Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi

Jefferson Davis County Cities, Towns & Places

Bassfield, a small town located in Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi, holds a rich yet understated history rooted in the rural traditions of the Deep South. Though modest in size, Bassfield has played a meaningful role in the cultural and agricultural development of the region.

Early Settlement and Origins

Bassfield traces its origins to the 19th century, during a time of westward expansion and rural development in Mississippi. Like many small towns in the state, it began as a farming community. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Choctaw, before European-American settlers moved in after Mississippi achieved statehood in 1817.

The town was named after a local family, the Basses, who were among the early settlers. They were instrumental in establishing the first businesses and promoting the development of the community. The fertile soil of the region supported cotton farming, which quickly became the backbone of the local economy. Railroads and timber also contributed to Bassfield’s growth in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Incorporation and Growth

Bassfield was officially incorporated in 1902. Its location in Jefferson Davis County, which had been carved out of surrounding counties in 1906, placed it near the geographic center of the Piney Woods region of Mississippi. The town thrived as a small but close-knit community, with general stores, schools, churches, and a post office serving as social and economic hubs.

Farming remained central to life in Bassfield throughout the 20th century, particularly the cultivation of cotton, corn, and later poultry. The town’s small population remained steady for many years, with families often staying in the area for generations.

Cultural Legacy and Notable Figures

Despite its small size, Bassfield has produced several notable athletes and individuals. It is particularly known for its strong high school football tradition. Bassfield High School, before its consolidation into Jefferson Davis County High School in 2017, was a powerhouse in Mississippi high school football, winning multiple state championships. The town has produced several NFL players, including Cornell Armstrong, A.J. Moore, and C.J. Moore—a remarkable feat for such a small community.

Education in Bassfield

Education in Bassfield, as in much of rural Mississippi, began with small, often church-affiliated or community-built schools in the late 1800s. Early schools were typically one-room schoolhouses with a single teacher covering all grades. Schooling was seasonal—children often attended only when they weren’t needed on the farm.

By the 20th century, Bassfield had developed a formal school system, with Bassfield High School (BHS) eventually becoming a cornerstone of the community. BHS gained statewide fame not just for academics, but especially for football. The Bassfield Yellowjackets became one of the most dominant programs in Mississippi Class 2A football, winning multiple state championships in the 2000s and 2010s.

The school was a source of pride and unity in the town. Pep rallies, homecoming games, and community events were all part of the social fabric. Despite the town's small size, the school regularly sent athletes to college programs and even the NFL—a testament to the talent and support cultivated locally.

In 2017, Bassfield High was merged with Prentiss High School (from a neighboring town) to form Jefferson Davis County High School, located near the county line. The move was controversial for some residents, but the newly formed school continued the athletic tradition, immediately winning a state football title its first year.

Historic Churches

Some of the longstanding churches in and around Bassfield include:

Bassfield Baptist Church – One of the oldest churches in town, serving the community for generations with a traditional Southern Baptist message.

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church – A predominantly African-American congregation that’s been a center of worship and community organization.

Bassfield United Methodist Church – Known for its outreach and involvement in community life.

Churches weren’t just spiritual centers—they often doubled as gathering places, event spaces, and informal town halls.

During the civil rights era, African-American churches in Bassfield and nearby communities served as places of strength and planning in the face of segregation and social inequality.

Challenges and Resilience

Like many rural towns in Mississippi, Bassfield has faced economic hardships, population decline, and the consolidation of schools and services in recent decades. In April 2020, a devastating EF4 tornado struck Bassfield and surrounding areas, causing widespread destruction and claiming several lives. The disaster was a major blow to the town but also brought out strong community resilience and support from neighboring regions.

Today

Today, Bassfield remains a quiet town with a population of just a few hundred people. It serves as a reminder of Mississippi’s rural roots and the enduring spirit of its people. While the town has changed with the times, its legacy of community, agriculture, and athletic excellence continues to be a point of pride for current and former residents.

Bassfield is located at the intersection of State Highways 42 and 35, about 30 miles northwest of Hattiesburg and about 60 miles sout-souteast of Jackson.