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NATCHEZ – Lance S. Harris, sites operation administrator for the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, is the winner of the 2025 Historic Preservation Award presented by the Natchez Historical Society, announced Karen Hill, president of the society.

The award honors individuals or organizations who have made a significant contribution to historic preservation or the study of history within the Natchez area. It is presented in January at the society’s annual dinner.

“Lance Harris’ contributions to the historic preservation and the history of Natchez are unmistakable,” said Hill. “His work is invaluable, as it helps to broaden our understanding and appreciation of local history.”

Harris said he was surprised and grateful to learn that he was named the recipient of the award.

“Natchez is not just a place of regional or national importance, but of true international significance,” he said. “It has also had a special place in my heart for a very long time. I am forever grateful for the embrace of the community for my family ten years ago and the opportunity to learn and share about Natchez with others during that time. This award is a treasure and I sincerely appreciate the honor.”

Harris served for eight years as the executive director of the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians. However, his contribution to Natchez history extends far beyond his work at the Grand Village.

Preserving and sharing history

MDAH Director Katie Blount said the award is a “fitting way to recognize Harris for his commitment to ensuring historic stories are preserved as an endowment for future generations.” She commended him for the recognition.

“We congratulate Lance on being selected as the recipient of the 2025 Historic Preservation Award by the Natchez Historical Society,” Blount said. “Lance’s dedication to preserving and sharing the history of Mississippi’s multicultural heritage has been an essential asset at MDAH. We’ve drawn on his deep knowledge and insight over the years – most recently for the ongoing restoration of Historic Jefferson College and the planned interpretive center at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians.”

Blount said that Harris is known for making tangible connections to people and places.

“It’s not surprising to learn he participated in events celebrating Native American heritage when he was a youth,” she said. “It takes that kind of keen interest to fully embrace the purpose and mission of preservation. He’s inspired his colleagues, community leaders and others who know him through his volunteerism and his thoughtful and collaborative approach to preservation.”

Since 2016, Harris has served as a commissioner on the board of the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission (NCPC) that oversees Visit Natchez. For five years, he led the board as president.

Recognized by friends and colleagues

Harris’ contribution to local history is acknowledged by colleagues, friends, and elected officials throughout Natchez.

“I can think of no one more deserving of this prestigious award,” said Mayor Dan Gibson. “Lance has for many years gone above and beyond to be a true asset to Natchez. Not only has he been such a great caretaker of the Natchez Grand Village and now contributing such leadership to the redevelopment of Historic Jefferson College, he has also served voluntarily in so many ways, from Visit Natchez to our Natchez U.S. Colored Troops Monument Committee. We salute Lance and congratulate him on this great award.”

Dr. Chuck Borum, chairman and director of the Natchez Powwow, said Harris deserves a lot of praise and attention. “I have known Lance since he was a teenager and was participating in events at the Grand Village site here in Natchez,” Borum said. “He has been a fantastic director with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, and he has really become super involved in many, many activities that promote the City of Natchez, especially its rich history.”

Harris is a native of Laurel. He and his wife, Nicole, moved to Natchez with their children in 2015 from Lafayette, Louisiana. Since their arrival, they have been active in many programs throughout the community.

Harris’ love of history and diverse cultures prompted him to support Native American tradition for many years. Since the age of 15, he has traveled to dances and events throughout the country, including the Natchez Powwow.  He said it was this connection that led to his coming to the Grand Village in 2015.  Since then, he has enjoyed bringing indigenous people of Natchez (pronounced Nahchee) descent back to the site to share their culture and assist in the new planning at the site.

Scholarship and volunteer service

Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Anthropology from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he also completed 63 hours of graduate studies towards an Applied Cultural Heritage Studies, Dual Master of Arts in History and Anthropology. Harris earned an Associate of Arts at Jones County Junior College.

While living in Natchez, Harris published articles and participated in numerous panel discussions. He also gave scores of presentations on Native American history, among other topics.

Harris has served on many committees helping volunteer groups throughout the local community. He currently chairs the Design Subcommittee for the Natchez U.S. Colored Troops Monument Committee. In this capacity, he helped to secure a sculptor/designer and a concept of the monument for the Natchez U.S. Colored Troops.

Harris recently assisted the Natchez Historical Society with its application for the Prince Ibrahima marker. Since 2021, he has served on the Natchez Civil Rights Trail Committee which has succeeded in bringing two Mississippi Freedom Trail markers to Natchez.