Batesville
History
Early residents and landowners in Panola County thrived with the help of the river as their source for shipping commodities. In the mid-1850s, the Rev. James W. Bates helped the railroad find the land it needed, and the first train passed through the new Panola Depot in 1857. A year later, as businesses migrated away from the river and towards the railroad, the Panola Depot was renamed Batesville after Rev. Bates.
Batesville Today
Batesville is Panola County’s largest community and one of the two county seats. It is known for its thriving business economy, major retail developments, respected and fully-accredited public and private schools, and active community life. Batesville’s Main Street Historic District is the site of retail shopping, historic homes, and a 125-year old hardware store.