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Chickasaw Bayou Battle: A Civil War Clash

Explore the site of the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou, a pivotal clash in the Civil War's Vicksburg Campaign, and reflect on its historical significance.

The Chickasaw Bayou Battle site marks the location of the opening engagement of the Vicksburg Campaign during the American Civil War. Here, in December 1862, Union forces under Major General William T. Sherman were repulsed by Confederate troops led by Lieutenant General John C. Pemberton. A historical marker commemorates the battle.

A brief summary to Chickasaw Bayou Battle

  • 4023 N Washington St, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39183, US

Local tips

  • Visit the site during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Take time to read the historical marker to understand the context and significance of the battle.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Vicksburg National Military Park for a more comprehensive understanding of the Vicksburg Campaign.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Chickasaw Bayou Battle site is located at 4023 N Washington St, Vicksburg, MS 39183. From downtown Vicksburg, take US-61 North/N Washington Street. The site will be on your left, a few miles north of the city. There is no dedicated parking area, but it is possible to park on the shoulder of the road near the historical marker.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Vicksburg, locate the nearest bus stop and board the local transit service (N-Route) heading towards North Washington Street. Request to get off at the stop closest to 4023 N Washington St. Check the Vicksburg Area Transit System (N-Route) schedule for times and availability. A single ride fare is around $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the Mississippi Welcome Center, head north on N Washington St. Continue for approximately 0.8 miles. The Chickasaw Bayou Battle site will be on your left at 4023 N Washington St. Be aware that this is a walk along a highway and may not be suitable for all individuals.

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Discover more about Chickasaw Bayou Battle

The Chickasaw Bayou Battle, also known as the Battle of Walnut Hills, was a significant Civil War engagement fought from December 26–29, 1862. It represented the initial attempt in the Union's Vicksburg Campaign to seize control of the Mississippi River. Vicksburg, known as the 'Gibraltar of the Confederacy,' was strategically vital due to its location on a high bluff overlooking a bend in the river. Major General William T. Sherman led approximately 30,000 Union soldiers to approach Vicksburg from the northeast. Confederate forces, numbering over 13,000 and commanded by Lieutenant General John C. Pemberton and Brigadier General Stephen D. Lee, were entrenched at Chickasaw Bluffs, also called Walnut Hills. The Union soldiers faced challenging terrain, having to traverse swampland and the chest-deep waters of Chickasaw Bayou. On December 29, Sherman ordered a frontal assault after futile attempts to outflank the Confederate lines. The Union attack was met with stiff resistance, resulting in heavy casualties and a retreat. The Confederate victory at Chickasaw Bayou, coupled with stalled Union advances elsewhere, thwarted the initial Union attempt to capture Vicksburg. Today, visitors to the Chickasaw Bayou Battle site can see a historical marker commemorating the battle. While the battlefield itself is not extensively marked, the site offers a chance to reflect on the events that unfolded here and their significance in the broader context of the Civil War.

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