Page 120 - South Mississippi Living - Ocotber, 2022

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story by Victoria Snyder
hen you think of the Gulf Coast, you probably think of the sunshine and being able to get a great tan on the beach. Or appreciating the beautiful sunsets while you eat fantastic food. On the flip side, you may also think of how the weather seems to turn
on a dime, from that beautiful sunshine to a powerful thunderstorm. And of course, nobody can think of this area without thinking of hurricanes.
Last but not least, you may think about the great people of the Coast. The ones that chat with each other while in line at the store, or bring food to each other in times of need.
Today, I’ll be telling you about some remarkable men from our beloved Gulf Coast. From skilled artists, to impressive athletes, to great musicians, the Coast has helped to produce men that have gone on to do wonderful things. Whether they grew up here, went to school here, or moved here later in life, here are some historic men of the Coast:
Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville
Have you ever wondered why D’Iberville (the city) is named that? This 17th century explorer is the reason. He was in charge of finding a location for the capital of French Louisiana and oversaw the construction of Fort Maurepas. The location is believed to be somewhere along the back bays of Biloxi and Ocean Springs.
Ocean Springs’s Fort Maurepas Park honors d’Iberville’s efforts.
George Edgar Ohr
This self-proclaimed “Mad Potter of Biloxi” was not appreciated during his time. It wasn’t until over fifty years after his death that
art collectors began to take interest in his work. Known for his abstract and almost sculptural pottery, people viewed his pottery as not functional and too expensive. He always knew his work would be appreciated after his death, and now you can
view some of his collection (along with other great local art) at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art.
120 | October 2022
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