Iconic Figures: Discover the People Who Helped Shape Mississippi

Greenville, Mississippi is considered the place that inspired Jim Henson’s creation of Kermit the Frog. Having spent his early years in the area, it seems only fitting that the beloved creator of Sesame Street and the Muppets should have The Birthplace of the Frog: An Exhibit of Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood here. The exhibition was gifted by the Jim Henson Company, which celebrates its 71st anniversary this year, to “the people of Leland” and invites visitors to dive deeper into Muppet history, including the story of Kermit’s Mississippi roots. Henson revolutionised puppetry forever, creating characters that have entertained and inspired generations globally while sharing messages of kindness, humour and morality.

Indianola, Mississippi is home to the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Centre, which celebrates the life and times of the iconic Mississippi native. Known globally for being the King of the Blues, the centre helps visitors to understand how B.B. King shaped music and wider American culture. The museum illustrates a deeper understanding of Mississippi Delta history and the literature, legends and cultural achievements of those who defined Mississippi’s rich musical heritage. King’s birthplace in Berclair makes up part of the Mississippi Blues Trail which visitors can explore throughout the state.