Mississippi Says ‘Happy Trails’ to Faith Hill, Charley Pride + More

The governor of Mississippi has received a bill from state lawmakers which would help establish a trail of historical markers honoring country artists who hail from the state, including Faith Hill, Charley Pride, Jimmie Rodgers and Marty Stuart.

In an effort to boost state tourism, the bill would authorize the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) to research and establish a trail recognizing Mississippi natives and their contributions to country music. The program would be similar to a blues trail that began in the state four years ago.

"This gives people a direction if they are a tremendous country music fan," said Sandy Bynum, communications and advertising manager for MDA's tourism division. "They know they are going to see the sights and it will move them around to see other things our state has to offer."

The bill passed the state House last week, and passed the Senate earlier after Stuart, a native of Philadelphia, Miss., attended a news conference to urge support for the legislation.