Greenville natives include such noteworthy literary and artistic figures as poet William Alexander Percy; novelists Ellen Douglas, Shelby Foote and Walker Percy; Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Hodding Carter; and Muppets creator Jim Henson. During his childhood in nearby Leland, Henson played along the shores of Deer Creek, experiences that led to the creation of one of his most celebrated puppets, Kermit the Frog. The Washington County Tourist Center/Leland Chamber of Commerce, east on US 82/US 278 to 415 S.E. Deer Creek Dr., houses Birthplace of the Frog: An Exhibit of Jim Henson's Delta Boyhood, which features photographs of a youthful Henson, selected works and Muppet memorabilia.
On the west side of town at US 82 and Reed Road is the Mississippi Welcome Center of Greenville, also known as the “River Road Queen.” The structure was built to look like a 19th-century stern-wheeler for an exhibit at the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition; phone (662) 332-2378.
Walking tour maps of the city are available at the visitors bureau.
Visitor Centers
Greenville/Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau 216 S. Walnut St. Greenville, MS 38701. Phone:(662)334-2711 or (800)467-3582
Things to Do
Winterville Mounds