• View from Battery DeGolyer

    Vicksburg

    National Military Park Mississippi

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  • Grand Illumination Event Information

    A Grand Illumination will be held on July 3 from 6-10 pm throughout VNMP. Tour road access is at the Clay St. entrance only and limited to motor vehicles. No pedestrians or bicyclists will be allowed during these hours. Click 'More' for further details. More »

Capstan

USS Cairo Capstan

USS Cairo Capstan

NPS Photo

The gunboat's capstan was capable of moving weights of several tons. It was a steam-driven or hand-driven winch used for pulling in the anchor, moving guns on the gun deck, and hauling lines.

Did You Know?

Did You Know?

President Abraham Lincoln, in speaking of Vicksburg's importance, is reputed to have stated early during the Civil War, "See what a lot of land these fellows hold, of which Vicksburg is the key, the war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket."