Vicksburg National Cemetery | Vicksburg

Information

Landmark: Vicksburg National Cemetery
City: Vicksburg
Country: USA Mississippi
Continent: North America

Vicksburg National Cemetery, Vicksburg, USA Mississippi, North America

Vicksburg National Cemetery is a United States military cemetery located in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It serves as the final resting place for Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War, particularly those who fought in the Vicksburg Campaign.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery grounds are characterized by rolling hills and meticulously maintained lawns. Rows of uniform white headstones, primarily marble, mark the graves. The landscape includes mature trees providing shade, and a central monument, the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, is a prominent feature. The overall aesthetic is one of order and solemnity.

Location & Access Logistics

The cemetery is situated approximately 3 miles east of downtown Vicksburg, Mississippi, accessible via U.S. Route 80 East (Clay Street). The main entrance is clearly marked from the highway. Ample paved parking is available within the cemetery grounds. No public transport directly serves the cemetery; private vehicle or taxi is recommended.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established by an Act of Congress on February 21, 1867, Vicksburg National Cemetery was created to inter the remains of Union soldiers who perished in the Vicksburg Campaign and siege. The land was acquired from private owners. The site's ecological origin is loessal soil, common to the Mississippi bluffs, which supports the established vegetation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the grounds to observe the vast number of graves. The USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, a Civil War ironclad, is located within the cemetery and offers exhibits. Self-guided driving tours are available, with designated stops and interpretive signage detailing key areas of the Vicksburg Campaign. The Illinois Monument is another significant structure for observation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center. Shaded areas are provided by numerous trees throughout the cemetery. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located within the cemetery; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions or dine in Vicksburg.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended. The months of April, May, September, and October offer the most temperate weather conditions, avoiding the extreme heat and humidity of summer. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

The cemetery contains the remains of over 17,000 Union soldiers, with approximately 13,000 of these interred in unknown graves. A unique feature is the presence of the USS Cairo, a Union gunboat that sank in the Yazoo River in 1862 and was later raised and restored.