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Illinois Memorial: A Tribute to Valor at Vicksburg

A majestic tribute to Illinois soldiers at Vicksburg National Military Park, honoring their courage and sacrifice during the pivotal Civil War siege.

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The Illinois Memorial, located in Vicksburg National Military Park, stands as a tribute to the 36,325 Illinois soldiers who participated in the Vicksburg Campaign during the American Civil War. Modelled after the Roman Pantheon, this impressive monument commemorates their valor and sacrifice.

A brief summary to Illinois Memorial

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking to do within the park.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views.
  • Check the park's schedule for ranger-led tours and special events to enhance your visit.
  • Read the historical markers throughout the park for a deeper understanding of the siege's significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already within Vicksburg National Military Park, the Illinois Memorial is accessible via the park's walking paths. Follow the signs directing you to the Illinois Memorial, which is prominently located and visible from various points within the park. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on warm days.

  • Car

    If driving within Vicksburg National Military Park, take the park road towards the center of the park. From the visitor center at 3201 Clay Street, turn onto the park road and follow the signs to the Illinois Memorial. The memorial will be on your right, with a parking area nearby. There are no additional costs for parking within the park.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options directly within Vicksburg National Military Park are limited. However, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service to the park entrance. From there, follow the park road and signs to the Illinois Memorial. Taxi or rideshare services from within Vicksburg typically cost $10-$20, depending on the distance. Vicksburg also has a public transit system, N-Route, with several routes throughout the city. Contact N-Route at (601) 636-1053 for route and schedule information.

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Discover more about Illinois Memorial

The Illinois Memorial, also known as the Illinois State Memorial, is a significant monument within the Vicksburg National Military Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Dedicated in 1906, it honors the Union Army soldiers from Illinois who fought in the siege of Vicksburg during the American Civil War. The Vicksburg Campaign was a crucial turning point in the war, culminating in a Union victory on July 4, 1863, and granting the U.S. control of the Mississippi River. In 1904, the state of Illinois allocated over $190,000 for the construction of a memorial on the battlefield, now part of the Vicksburg National Military Park. Designed by architect William Le Baron Jenney and sculptor Charles Mulligan, the memorial is modeled after the Roman Pantheon. Construction began in mid-1906 and was completed by October of the same year. The memorial was dedicated on October 26, 1906, in a ceremony attended by thousands, including many Illinois Civil War veterans. The memorial is constructed of Georgia white marble on a granite base. It stands 62 feet (19 meters) tall and features 47 granite steps, one for each day of the Siege of Vicksburg. The building has a circular design with a rectangular portico supported by six Ionic columns, topped with a bronze bald eagle sculpted by Frederick C. Hibbard. Inside, 60 bronze tablets list the names of all 36,325 Illinois soldiers who participated in the Vicksburg Campaign. Like the Roman Pantheon, the memorial has an oculus at the top of the dome. The Illinois Memorial is located on Union Avenue at milepost 1.8, tour stop #2 within the park. Visitors can explore the memorial's interior, view the bronze plaques, and appreciate the architectural design. The surrounding park offers walking paths, historical markers, and exhibits detailing the history of the siege.

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