By Roscoe Barnes III
The Natchez Democrat
Published 3:50 pm Friday, November 15, 2024
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Lance Harris speaks during a program at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians (File photo)
Click on image to enlarge. |
NATCHEZ, Miss. -- Lance S.
Harris, sites operation administrator
for the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, is the winner of the
2025 Historic Preservation Award presented by the Natchez Historical Society,
announced Karen Hill, president of the society.
The award honors individuals or organizations who have
made a significant contribution to historic preservation or the study of
history within the Natchez area. It is presented in January at the society’s
annual dinner.
“Lance Harris’ contributions
to the historic preservation and the history of Natchez are unmistakable,” said
Hill. “His work is invaluable, as it helps to broaden our understanding and
appreciation of local history.”
Harris said he was surprised and grateful to learn that
he was named the recipient of the award.
“Natchez is not just a place of regional or national
importance, but of true international significance,” he said. “It has also had
a special place in my heart for a very long time. I am forever grateful for the
embrace of the community for my family ten years ago and the opportunity to
learn and share about Natchez with others during that time. This award is a
treasure and I sincerely appreciate the honor.”
Harris served for eight years as the executive director
of the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians. However, his contribution to
Natchez history extends far beyond his work at the Grand Village.
Preserving and sharing history
MDAH Director Katie Blount said the award is a “fitting
way to recognize Harris for his commitment to ensuring historic stories are
preserved as an endowment for future generations.” She commended him for the
recognition.
“We congratulate Lance on being selected as the recipient
of the 2025 Historic Preservation Award by the Natchez Historical Society,”
Blount said. “Lance’s dedication to preserving and sharing the history of
Mississippi’s multicultural heritage has been an essential asset at MDAH. We’ve
drawn on his deep knowledge and insight over the years – most recently for the
ongoing restoration of Historic Jefferson College and the planned interpretive
center at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians.”
Blount said that Harris is known for making tangible
connections to people and places.
“It’s not surprising to learn he participated in events
celebrating Native American heritage when he was a youth,” she said. “It takes
that kind of keen interest to fully embrace the purpose and mission of
preservation. He’s inspired his colleagues, community leaders and others who
know him through his volunteerism and his thoughtful and collaborative approach
to preservation.”
Since 2016, Harris has served as a commissioner on the
board of the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission (NCPC) that oversees Visit
Natchez. For five years, he led the board as president.
Recognized by friends and colleagues
Harris’ contribution to local history is acknowledged by
colleagues, friends, and elected officials throughout Natchez.
“I can think of no one more deserving of this prestigious
award,” said Mayor Dan Gibson. “Lance has for many years gone above and beyond
to be a true asset to Natchez. Not only has he been such a great caretaker of
the Natchez Grand Village and now contributing such leadership to the
redevelopment of Historic Jefferson College, he has also served voluntarily in
so many ways, from Visit Natchez to our Natchez U.S. Colored Troops Monument
Committee. We salute Lance and congratulate him on this great award.”
Dr. Chuck Borum, chairman and director of the Natchez
Powwow, said Harris deserves a lot of praise and attention. “I have known Lance
since he was a teenager and was participating in events at the Grand Village
site here in Natchez,” Borum said. “He has been a fantastic director with the
Mississippi Department of Archives and History, and he has really become super
involved in many, many activities that promote the City of Natchez, especially
its rich history.”
Harris is a native of Laurel. He and his wife, Nicole,
moved to Natchez with their children in 2015 from Lafayette, Louisiana. Since
their arrival, they have been active in many programs throughout the community.
Harris’ love of history and diverse cultures prompted him
to support Native American tradition for many years. Since the age of 15, he
has traveled to dances and events throughout the country, including the Natchez
Powwow. He said it was this connection that
led to his coming to the Grand Village in 2015. Since then, he has
enjoyed bringing indigenous people of Natchez (pronounced Nahchee) descent back
to the site to share their culture and assist in the new planning at the site.
Scholarship and volunteer service
Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and
Anthropology from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he also
completed 63 hours of graduate studies towards an Applied Cultural Heritage
Studies, Dual Master of Arts in History and Anthropology. Harris earned an
Associate of Arts at Jones County Junior College.
While living in Natchez, Harris published articles and participated
in numerous panel discussions. He also gave scores of presentations on Native
American history, among other topics.
Harris has served on many committees helping volunteer
groups throughout the local community. He currently chairs the Design
Subcommittee for the Natchez U.S. Colored Troops Monument Committee. In this
capacity, he helped to secure a sculptor/designer and a concept of the monument
for the Natchez U.S. Colored Troops.
Harris recently assisted the Natchez Historical Society
with its application for the Prince Ibrahima marker. Since 2021, he has served
on the Natchez Civil Rights Trail Committee which has succeeded in bringing two
Mississippi Freedom Trail markers to Natchez.
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