The first major European expedition into the territory that became
Mississippi was that of Hernando de Soto, who passed through in 1540. The
French, in April 1699, established the first European settlement at Fort
Maurepas (also known as Old Biloxi), built at Ocean Springs and settled by
Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville. In 1716, the French founded Natchez on the
Mississippi River (as Fort Rosalie); it became the dominant town and trading
post of the area. The French called the greater territory "New Louisiana".
With more than 153 desirable courses to choose from within the state’s five
diverse regions, many designed by the game’s legends, Mississippi makes for
an incredibly unique golf experience. It’s no wonder the state is among the
nation’s top golf destinations.