Every Civil War battlefield has plenty of stories to tell, and on the evening of April 12, 2014, Vicksburg National Military Park will give visitors a chance to "meet some of the historical personalities that shaped the story of the struggle for Vicksburg." The special walking tour, "Shadows of the Past," is free, but reservations are required.
The Presidents of both the Union and the Confederacy recognized the strategic importance of Vicksburg with the statements, "Vicksburg is the nail head that holds the South's two halves together...Vicksburg is the key. "
President Davis knew was it vital to hold this city along the Mississippi River if the Confederacy was to survive, while President Lincoln wanted to gain control of the river and divide the South. Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates this campaign and its significance as a critical turning point of the Civil War.
If you're looking for human interest angles and a source of stories about an important battle, this is a good candidate. Vicksburg National Cemetery is the largest internment of Civil War dead in the nation, and is the burial place for nearly 17,000 Union soldiers who fell at Vicksburg and other battles in the South.
Nearly two months of costly fighting and a subsequent siege of the town ended with a Confederate surrender on July 4, 1863. Vicksburg National Military Park is also one of the most heavily monumented parks in the world with over 1330 monuments, markers, tablets, and plaques.
Which of the thousands who had a role in this battle will be featured during this special activity on April 12? Mum's the word, so if you'd like to find out, be sure to reserve a spot as soon as possible. The guided walks will cover about a mile of the park tour road and will take about an hour. For reservations and directions, call (601) 636-0583. There is no charge for the program.
Tours will begin at 7:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. Each group will be limited to 30 people, and participants are urged to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring flashlights, and dress appropriately for weather.
You'll find additional information about Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery on the park website.
Vicksburg National Military Park Invites You To Meet "People From The Past" During April 12 Evening Walk
Published Date
March 19, 2014
Evening shadows begin to fall around the Illinois Memorial at Vicksburg National Military Park. NPS photo.
Story Categories:
Support National Parks Traveler
Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.
EIN: 26-2378789
Support Essential Coverage of Essential PlacesA copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.
Support Our Mission
Help support us– the one source for journalism dedicated to our National Parks.
National Parks Traveler is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
Add comment