3. Mid-Century Boom on Capitol Street
The photo captures West Capitol Street during its absolute peak as Mississippi’s premier shopping and dining district (likely around the 1940s or 1950s, judging by the vintage cars).
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Look closely at the left side, and you can spot awnings for local businesses, including a local cafeteria.
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Further down Capitol Street lay iconic Jackson fixtures like the Mayflower Cafe (open since 1935 and still operating today), big department stores like McRae’s, and thriving theaters.
4. Decline and Modern Rebirth
As suburban shopping malls grew in the 1970s, downtown Jackson suffered a steep decline. The King Edward Hotel closed its doors in 1967 and sat completely abandoned and boarded up for nearly 40 years, serving as a eerie monument to the city's past.
However, the story didn't end there:
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The King Edward Revival: In 2009, a massive $90 million historic restoration project breathed new life into the building. Today, it operates as a Hilton Garden Inn and luxury apartments.
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Union Market: The historic space tucked right under the Mill Street Viaduct next to the hotel has recently been reimagined into "Union Market," a trendy open-air community space featuring local food trucks, music, and pop-up vendor markets.
