Mississippi Constitution, 20-star U.S. flag arrives in Hattiesburg

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The Mississippi Department of Archives and History brought over some cool artifacts from Jackson to share with the Pine Belt.

Mississippi's 1817 Constitution and a rare 20-star 1818 United States flag are being displayed at the Hattiesburg Public Library.

Historic research specialist, Sarah Torgeson said, "The Constitution is the document that made us a state, so it's the ultimate symbol of our statehood, which of course, this is our bicentennial year. And, the 20-star flag is very significant because it symbolizes our admittance to the union 200 years ago."

The 20-star flag was only a part of the U.S. for one year, because Illinois became the 21st state a year after Mississippi became a state, which ultimately led to a 21-star flag in 1819.

"It's important for us to know our history as members of a state. It lets us know where we've been, and help us think about where we want to go," said Torgeson.

Mississippi's 1817 Constitution and the 20-star United States flag from 1818 will be displayed Thursday at the Hattiesburg Public Library from 8-5 p.m.