Named after a nearby Indian mound where Native Americans performed ceremonies and escaped rising waters, Mound Bayou was founded in 1887 by ex-slaves Isaiah T. Montgomery and Benjamin T. Green. Montgomery’s home still stands nearby as a monument to the enterprise of newly freed slaves; the structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

On the grounds of Mound Bayou’s City Hall is a carved wooden plaque depicting famous black Americans.

Mound Bayou is also home to creative artisans at Peter’s Pottery. Peter’s Pottery is the only place in the world using bayou Blue clay. Started in 1998 by the four Woods brothers, the studio has produced pottery for fans worldwide.