Before interstate highways or even railroads, the Mississippi River was the primary avenue for the transport of goods from the American northwest to Southern ports and the world at large. Located atop the bluffs overlooking the river, Vicksburg and its railroad connected the two halves of the Confederacy, making it the focus of strategic considerations for both armies.

After a more thorough reconnaissance, Grant renewed his offensive on May 22. As part of that assault, the McClernand's Thirteenth Corps assaulted the Confederate works guarding the Southern Railroad and were repulsed with heavy loss.

This earthen fortification along the Jackson Road was the focus of operations of the Federals under Gen. John A. Logan, culminating with the explosion of a mine under this work on June 25, 1863.

The National Park Service is currently working to clear some of the vegetation that has grown in the 150 years since the battle, thus restoring the historic landscape to its wartime appearance.

This upturned cannon marks the spot where the Union and Confederate commanders first met to discuss the surrender of Pemberton's army.

Completed in 1860, the historic court house in downtown Vicksburg was the target of many a Union artillerist during the siege of Vicksburg, but only suffered one direct hit. On July 4, 1863, the victorious Federals raised the Stars and Stripes atop this building, signifying the end of siege of Vicksburg.

Established in 1866 by the Ladies Confederate Cemetery Association of Vicksburg, the Cedar Hill Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 1,600 Confederate soldiers who died during the Vicksburg Campaign.