We’ve often suggested that Natchez is among the most unique places in the world, and not just because of our quirky residents, unusual traditions and plethora of antebellum mansions.

It’s actually all of those threads and more that weave into the fabric of Natchez.

An incredibly important thread gains some much-needed attention this month as our nation celebrates Black History Month. We hope that over time the special name designation will become less prominent and the nation will simply embrace the historic achievements of blacks in America as what they are — American history.

Few, if any, other places in America enjoy having such an extremely rich history that tells the story of black American history. In Natchez, the black American experience literally spanned great distances from the South’s second-largest slave market before the Civil War to the home of America’s first black U.S. Senator.

Natchez tourism officials are working to make the stories of American black history in Natchez much more prominent and accessible for visitors. We applaud their efforts and the efforts of private individuals who have also labored for years to do the same thing.

Natchez’s history is unique to be sure, but that becomes all the more true when we uncover and make available all the various facets and colors of history that make up Natchez.