What do you think about when you envision Vicksburg? Vicksburg is located in West Mississippi. Full of rich history and places to visit, Vicksburg is definitely a great city to visit. This special city embodies both freedom and bravery.
History
When was Vicksburg founded? By whom? Vicksburg was founded in 1811, by Newt Vick and was incorporated on January 29, 1825. Newt Vick was a Methodist preacher who was a Virginia native. He was married to a woman named Elizabeth. Before settling in Mississippi, the Vicks moved around quite a bit. They started in Virginia and relocated to North Carolina soon after they wed. In this place they briefly called “home,” they farmed for four years.
After taking the keelboat they purchased on a journey down the Tennessee River and eventually down both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the Vicks decided they wanted to plant their roots in the grand state of Mississippi. After moving to a town near Natchez called Selerstown, they continued their simple lifestyle of being farmers. Not too long after they lived in Mississippi, Newt Vick heard about a plot of land located near the Mississippi River. This plot of land located in Warren County piqued the interest of Vick. This plot of land eventually became the settlement of the city of Vicksburg, named after Newt Vick himself.
What Can I Do in Vicksburg?
You may be wondering what is in Vicksburg for you. One of the most phenomenal aspects of this city is that it is full of rich history. Some places to visit are more fun while some are sobering. Here is a list of activities you can enjoy and places to visit:
Old Courthouse Museum – Also called the “Warren County Courthouse”, the Old Courthouse Museum remains a prominent Confederate symbol to this day. The Old Court Museum was built in 1858, and during that era, it served as Warren County’s Courthouse until 1939. By that time, the new courthouse was finished being built. In 1964, a historical society was formed to preserve and transform the “Old Courthouse” into a historical monument.
Vicksburg Campaign Trail – Follow Ulysses S. Grant’s footsteps on the Vicksburg Campaign Trail. Ulysses S. Grant was a military officer and politician. He commanded Tennessee’s Union Army in 1862. The Vicksburg Campaign Trail details the strategy, strength, and selflessness of not only Ulysses but many other soldiers and military officers.
Cedar Hill Cemetery – The Cedar Hill Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the United States. The eternal resting place for 5,000 Confederate soldiers, this is also known as “Soldier’s Rest.” Remember that when you visit, the lives and legacies of the fallen soldiers are real and have helped shape Mississippi into what it is today.
McRaven House – The McRaven House is a pre-Civil War home and an interesting place to visit. Offering both haunted tours and historical tours, the McRaven House is known to be Mississippi’s most haunted house. This eerie (but beautiful) residence has been featured on A&E, The Travel Channel, 48 Hours, and “Look Around Mississippi.” Be prepared to scream, laugh, or become knowledgeable about the history of this home.
Bidenharn Coca-Cola Museum – Did you now that the first ever Coca-Cola was bottled in Vicksburg? Bottled in the Biedenharn Candy Co. building, you can visit the exact place where Coca-Cola bottles got their start and learn all about the famous soda’s hsistory.
There are so many wonderful gems within our home state that make us proud. Whether it is haunted and historical houses or museums full of beautiful stories and important information, Mississippi is full of interesting history. The city of Vicksburg symbolizes bravery and tenacity — even in the midst of differing perspectives. Considering all that has occurred in Vicksburg, it continues to reign as a place where we can say that we, here in Mississippi and all over the United States, are the land of the free because of the brave.
