Vicksburg, Mississippi, along the banks of the Mississippi River, has been nicknamed “The Key to the South." A major Civil War battle was fought in Vicksburg, and the city treasures and preserves its rich history. In addition to modern attractions such as casinos, spas and upscale dining, Vicksburg gives visitors the opportunity to explore Civil War historical sites, architecture and historical homes. Many historical homes in Vicksburg run regular tours and provide a glimpse of life in the antebellum South.
Many of the homes in Vicksburg have ties to the Civil War. The Duff Green Mansion escaped destruction during the Civil War by serving as a Union and Confederate hospital. The floors still have bloodstains, and ceiling beams show cannonball marks. The home is open to the public for tours every day from noon to 5 p.m. The Linden Plantation and Gardens is located near the site of the Battle of Big Black River. After the battle, the Confederate army overran the plantation. A Union doctor, Dr. Joyceline, took over the house and established a field hospital. Today, the home contains documents that reflect life on Linden during the Union occupation, along with original antiques and family pieces. Tours are available by appointment only.
There are a few houses in Vicksburg that claim to have otherworldly residents. McRaven House is reported to be one of the most haunted houses in Mississippi. Confederate soldiers supposedly walk the grounds where they died in a field hospital, and the house is said to be haunted by five former inhabitants who died there. McRaven tours last for an hour and a half and are available daily. Cedar Grove Inn is also reportedly haunted. John Alexander Klein, who was a wealthy planter, built Cedar Grove. John Klein himself reportedly haunts the house, with visitors occasionally smelling his pipe smoke. Tours are given daily.
Several homes of important individuals from the history of Vicksburg still stand. Joseph Davis, American pioneer and brother of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, lived in Anchuca, a columned mansion. Vicksburg legends tell that Jefferson Davis gave one of his last public addresses to the people of Vicksburg from the balcony of Anchuca. Tours are offered daily from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Martha Vick house is also available for tours. Martha was the daughter of Newet Vick, the founder of Vicksburg. When her parents died in 1819, Martha Vick took over and managed the massive Vick estate. Tours of the home last approximately 40 minutes, and are available daily.
Many of the historical homes in Vicksburg feature unique architecture in addition to their historical significance. The George Washington Ball House is one of the oldest houses in Vicksburg and was the home of the cousin of President Washington. It features a two-story veranda and original slave quarters. Ahern’s Bell of the Bends sits on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. It is the only home in Vicksburg to feature hand-carved millwork around the windows and doors, along with four original antebellum chandeliers.
