Olive Branch, MS
- About the City
- Landmarks
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Olive Branch, a charming city in DeSoto County, Mississippi, is a historic suburb of Memphis, Tennessee, known for its small-town feel and rapid growth.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Olive Branch, Mississippi.
- Administrative Center: Olive Branch is a city located in DeSoto County, Mississippi. It operates under a mayor-council form of government .
- Regional Context: Olive Branch is a principal city within the Memphis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). This region spans three counties in southwest Tennessee, five counties in northwest Mississippi, and one county in eastern Arkansas. It is the sixth most populous city in the state of Mississippi . DeSoto County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Mississippi, largely due to its proximity to Memphis .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: Before becoming Olive Branch, the settlement went by two other names. It was first known as "Cowpens" in the early 1840s and was later renamed "Watson's Crossroads" in 1842 .
- Origin of Current Name: The name "Olive Branch" was adopted in 1846 when a post office was established. It was suggested by Frances Wilson Blocker, a descendant of one of the town's founders, to symbolize the biblical story of a dove bringing an olive branch to Noah, signifying peace and new beginnings .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year of Foundation: The area was first settled by European-Americans around 1836. The community was officially incorporated as a town on May 1, 1874 .
- Age: As of 2026, Olive Branch is 152 years old.
- Founders: The city's "Father" is considered Milton Blocker, who, along with Stephen Flinn, was among the first permanent settlers. Blocker purchased the land from Chickasaw Chief Lush-Pun-Tubby in 1836 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 34°57′37″N 89°50′30″W .
- Location: Olive Branch is located in northeastern DeSoto County, less than 5 miles (8 km) from the Mississippi-Tennessee state line. It is a suburb situated just southeast of Memphis, Tennessee .
- Elevation: The city's center is at an elevation of 118 meters (387 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Olive Branch is primarily a residential suburb and a growing commercial hub for DeSoto County. Its economy is closely tied to its role as a bedroom community for Memphis, with many residents commuting for work . Key local economic sectors include:
- Logistics and Distribution: The city has attracted major distribution and fulfillment centers, such as the Amazon Fulfillment Center-MEM6, due to its strategic location near major highways and Memphis .
- Retail and Local Commerce: A significant portion of local employment is in retail, healthcare, and services, catering to the growing residential population along thoroughfares like Goodman Road .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the population of Olive Branch is 39,711 .
- Population Class: Olive Branch is a medium-sized city and the sixth-largest city in Mississippi. It is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the Memphis metropolitan area .
"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)
Olive Branch offers visitors a slice of authentic Southern charm while being just minutes from the excitement of Memphis. Its historic Old Towne, with its walking trail, antique shops, and the landmark Wesson House, provides a peaceful contrast to the city's rapid growth. It's a place where you can experience community festivals, explore a world-renowned bonsai nursery, and enjoy the quiet comfort of a suburban retreat .
Landmarks
Wesson House
- Full Name: Wesson House.
- Year of Construction and Architect: Built around 1875 by Ben F. Wesson, Olive Branch's first mayor. The architect is unknown .
- Historical Significance: The Wesson House is one of only three Dedicated Mississippi Landmarks in DeSoto County. Ben Wesson, who built the house, served as the town's first mayor from 1875 to 1877 and later as postmaster . The property was gifted to the City of Olive Branch in 1991 by Wesson's descendants to be used as a museum .
- Location: It is situated at the southwest corner of the Pigeon Roost Avenue and Goodman Road intersection, anchoring the southern end of Olive Branch Old Towne .
- Unique Features: The house is a well-preserved example of a mid-1870s residence. It is not open to the public regularly, but the City Beautiful Commission hosts a annual Christmas Open House, allowing visitors to see it decorated in its holiday splendor .
Olive Branch Old Towne
- Full Name: Olive Branch Old Towne.
- Description: This is the historic heart of the city, offering a charming blend of the past and present .
- Features and Activities: Visitors can enjoy a Historic Walking Trail that tells the stories of the area, browse through retail and antique shops, and view the "Arts in the Alley" exhibit. The area also hosts numerous community events, including Hootenanny music nights in the spring and fall, free summer music concerts, and Spring and Fall festivals .
- Location: Centered around the intersection of Pigeon Roost Road and Cockrum Street (Old Highway 78).
Brussel's Bonsai Nursery
- Full Name: Brussel's Bonsai.
- Description: A true hidden gem, Brussel's Bonsai has been a destination for bonsai hobbyists for over 30 years .
- Unique Features: The facility boasts over 175,000 square feet of greenhouse space devoted entirely to bonsai. It caters to gardeners, Asian culture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in this living art form. The nursery hosts an annual gathering called Rendezvous over Memorial Day weekend, attracting internationally recognized bonsai masters and students from across the U.S. .
Olive Branch City Park
- Full Name: Olive Branch City Park.
- Description: This is the city's primary public park and a popular spot for family outings .
- Features: The park features walking trails, playgrounds for children, and shaded picnic areas. It serves as a lively community gathering place for local events .
Climate and Weather
Type of Climate and General Characteristics
Olive Branch has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, humid summers.
Average Temperatures by Month
The average daily temperature ranges from 4°C in January to 28°C in July and August .
- Warmest Months: July and August are the warmest, with average maximum temperatures reaching 34°C and minimums around 22-23°C .
- Coolest Month: January is the coolest, with average maximum temperatures around 9°C and minimums dropping to -1°C .
Average Maximum and Minimum Temperatures ():
- January: Max 9°C, Min -1°C
- February: Max 12°C, Min 2°C
- March: Max 17°C, Min 6°C
- April: Max 22°C, Min 11°C
- May: Max 27°C, Min 16°C
- June: Max 32°C, Min 21°C
- July: Max 33°C, Min 23°C
- August: Max 34°C, Min 22°C
- September: Max 31°C, Min 19°C
- October: Max 25°C, Min 12°C
- November: Max 17°C, Min 5°C
- December: Max 12°C, Min 2°C
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: Olive Branch receives a significant amount of precipitation, averaging about 1520 mm (1517-1523 mm) per year .
- Wettest Month: February is the wettest month, with an average of 175-181 mm of precipitation .
- Driest Month: September is the driest, with an average of 74 mm of precipitation .
- Snow: Snow is infrequent, accounting for only about 3% of total annual precipitation. The highest chances for snow are in January (10% of monthly precipitation) and February (7%) .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Olive Branch are during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are warm but not excessively hot, making it ideal for exploring Old Towne and outdoor activities .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up nicely from an average of 12°C in March to 22°C in May. This season can be wet, with April being one of the wettest months .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are very hot and humid, with average highs around 32-34°C. This is the best time to visit the Olive Branch Aquatic Center to cool off .
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant weather prevails with decreasing humidity. September is the driest month, ideal for outdoor festivals and walks .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are mild but can be chilly and wet. While light frosts are possible, snow is rare. It's a quiet time to enjoy the indoor charm of the library or local shops .
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
Olive Branch is well-connected by several major roadways, which are crucial for its role as a suburb and logistics hub :
- U.S. Highway 78 (future I-22): This major highway runs east-west just north of the city, providing direct access to Birmingham, Alabama, to the southeast and Memphis, Tennessee, to the northwest.
- Mississippi Highway 302 (Goodman Road): This is the city's main commercial artery, running east-west and connecting Olive Branch with the neighboring city of Southaven to the west.
- Mississippi Highway 305 (Cockrum Street/Germantown Road): This is a key north-south route through the city, leading to the Tennessee state line and the Memphis suburb of Germantown.
Nearest Airports
- Memphis International Airport (MEM): Located approximately 20-25 minutes northwest of Olive Branch, this is the primary airport serving the region. It is a major hub for Delta Air Lines and offers numerous non-stop flights across the United States. Trips from the airport are subject to a $2 airport surcharge .
Public Transportation and Ridesharing
- Ridesharing: Services like Uber are readily available in Olive Branch, offering residents and visitors an alternative to driving. Uber Reserve also allows for trips to be scheduled up to 90 days in advance .
- Intercity Rail: The nearest Amtrak station is Memphis Central Station, located about 20 miles away in Memphis, Tennessee. From there, the City of New Orleans route provides service to Chicago and New Orleans .
Nearby Recreational Areas
- Arkabutla Lake: Located about 30 minutes from Olive Branch, this lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, with surrounding picnic spots and hiking trails .
- T.O. Fuller State Park: Approximately 30 minutes away in Memphis, this park offers an extensive trail system for hiking and exploration, as well as fishing lakes and picnic facilities .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Olive Branch's dining scene is a delightful mix of classic Southern comfort food and modern eateries, with a strong influence from its proximity to Memphis. While it doesn't have a single, centuries-old signature dish, the city is known for its beloved local spots and regional chains that define its culinary identity.
Guthrie's Original Chicken Fingers
A relatively new but highly anticipated addition to Olive Branch is Guthrie's, which opened its doors in 2023 at 8277 McGregor Crossing . This restaurant holds a significant place in American fast-food history, claiming to be "the original chicken finger restaurant," with a tradition dating back to 1965 . The menu is famously simple and focused: golden-fried, hand-breaded chicken fingers served with their signature tangy sauce, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, and coleslaw. It's a quintessential example of no-frills, down-home Southern fast food that has garnered a cult-like following across several states. The Olive Branch location was highly anticipated by locals who previously drove to other cities for it, making it a popular spot for a quick lunch, family dinner, or post-game meal .
Dodge's Southern Style
A more established local fixture is Dodge's Southern Style, a convenience store and eatery known for its Southern-style fare, particularly its fried chicken . While customer reviews indicate some fluctuation in food quality over time, it remains a recognizable name for a quick, comforting meal. Beyond the chicken, Dodge's has a cult following for specific items. Reviews consistently mention the "pizza sticks" as a must-try item, and there is a vocal contingent of customers who fondly remember and miss the now-discontinued pizza bar, with one reviewer mentioning they would "drive 35 mins to get that amazing goodness" . This highlights the kind of passionate, local following that defines some of Olive Branch's food spots.
Old Towne Dining and Local Favorites
The heart of Olive Branch's local dining scene is in its historic Old Towne district. Here, you'll find a cluster of popular spots that cater to both locals and visitors .
- SideStreet Burgers and OB Pizza Co.: These are go-to spots for families and casual diners, serving up hearty burgers and pizzas .
- Mississippi Ale House & Brew Pub: Located right next door to SideStreet Burger, this is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a wide selection of craft beers. With 30 beers on tap, it's a great place to try local brews like the DeSoto County-inspired "Top of the 'Sip pilsner" .
- Naru Japanese Restaurant: For those seeking something different, Naru offers Asian-inspired fare, adding to the diverse culinary options in the area .
Dessert Spots
For those with a sweet tooth, Olive Branch and the greater DeSoto County area offer several notable destinations :
- City Hall Cheesecake: A local favorite for decadent cheesecakes in a variety of flavors.
- Velvet Cream and DeSoto Snow & Creamery: Both are excellent choices for classic ice cream treats like sundaes and ice cream sandwiches.
Museums
Olive Branch offers a intimate look into its past through a small but charming local museum.
Olive Branch City Hall Museum
The city's primary museum is the Olive Branch City Hall Museum, a true "little-known gem" located on the first floor of City Hall . This one-room museum contains 12 cases of artifacts, offering a focused glimpse into the city's history. The collection is comprised entirely of documents, photographs, and artifacts donated by the citizens of Olive Branch, recounting the story of the city and its earliest settlers . It's a perfect stop for history buffs interested in the personal, grassroots history of this Mississippi community. The museum is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm .
Arts in the Alley and Local Art
Beyond the museum, Olive Branch supports its local arts scene through the Olive Branch Arts Council. Located in the Painted Pigeon Art Gallery & Gifts, the council promotes and supports local artists . In 2012, they opened Arts in the Alley, a free outdoor art gallery located next to the Chamber of Commerce in the Old Towne district . This unique space allows visitors to enjoy works from community artists in an open-air setting.
Sport and Sporting Legends
While Olive Branch may not be home to major professional sports franchises, it has a strong community sports culture, excellent facilities, and is strategically located near the major sporting attractions of Memphis.
Local Sports Facilities and High School Athletics
The heart of local sports in Olive Branch is the Olive Branch City Park, a 135-acre facility at 8267 Goodman Road. The park offers a wide array of amenities for both athletes and casual visitors, including:
- An eight-lane track .
- Three lakes (one with a fishing pier) .
- Five tennis courts .
- Three ball field complexes for baseball and softball .
- Two miles of walking trails and a playground .
This park is a hub for community activities and is closely tied to local school sports. The track, for example, is used by the Olive Branch High School track and field and cross-country teams. Records show the school's teams competing in events like the MHSAA State Championships, indicating an active and competitive high school sports program .
Nearby Professional and Collegiate Sports (Memphis, TN)
For major league sports, residents and visitors alike look to nearby Memphis, Tennessee, just a short drive away. This proximity gives Olive Branch easy access to a variety of professional and collegiate sporting events.
- NBA G League: The Memphis Hustle, the NBA G League affiliate of the Memphis Grizzlies, plays its home games at the Landers Center in nearby Southaven, MS . The Landers Center is a major venue for sporting events, shows, and concerts .
- NCAA Division I Sports: The University of Memphis Tigers compete in NCAA Division I sports, offering a full calendar of high-level college football, basketball, and other athletics.
- Spring Training Baseball: Baseball fans can catch the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins during their Spring Training at the Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium complex in Jupiter, FL, though this is a significant drive.
Golf
Olive Branch is notable for its excellent golf courses. The city is home to two of the top-rated courses in Mississippi:
- Cherokee Valley Golf Club (6635 Crumpler Blvd): An 18-hole, par-72 course that offers a challenging game for all skill levels, featuring 11 lakes and 78 bunkers .
- Plantation Golf Club (9425 Plantation Rd): Often paired with Cherokee Valley as a top-tier golfing destination, this course features zoysia fairways and Champion Bermuda greens .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Olive Branch itself does not host a large, four-year university, but its strategic location in the Memphis metropolitan area puts a wide range of higher education opportunities within easy reach for its residents.
Nearby Universities and Colleges
Students and lifelong learners in Olive Branch have several options for higher education just a short drive away in and around Memphis, TN.
- University of Memphis (Memphis, TN): This is the major public research university in the region. It is known for its programs in law, business, engineering, and the arts, and its Tigers sports teams are a central part of the local culture.
- Christian Brothers University (Memphis, TN): A private, Lasallian Catholic university known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and the sciences.
- Rhodes College (Memphis, TN): A highly regarded private liberal arts college, consistently ranked among the best in the South, known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and strong academic programs.
- Southwest Tennessee Community College (Multiple campuses in Memphis, TN): Provides accessible two-year degrees and technical certification programs, serving as a vital resource for workforce development and a common stepping stone for students transferring to four-year institutions.
- Northwest Mississippi Community College - DeSoto Center (Southaven, MS): Just a few minutes away in Southaven, this campus offers a wide range of academic and technical programs, serving as a crucial local resource for higher education and workforce training in DeSoto County.
Healthcare Institutions
While Olive Branch may not have massive, world-renowned hospital complexes, it is well-served by local clinics and is in very close proximity to the extensive medical resources of Memphis, Tennessee, a major hub for healthcare in the Mid-South.
Local Public Health Services
For essential public health services, residents rely on the Olive Branch, DeSoto County Health Department, located at 6569 Cockrum Road . This facility provides a broad range of outpatient diagnostic and treatment services. Key offerings include:
- Immunizations: Providing all childhood immunizations and some adult vaccines .
- Chronic Disease Management: Hosting monthly diabetes management support groups with education on diet, exercise, and health monitoring .
- Preventive Care: Offering services such as HIV testing, Pap tests, lead poisoning screening, and contraception .
- Prenatal and Early Intervention: Providing medical care for expectant mothers and early intervention services for children with disabilities or delays .
- Health Education: Offering general health education programs and nutrition education .
The health department operates on a sliding scale based on income and requires appointments for most services .
Major Medical Centers Nearby (Memphis, TN)
For more specialized or urgent care, hospital services, and complex procedures, Olive Branch residents are minutes away from the world-class medical facilities in Memphis. This proximity is one of the major advantages of living in the area. Key nearby medical centers include:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis: A major regional hospital known for its comprehensive services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. It is one of the largest and most respected hospitals in the area.
- Methodist University Hospital: A teaching hospital for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, renowned for its transplant program, neuroscience, and oncology.
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: One of the most famous and important medical institutions in the world. St. Jude is a leading center for research and treatment of catastrophic childhood diseases, particularly cancer. Its presence makes Memphis a global destination for pediatric care.
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital: A nationally ranked pediatric hospital providing comprehensive specialized care for children, closely affiliated with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
- Regional One Health: The area's only level 1 trauma center, providing the highest level of emergency care for the most critical injuries.
The Olive Branch City Park also includes amenities for recreation and fitness, such as walking trails and tennis courts, which contribute to the community's overall wellness .