The revitalization of Leland began several years ago, when many locally owned businesses proceeded to open or reopen their doors in this very unique Delta town. Buildings were renovated and remodeled creating historically accurate venues for present day commercialization. These new businesses combined with previously existing ones make the shopping, dining, and living environment of Leland stand out among other small Delta towns. This vibrant atmosphere is reminiscent of years gone by and is the beginning of a new era in downtown Leland and the surrounding area.
Leland offers a vast shopping experience including gift shops, design expertise, exercise studios, antiques, ladies clothing, children’s clothing, a bookstore, a flower shop, groceries, and other unique markets. Dining options include restaurants, cafes, bistros, and coffee shops. Leland also claims four museums, two pharmacies, multiple health clinics, three banks, many churches, and several attorneys and realtors. Scattered throughout downtown Leland are bright and beautiful hand-painted murals depicting various famous local scenes and Blues artists making the visual aspects of the downtown both creative and informative.
Only two miles exist between Leland and its neighboring sister-community, Stoneville. Stoneville is home to additional assets in the area–the largest Agricultural Research Center in the nation, the USDA ARS; the Delta Research and Extension Center, or DREC, a research branch of Mississippi State University; Delta Health Alliance, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization developed to improve health services in the Mississippi Delta; and Delta Council, a comprehensive committee-based system that represents all phases of the Delta’s economy. These assets attract research scientists,
medical personnel, conservationists, community leaders, and numerous other professionals from within and outside the borders of the United States.
Leland’s Military Wall of Honor is a project near completion in front of the town’s library. This “Wall” will honor Leland’s past, present and future military members from all branches of service who have lived in the Leland School District and served honorably. The Military Wall of Honor is Leland’s dignified and lasting memorial to those who have
served.
The future of Leland is bright! The idiom, “many hands make light work” describes the vibrancy behind this small Delta town. Multiple families and individuals invest their time and talents to make Leland the very best small town community–currently and for generations to come! Locals are quick to quote the words sung by Leland’s native son, Kermit, “I’m right where I belong!”
