Turkey Creek History
Nevertheless, the Turkey Creek story is not over, nor does it have to end tragically. Intelligent urban planning incorporating growth as well as conservation of Turkey Creek’s natural and cultural assets can readily pose a win-win situation for all of the area’s long-term stakeholders. The creek itself is nothing less than Harrison County’s premier inland urban waterway – great for fishing, birding, hiking and rowing. Gulfport, with 80,000 residents and growing, needs a centrally located urban greenway spanning it and enhancing city life for generations to come. In addition, a number of American cities have already proven that pro-active historic preservation, including in historically minority communities, is integral to smart development and sustainable growth. Southern cities like Charleston SC, Birmingham AL and Memphis TN have all learned that promoting the once-neglected histories of their African-American communities and institutions is highly beneficial to the overall quality of modern urban life, including: commerce, education, race relations, attracting and retaining new residents, and expanding local tourism. On the Mississippi coast, the Turkey Creek community and waterway provide equally rich opportunities.
