Ellington

Dozens of golden shovels were on hand to facilitate the groundbreaking process.

Gov. Phil Bryant spoke at the groundbreaking of Mississippi's new Civil Rights Museum next to the state flag containing the Confederate battle symbol. Myrlie Evers-Williams, the widow of slain Jackson civil-rights hero Medgar Evers, is visible below the flow.

Both museums are to open in 2017.

Former Governor Haley Barbour and current Governor Phil Bryant both spoke at the groundbreaking in Jackson, Miss.

Former Governors Ronnie Musgrove (left) and William Winters were on hand for the groundbreaking in Jackson, Miss.

Off to the edge of the crown, some groundskeepers watch the ceremony.

Seated behind the row of governors, Derrick Johnson, President of the Mississippi State Conference NAACP.

State Senator John Horhn speaks at the groundbreaking of the two museums.