Gettysburg is often called the turning point of the Civil War. However, no event was as significant as the siege of Vicksburg.
The photos in this post showcase Vicksburg, Mississippi, and its surroundings. The black-and-white images were taken by my father in June 1968. The color photos are mine, captured in August 2024. These pictures were taken 56 years apart.
The Illinois State Memorial at Vicksburg National Military Park is one of the most striking monuments on the battlefield. Completed in 1906, it serves as a tribute to the 36,000 Illinois soldiers who fought in the Vicksburg Campaign. 47 steps leading up to the monument represent the number of days of the siege. Inside, bronze plaques list the names of the Illinois soldiers, preserving their legacy for generations.
Elsewhere in the battlefield, the Louisiana Monument sits atop a hill with smaller historical markers around it.
Near the monument is a dramatic statue: a memorial to General Lloyd Tilghman:
Ironically, Tilghman didn’t die here–he died almost 19 miles away at the battle of Champion Hill.
Today, there are many more trees on the battlefield than there were in 1968. After that time, trees were planted to help preserve the earthworks and protect the site from erosion. However, the National Park Service later discovered that these trees actually cause more harm than good for preservation. They also make it harder to visualize how the battle unfolded. The debate over whether to remove the trees continues.
Vicksburg National Cemetery hasn’t changed much, though the USS Cairo museum is now across the street from the cemetery.
The Old Courthouse in Vicksburg, though not on the battlefield, stood as a witness to the siege. Today, it serves as a museum with an old-fashioned charm, featuring exhibits on the history of Vicksburg.
One highlight is the collection of remnants from the Sprague riverboat—the largest steamboat ever built. My dad had the chance to see the Sprague in person. Sadly, I never did, as it was destroyed by a fire on April 15, 1974.
Although the Sprague is gone, its legacy lives on in Vicksburg. Pieces of the boat can still be found around town, especially in Catfish Row Art Park along the river. One of the riverfront murals is dedicated to the Sprague, showcasing the famous riverboat and preserving its story for future generations.
Let me know about your trips to Vicksburg in the comments below!
