Welcome to Hattiesburg, also known as "The Hub City" because it connects most of the other major cities in the region. I went out sightseeing the other day with a friend and learned that the city was named after the wife of a surveyor who came from one of the railroads in the late 1800's. Hattie Hardy was her name. One of the major thoroughfares in town is called Hardy St.The city is roughly 60,000 people, not including around 12,000 college students. I am finding it a wonderful town with all the regular attractions of a medium size town. There is a pretty active urban development initiative here to bring life back to the "downtown" area. There is some great archetecture and a wonderful theater, which I had the privelege to get a private tour of while we were walking around taking pictures. It has recently been completely renovated and is very impressive.
The other great feature of the town is the railroads. There is a beautiful train depot that has recently been renovated as well, and the depot brings a wonderful feeling of travel, exploration, and commerce to the town.
If you're ever in the area, whether passing through, or passing nearby, please stop for some sweet tea or even a warm bed. Would love to visit with you for a bit.