Bolton, Mississippi: More Than a Dot on the Map

Mississippi has often been called one big small town—a place where hospitality is a way of life and charm runs deep. Scattered across the Magnolia State are dozens of quiet communities, rich in history and personality, waiting to be discovered. One of those places is Bolton. Tucked away in Hinds County, just 18 miles from Jackson and 25 miles from Vicksburg, Bolton might not make many headlines, but it certainly deserves recognition.

Founded in 1830, Bolton was built by early Italian immigrants who established it as a farming community. Back then, Mississippi Highway 18 served as a lifeline, bringing travelers straight through downtown. For years, local businesses thrived on that steady stream of traffic. But the arrival of Interstate 20 rerouted the flow of visitors, and many of those mom-and-pop shops struggled to stay afloat.

Despite that shift, Bolton has never lost its spirit. Its people remain rooted in tradition, proud of their heritage and always ready to welcome newcomers. Though small in size, the town has produced a long list of notable figures. Blues legends Bo Carter and Charley Patton once called Bolton home. So did jazz musician Walter Vinson, singer Lucille Jenkins Spann, Olympian Calvin Smith, NFL player Cleveland Green, and author Alan Huffman. The town also gave rise to actress Amia Edwards and Congressman Bennie Thompson, who previously served as Bolton’s mayor before becoming chair of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security.

Leading the town today is Mayor Lawrence Butler, who has held the office since 1980. Originally from Edwards, he moved to Bolton after marrying a local woman, and has since become the longest-serving mayor in Mississippi. His commitment to the town is a reflection of its overall character—steady, loyal, and deeply rooted.

At the center of Bolton’s downtown sits a business that has become part of its identity: Gaddis and McLaurin Mercantile. Founded in 1871 by Dr. John Gaddis and George C. McLaurin, the store originally served as a supplier for local farmers. Over the years, it has grown into a one-stop shop for almost anything—seed, feed, hardware, lumber, clothing, and more. Walking through the store today feels like stepping back in time. Original wood floors creak underfoot, antique decor lines the walls, and customer service is still delivered with a handshake and a smile. In many ways, Gaddis and McLaurin isn’t just a store—it’s the heartbeat of Bolton.

But Bolton offers more than history and hardware. Since 2021, B-Town Steakhouse has been serving up one of the best meals in the region. Open only Thursday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., the restaurant has built a loyal following with its cozy atmosphere and flavorful menu. A must-try is Emily’s Famous Pimento Cheese served with buttery crackers, followed by a Certified Angus Beef steak cooked to your liking. Reservations are welcomed but not required, and the experience is worth the drive.

So next time you're traveling down I-20, consider taking Exit 27. Spend a little time in Bolton. Visit the mercantile, enjoy a steak dinner, and take in the quiet strength of a town that’s still standing tall despite the odds. Small towns like Bolton aren’t just a part of Mississippi—they're the heart of it.