Date: December 19, 2012
Contact: Tim Kavanaugh, 601-619-2908
On December 28 and 29, 2012, Vicksburg National Military Park will observe the Sesquicentennial of General William T. Sherman's unsuccessful Union assault on Vicksburg and the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou.
Although overshadowed by the subsequent Campaign and Siege of Vicksburg, which took place during the late spring and summer of 1863, Sherman's assault on the Walnut Hills on December 26-29, 1862, were bold and bloody attacks which, although unsuccessful, cost his Union forces 1,776 casualties, as well as 187 killed, wounded and missing among the Confederate defenders.
On Friday evening, December 28, Terry Winschel, retired Vicksburg NMP historian, will present a program entitled "Winter of Despair: Union Failures to Capture Vicksburg," from 7:00-9:00 pm at the park's Visitor Center auditorium on Clay Street. Doors will open at 6:30 pm and light refreshments will be served. The Eastern National book and gift store will also be open to sell Mr. Winschel's books, as well as other books and items related to the Vicksburg Campaign. Admission to this event is free.
On Saturday, December 29, Mr. Winschel will lead an automobile tour of the Chickasaw Bayou battlefield and other sites related to the historic events. Those interested in participating are to meet in the Visitor Center parking lot by 8:00 am, and the tour will leave from there by 8:15 am. Carpooling is highly recommended as the tour will be following public roads. A running commentary by Mr. Winschel will be transmitted between stops which can be received by all vehicles in the convoy through their FM car radios. The tour will last approximately four hours, although participants can leave the tour whenever they wish once it departs Vicksburg NMP grounds. There is no charge for those participating in the tour. Those wishing to tour the park on their own must pay the $8.00 per vehicle admission.
Come learn more about what many consider the opening engagement of the Vicksburg Campaign on its 150th anniversary as told by one of Vicksburg's preeminent historians. For additional information please call the park at 601-636-0583.
