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A Mississippi Native’s #1 Must-See: Vicksburg National Military Park

By Shelly Withers Janous

As a proud Mississippian, I’ve always felt deeply connected to my state’s rich history and cultural heritage. Of all the places in Mississippi, the one that stands out most in my heart is the Vicksburg National Military Park. It’s not just a park; it’s a living piece of history, a testament to our past, and a place that holds cherished childhood memories for me.

My first visit to Vicksburg National Military Park was a family trip with my dad and sister. I remember the sense of awe as we walked through this sprawling park, which serves as a memorial to the Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War. My father, a history enthusiast, shared stories of the soldiers and the battles, bringing to life the very ground we walked on. That day, history transcended the pages of my schoolbooks and became a vivid reality.

Vicksburg National Military Park is more than just a place; it’s a journey into a pivotal moment in American history. The park commemorates the 47-day siege of Vicksburg in 1863, a crucial turning point in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the restored ironclad gunboat, USS Cairo, and see the over 1,340 monuments, markers, and plaques that dot the landscape.

One of the most impactful experiences at the park is walking or driving through the 16-mile tour road. It takes you past the restored trenches and earthworks, the majestic Illinois Monument, and the haunting Vicksburg National Cemetery. Each stop tells a story of bravery, strategy, and the human cost of war.

What makes Vicksburg National Military Park truly special is its ability to connect us with the past. It’s not just about the military strategies or the historical significance; it’s about understanding the human stories. As a child, I was fascinated by the tales of individual soldiers, imagining their hopes, fears, and the families they left behind.

The park is not only a place for history buffs; it’s a destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of America’s past. It’s an educational experience, offering insights into the Civil War’s impact on our nation’s course. For families, it’s an opportunity to teach children about sacrifice, resilience, and the complexities of our history.

Vicksburg National Military Park holds a special place in my heart. It’s a reminder of the profound impact history can have on us, shaping our understanding of who we are and where we come from. I encourage everyone, whether you’re a Mississippi native or a visitor, to experience this remarkable place. It’s not just a visit to a park; it’s a walk through history, a journey that stays with you long after you leave.

If you haven’t visited Vicksburg National Military Park, make it your next destination. Take the time to wander its paths, read the stories, and let yourself be transported back in time. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of our history and memories that last a lifetime, just like I did.

For more information, visit
https://www.nps.gov/vick/

Share

A Mississippi Native’s #1 Must-See: Vicksburg National Military Park

It’s not just a park; it’s a living piece of history, a testament to our past, and a place that holds cherished childhood memories for me.

By Shelly Withers Janous

As a proud Mississippian, I’ve always felt deeply connected to my state’s rich history and cultural heritage. Of all the places in Mississippi, the one that stands out most in my heart is the Vicksburg National Military Park. It’s not just a park; it’s a living piece of history, a testament to our past, and a place that holds cherished childhood memories for me.

My first visit to Vicksburg National Military Park was a family trip with my dad and sister. I remember the sense of awe as we walked through this sprawling park, which serves as a memorial to the Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War. My father, a history enthusiast, shared stories of the soldiers and the battles, bringing to life the very ground we walked on. That day, history transcended the pages of my schoolbooks and became a vivid reality.

Vicksburg National Military Park is more than just a place; it’s a journey into a pivotal moment in American history. The park commemorates the 47-day siege of Vicksburg in 1863, a crucial turning point in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the restored ironclad gunboat, USS Cairo, and see the over 1,340 monuments, markers, and plaques that dot the landscape.

One of the most impactful experiences at the park is walking or driving through the 16-mile tour road. It takes you past the restored trenches and earthworks, the majestic Illinois Monument, and the haunting Vicksburg National Cemetery. Each stop tells a story of bravery, strategy, and the human cost of war.

What makes Vicksburg National Military Park truly special is its ability to connect us with the past. It’s not just about the military strategies or the historical significance; it’s about understanding the human stories. As a child, I was fascinated by the tales of individual soldiers, imagining their hopes, fears, and the families they left behind.

The park is not only a place for history buffs; it’s a destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of America’s past. It’s an educational experience, offering insights into the Civil War’s impact on our nation’s course. For families, it’s an opportunity to teach children about sacrifice, resilience, and the complexities of our history.

Vicksburg National Military Park holds a special place in my heart. It’s a reminder of the profound impact history can have on us, shaping our understanding of who we are and where we come from. I encourage everyone, whether you’re a Mississippi native or a visitor, to experience this remarkable place. It’s not just a visit to a park; it’s a walk through history, a journey that stays with you long after you leave.

If you haven’t visited Vicksburg National Military Park, make it your next destination. Take the time to wander its paths, read the stories, and let yourself be transported back in time. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of our history and memories that last a lifetime, just like I did.

For more information, visit
https://www.nps.gov/vick/