Strengths And Weaknesses Of Pontotoc

Pontotoc as a Client
Pontotoc County is known as the “Land of Hanging Grapes” and was originally inhabited by the Chickasaw Indians. It was founded in 1836 by General McMackin, who purchased the land from the Chickasaw Indians on February 9, 1936 for $1,000.00. Since its founding, Pontotoc community has grown tremendously. Pontotoc was declared township in 1836 and its first courthouse was built in 1840. However, the original courthouse was destroyed by fire in 1900. Pontotoc boomed in the next century with electricity being introduced in 1935 and the current library dedicated in 1976 (The Mississippi Genealogy and History Network, 2013). Pontotoc continues to grow and prosper; however, like all communities, Pontotoc has both strengths and weaknesses.
Pontotoc offers many amenities and attractions and is continuing to grow and evolve. The Town Square Museum, which is in the local Post Office, is filled with an arrowhead display, paintings by local artists, and a Chickasaw Indian exhibit. The historical landmark, known as the Lochinvar Mansion, offers tours throughout the year (The Mississippi Genealogy and History

The drop-out rate for Pontotoc is increasingly high and is a direct correlation with the poverty levels in the area. Less education leads to lower paying jobs. The goal of decreasing the poverty levels in Pontotoc should begin with an increased graduation rate. Offering free after school tutoring and mentoring programs would help benefit the residents who have a lower education level. Many times, the children will mimic the parents attitudes and behaviors. Teaching the parents that education is a priority and encouraging students in their pursuit of an education will benefit the community, thus increasing possible secondary education. Offering multiple community scholarships that encourage an involvement in the community may also offer incentives to college