Vicksburg's Military Park

AFTER VISITING other Civil War battlefields through the years, there was another one high on my list that I wanted to see.  This wish came true this past summer!  The Vicksburg National Military Park, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, became a leisure destination for my wife and me.

While all the places where battles were fought during the Civil War are in many ways similar, yet there is a uniqueness about each one. This is certainly true for Vicksburg.

Following a short introductory movie in the Visitors Center, we set out on a 16-mile self-guided driving tour. A map and numerous markers and signs pointed out significant spots and panoramic areas of importance. It was a journey up, down, and around the rugged terrain where Confederate and Union troops fought each other from May 18 to July 4, 1863.

Now, there are over 1200 monuments to those who fought and died on the very land we were traversing. It was very interesting; it was amazing; and, it was solemn. At times, especially during our stops along the way, it felt like we were standing on hallowed ground.

This is an experience worth having. This is a journey worth taking. And, I highly recommend it.