Lizana, Mississippi

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Lizana is a small, unincorporated rural community in Harrison County, Mississippi, United States. Lizana is part of the Gulfport-Biloxi, Mississippi Metropolitan Statistical Area.

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[edit] Geography

Lizana is located at 30°32′27″N, 89°14′53″W. Total area of this community is unknown as it is unincorporated.

[edit] History

According to Harrison County tax records, Lizana was settled by Henry Sabastian Lizana, from nearby DeLisle in the 1880's. The lumber boom in the area would later contribute to Henry Lizana's success as an entrepreneur. Henry established a general store along with an unofficial satellite branch of the Postal Service near the logging railroad that once ran through the area. In the early 1920's, the logging industry fizzled out and Henry grew older. He would later deed a small amount of his large parcel of land to his 9 children, and what remained was relinquished to the state due to unpaid taxes.

In 1901, Father Rene Sorin also from DeLisle, would oversee the building of the first Catholic mission in the area, St. Ann Catholic Church (http://www.catholic-church.org/stann), on land donated by Henry. The mission fell into disrepair, and in 1937 was relocated to its present day location on Mississippi Highway 53.

[edit] Recreation

One visiting South Mississippi must not miss out on Lizana's Annual Catfish Festival, organized by St. Ann Catholic Church. The festival has a mid 20th century county fair atmosphere with its funnel cakes, rides and softball tournaments. The festival is usually held the last week in May (Memorial Day weekend).

[edit] Carnival

For the past few years, Lizana has hosted its annual Mardi Gras Parade organized by the Lizana Carnival Association. Despite being held in a rural area of Harrison County, the parade is considered to be one of the fastest growing parades as well as the most family-friendly.

[edit] Education

Lizana is served by the Harrison County School District.