In May and June of 1863, Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s armies converged on Vicksburg, investing the city and entrapping a Confederate army under Lt. Gen. John Pemberton. On July 4, Vicksburg surrendered after prolonged siege operations. This was the culmination of one of the most brilliant military campaigns of the war. With the loss of Pemberton’s army and this vital stronghold on the Mississippi, the Confederacy was effectively split in half. Grant's successes in the West boosted his reputation, leading ultimately to his appointment as General-in-Chief of the Union armies.

Although much is written of the military actions at Vicksburg. I have always been most impressed with the strength exhibited by the citizens of Vicksburg in their effort to survive the siege.

Our trip

Vicksburg

Vicksburg National Military Park

Coachie nestled in amongst the buses.

Ready to start our trip.

Mark and Ulysses

Mark tried to load Marla into a cannon but she wouldn't let him.

She'd rather sit on top instead.

The entrance to the park's driving tour.

Following the park map.

The U.S.S. Cairo

It was sunk by a Civil War torpedo - which would be more like what we consider a mine - that was detonated from shore when the ship was in range.

The pistons and paddle wheel.

Marla likes the cannons.

The Cairo was armor plated.

Checking out the boilers.

The paddle wheel was enclosed so that it was less likely to be damaged by enemy fire.

Marla picked some flowers.

Tea-time with Confederate President Jefferson Davis.