighting chickens. Public schools are lacking.

As a general rule stereotypes do not apply to everyone, but they do have a basis in reality. Most of Mississippi has moved on from the racial violence in the mid 20th-century; with such a mixed population the choice is to learn to live with each other or kill each other. In my experience you'll find much more overt racism and segregation in such places as Connecticut, California, and Kansas. But unfortunately, some parts of Simpson and Smith counties live up to the stereotypes. Sullivan's hollow (Smith County) has a notorious history, and my understanding is that it still isn't the safest place for certain people.

[rx1582]

Wow! thanks for the info...God bless!

[KaoCT]

I lived in Magee for a few years and my husband was born and raised there. We were also in Mize (Smith County) for awhile. His family is still there and we go back a few times a year. It was an interesting experience living there.

And yes the watermelons are unbelievable!

[rx1582]

thank you!