Model Trains, Unique Collections, Storied Homes, and Tales of War Bring Vicksburg’s History to Life

Museums, Homes, and Historic Landmarks Fill this Mississippi City

In this city known for its historic sites and preserved downtown waterfront, there are many ways to explore the landmarks and experience the history of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Both those with a passing interest and hard-core history buffs will find the sites and stories of this city, founded in 1811 and incorporated in 1825, fascinating.

Museums

Many unique aspects of Vicksburg and its history are on display at Catfish Row Museum (913 North Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-738-5679). The museum explores cultural heritage, from music, history, and storytelling to the vibrant food heritage, worship, and the visual arts of Vicksburg.

The Mighty Mississippi, as the river is called, has always played a leading role in Vicksburg’s development and its culture. The Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum (910 Washington Street, Vicksburg Mississippi 39183, 601-638-9900) is dedicated to telling the stories of the river. Exhibits explore the river’s role in transportation, trade, and flood management practices as well as in providing the all-important natural resources for hunting, fishing, and recreation here. At the Old Depot Museum (1010 Levee St, Vicksburg Mississippi 39183, 601-638-6500) the history of the railroad industry in the region is explored. Various layouts feature N, O, and HO model train layouts complete with buildings, scenery, and architecture. Vicksburg’s key role in the Civil War is interpreted as well, and there is also an amazing diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg on display. Located in the former Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad Station the museum is touted as a prime example of Colonial Revival architecture.

For a more in-depth look at that era, the recently opened Civil War Museum (1123 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-218-5526) features an unmatched collection of Civil War artifacts and tells many stories and effects of the Civil War beyond the battlefield. The museum presents exhibits focusing on often overlooked aspects of the times. Displays at the Old Court House Museum (1008 Cherry St, Vicksburg Mississippi 39183, 601-636-0741) share compelling stories and historic artifacts from earlier times, including the Civil War era and more. A one-of-a-kind textile exhibit includes clothing from the 1800s as well as porcelain dolls, quilts, and children’s toys. Even an original Teddy Bear was given to a local child by Theodore Roosevelt. The 1859 courthouse is on the second floor of the museum, which is housed in the Old Warren County Courthouse, dubbed the most historic building in the city. It has also been named one of the 20 most outstanding courthouses in the United States by the American Institute of Architects.

Vicksburg is where Coca-Cola® was first bottled in 1894. The Biedenharn Coca-Cola® Museum (1107 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-638-6514) is filled with Coca-Cola® memorabilia and Biedenharn family history and tells the story of how this became an important location in the beloved soft drink’s history.

Vicksburg has launched the City Attractions Passport. After getting stamps from museums, tour homes, and other landmark attractions around the city, visitors can turn in their passports to the visitors center for a Vicksburg t-shirt. Passports can be picked up at area visitors centers at 52 Old Highway 27, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183, or 910 Washington Street, Vicksburg Mississippi 39183.

Unique Sites

Nearby downtown is one of the most well-known historic sites in the South, Vicksburg National Military Park (3201 Clay Street Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-636-0583). Across the 1,800-acre park, nearly 1300 monuments and memorials are on display on this site, where the Battle of Vicksburg was fought. It is said Vicksburg was “vital to victory” and the Siege of Vicksburg, a decisive event in the Civil War, culminated here where now thousands of soldiers are memorialized.

Art lovers enjoy visiting the park, as well, as it has been called the “art park of the world,” home to stone and bronze works created by some of the most renowned American sculptors of the era. Another historic site featuring amazing works of art is the Church of the Holy Trinity (900 South Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180; 601-636-0542). Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the church has 14 stained glass windows, including six authentic Tiffany originals that date back to the late 19th century.

Homes & Tours

The 12 tour homes of Vicksburg offer glimpses into both architecture, culture, and personal stories of its past and its people. Anchuca Historic Mansion (1010 First Street East, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180; 601-661-0111) was built in the late 1820s and updated in the 1840s. This is one of the most significant historic homes and the first to become a bed & breakfast in Vicksburg. It is best known as the home of Joseph E. Davis, brother of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Anchuca is also open to the public for evening dining and Sunday brunch. Duff Green Mansion (1114 First East Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi: 601-636-6968) is a historic landmark that was formerly a Civil War hospital. The three-story bed & breakfast include a ballroom, the former kitchen-turned-operating-room, where, it is said, the ghost of a Confederate soldier might wander. Many more of Vicksburg’s historic homes offer overnight lodging, as well.

McRaven Tour Home (1445 Harrison Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180; 601-501-1336) has been named “the most haunted in Mississippi,” and called a “time capsule of the South” by National Geographic Magazine. With areas built in three different time periods, visitors can explore architecture from the Frontier (1797), Empire (1836), and Greek Revival (1849) eras.

Where to Eat:

Walnut Hills (1214 Adams Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39138; 601-638-4910) is a Vicksburg icon. A classic menu of Southern cuisine is served in the atmosphere of an 1880s home. There is a full menu of steaks, seafood, and unique specialties, including their famous fried chicken and garden vegetables, each prepared from family recipes.

Rusty’s Riverfront Grill (901 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39138; 601-638-2030) asks, “Did someone say fried green tomatoes?” This is the spot for them. Fresh gulf seafood and hand-cut steaks are favorites, too and the Cajun-inspired menu is rounded out with po’boys, sandwiches, and salads.

10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill (1301 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39138; 601-501-4600) is a rooftop bar and grill and a local favorite for sunset happy hours overlooking the river. The menu is filled with classic favorites and the atmosphere is relaxed.

Key City Brewery & Eatery (1311 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39138; 601-501-7712) is a popular local brew pub offering a casual, fun atmosphere. The menu features small plates, woodfired pizza along with local craft beer and specialty cocktails.

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