December 1, 2008. Jackson, Ms. Vicksburg, Ms.

Many things today were new to me, in fact the only two facts I did know were that Vicksburg was on a bluff overlooking the mighty Mississippi River and a major Civil War was won by the Union forces, led by General Grant. All other details were unknown to me...until now. The military museum and cemetery are very well done and very interesting. The extent of the battles were extensive and over a very large area. It was interesting to see the events through the eyes of two young girls, especially two girls who just moved to the south from Yankee land. Their loyalties are not at all divided. I tried to engage them in conversation regarding the reasons the South were fighting, and that perhaps the South had rights that needed correction. They really only understood the slavery issue and they knew that the right side won. We all felt very badly at the sight of the seventeen thousand Union soldiers buried in the cemetery at Vicksburg. The Confederate soldiers were buried in Vicksburg. Mary Frances spoke for all of us when she commented that it was difficult imagining this beautiful place was full of horrors.

In 1863, when the battles were fought, Vicksburg was a very important city in the Mississippi River, certainly it was important for the Union forces to supply the troops and the country in the North. It was a bustling town of over five thousand people. Now it is a slightly seedy river town with an old Mississippi River boat serving as a casino. The town itself is forgettable, but the tour of the battle fields along with the CD telling the story as we drive along is well worth the visit. The girls loved it all, especially climbing on the canons.

Probably the highlight of the day was eating lunch at a Chinese Buffet restaurant. Even Molly, who is one year old, loved the food, especially the desserts. We drove south for a while, then found the Natchez Trace to find our way home. They thought for a long time that we were lost and they did not like that feeling much, but finally we were home and everyone was happy. We spent the whole day out on our field trip and enjoyed every minute of it. The country side is lovely with farms in every direction. Tomorrow we are doing an art appreciation day and will visit three galleries in Jackson. This home schooling has it's benefits.