150th Anniversary of the Battle of Port Gibson

Date: May 1, 2013
Contact: Kerry Jones, 601-636-7395

On Saturday, May 11, 2013, Vicksburg National Military Park Staff will present a program on the Battle of Port Gibson as part of the park's Sesquicentennial commemoration of the Campaign and Siege of Vicksburg. The program will be held at the Harriette Person Memorial Library, 606 Main Street, in Port Gibson, MS, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Admission is free.

During the spring of 1863, Maj. General U.S. Grant launched his march on Vicksburg by moving his army south from Milliken's Bend on the west side of the Mississippi River. Grant wanted to cross the river at Grand Gulf; however, the Union Navy was unable to silence large Confederate guns there, forcing him to march farther south and cross at Bruinsburg, MS, on April 30, 1863. Union forces came ashore, secured the perimeter, and by late afternoon, began moving inland. The Union amphibious landing at Bruinsburg would be the largest such landing in U.S. military history until the D-Day invasion. Confederate Brig. General John Bowen tried to block the Union advancement towards Port Gibson, but he did not have the necessary men to do so. Grant's advance on Rodney Road towards Port Gibson resulted in battle with a seriously outmanned Confederate army unable to stop the Union onslaught. The defeat proved the Confederates could not defend the Mississippi River line, and the Federals were able to secure a coveted beachhead. The way to Vicksburg was now a distinct possibility.

About the Vicksburg National Military Park

Vicksburg National Military Park was created in order to commemorate the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg, Mississippi, in 1863.

The park staff is committed to preserving and protecting the historic, cultural, and natural resources within the park in a manner that will provide interpretation, education, and enjoyment for visitors. Visitor Centers are located at 3201 Clay Street (open daily 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.) and at the Cairo Museum (open daily 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M ). The park grounds are open daily 8:00 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Admission to the Vicksburg National Military Park is $8.00 per personal vehicle, and all applicable Vicksburg and National Park Service annual passes are accepted. Information regarding entrance fees or programs can be found on the park's website at www.nps.gov/vickor calling 601-636-0583.