Vicksburg News

I love living in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Perched high on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Vicksburg is steeped in history, legends, and architectural landmarks — and I never tire of photographing it. I am proud to announce that Vicksburg has been selected by This Old House magazine to be included in its fourth annual list of "64 Best Old House Neighborhoods," featured in its April issue. Neighborhoods were chosen based on architectural diversity, history, character and amenities, including summer activities, special events, holiday festivals, restaurants, and projects among residents. Editors combed the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada for nominees, and Vicksburg's Civil War history, rolling hills, river views, and grand old homes helped land it a spot in the magazine. The "Best Old House Neighborhoods" list is in a special section in the current issue, and can also be accessed online at This Old House Best Places. The website features photos of one home from each of the 64 places and a description of the neighborhoods. To see what the editors said about Vicksburg, you can click on this link: Vicksburg. The house featured in the magazine is The Pemberton House, which was built in 1835, and was used by Confederate Gen. John C. Pemberton in 1863 as his headquarters during the 47-day Siege of Vicksburg (these are my pictures). The architecture of the two-story house is a combination of Greek Revival and Federal-style, both common among Vicksburg’s old homes. In 2003, the National Park Service purchased the home, and The Pemberton House is expected to be open for tours by summer. Here are a few more of Vicksburg's historical houses and buildings that probably helped cinch its spot on the This Old House list. George Washington House, ca 1822 According to land records, George Washington Ball, a well-to-do distant cousin of our first president, built this Federal style house. The Corners, ca 1873 Great Hope Manor, ca 1904 Belle of the Bends, ca 1876 I love the view of the river from the swing on the porch ... Baer House, ca 1849-1870 Anchuca Mansion, ca 1830 Cedar Grove Mansion, ca 1840 McNutt House, ca 1826 Duff Green Mansion, ca 1856 Annabelle, ca 1868 Balfour House, ca 1835 Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad Station Sisters of Mercy Convent, ca 1868 Old Court House Museum, ca 1858 Christ Episcopal Church, ca 1830 The Church of the Holy Trinity These are just a few of the historical houses and buildings in Vicksburg. Several of the houses now serve as bed and breakfast inns, offering southern hospitality at it finest. If you are planning a trip to the Vicksburg area, I hope you can come during Vicksburg's Tapestry: Spring Pilgrimage celebration, which begins April 1st, and runs through the 30th. Throughout the month, there will be tours of our historic homes and hallways, with interpretive presentations of Vicksburg's history that bring to life the heritage and culture of this remarkable river city. Some of Vicksburg's most historic properties will tell their stories — from antebellum grandeur, to the Siege of Vicksburg, to the turn of the 20th Century. Together, these stories weave the Tapestry of who and what Vicksburg is today. Vicksburg's "Spring Pilgrimage" is a perfect time to experience the beauty, history, and southern hospitality of our fair city ... and see for yourself why it was honored by This Old House as one of their "best neighborhoods." For more information on Tapestry, you can visit: Tapestry: Vicksburg's Spring Pilgrimage Vicksburg's Convention and Visitors Bureau