Before the Civil War, Singleton was a slave while Montgomery was a free man of color. After the war, they came together to realize that while emancipation had technically brought them freedom, they still lacked much in the way of true liberty and opportunity. They both believed that the only way African Americans could achieve economic and social equality was to create their own communities and businesses.
During this period following Reconstruction when many Black people were being disenfranchised and stripped of their rights, Singleton sought out land where African-Americans could live independently and own property. He purchased 20,000 acres in the Mississippi Delta, a relatively desolate area at the time, and began creating the community of Mound Bayou.
Singleton set aside some land for public use and sold the remainder to African-American families at affordable prices. The town grew rapidly, and by 1920, Mound Bayou had a population of over 4,000 people, and became one of the most successful African-American communities in the state.
Mound Bayou had its own schools and businesses, including a bank, a newspaper, a cotton gin, and a sawmill. The community also established its own political system and elected its own leaders. For decades, Mound Bayou was a thriving center of African-American culture and commerce, serving as a model for other all-Black communities in the United States.
Despite the challenges faced by African Americans during the Jim Crow era, Mound Bayou managed to hold its ground and maintain its independence. However, like other Black communities in the US, Mound Bayou was not immune to the forces of segregation and discrimination that were prevalent at the time.
It's important to note that even as Mound Bayou progressed and flourished, it still existed in a society with ingrained racism and inequality. While residents fought against these societal constraints and made significant achievements in spite of them, the community continued to face external threats and the challenges that came with systematic oppression.
Over the years, the town has faced periods of economic decline, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century as economic opportunities moved away from rural areas. Nonetheless, Mound Bayou remains an important symbol of African-American self-determination and resilience.
Today, the town of Mound Bayou continues to hold onto its rich history while striving for progress. Efforts have been made to preserve the town's cultural heritage and promote economic development. Mound Bayou continues to be a significant reminder of the struggles and achievements of African-Americans in the pursuit of equality and self-determination.