Vicksburg has a very interesting Civil War history. Vicksburg was under a Union siege for 47 days prior to July 4th, 1863. On July 4th, General Pemberton surrendered Vicksburg to General U. S. Grant. General Pemberton was from Pennsylvania. He was a West Point graduate and a sitting Senator at the beginning of the war. Even though he was a Northerner, he believed the Southern States' cause was just.

The 47-day siege was extremely difficult for the citizens of Vicksburg; Both black and white, rich and poor. Many people retreated to the numerous caves along the Mississippi River. After Vicksburg surrendered, life under Union rule was just as difficult. The citizens had to sign an oath to the United States in order to conduct business, spend money, travel, and many other things we all take for granted. The influx of carpetbaggers just added to the torment and corruption.

Today, Vicksburg is a city proud of its past! Everywhere you go, there are reminders of the historical role played by this beautiful city in the war between the states. Where we are anchored right now, is where a very traumatic and decisive navel battle was fought. As I sit here typing, I know there are so many cannon balls under our keel. It really is exciting to be so close to history!

Tomorrow, we will continue our journey down the mighty Mississippi. Until next time...