Mississippi's Civil War Battlefields: A Comprehensive Guide
From April 12, 1861 to April 9, 1865, the American Civil War pitted the Union against the Confederacy. Mississippi, strategically located along the Mississippi River, was a pivotal battleground. This guide examines the state’s key Civil War sites and offers practical advice for visitors.
Mississippi’s Civil War Battles
The war began with the First Battle of Bull Run and concluded with the surrender of the Confederacy. It ended slavery, adopted the 13th‑15th Amendments, and ushered in Reconstruction. Mississippi hosted numerous engagements, including:
Battles of 1862
- April 29 – June 10: Corinth
- September 19: Iuka
- October 3‑4: Corinth
- December 26‑29: Chickasaw Bayou/Walnut Hills
Battles of 1863
- April 16: Vicksburg
- April 29: Grand Gulf
- April 29 – May 1: Snyder’s Bluff/Snyder’s Mill
- May 1: Port Gibson/Thompson’s Hill
- May 12: Raymond
- May 14: Jackson
- May 16: Champion Hill/Baker’s Creek
- May 17: Big Black River Bridge
- May 18 – July 4: Vicksburg
Battles of 1864
- February 14 – 20: Meridian
- February 22: Okolona
- June 10: Brice’s Cross Roads/Tishomingo Creek
- July 14 – 15: Tupelo/Harrisburg
Must‑Visit Battlefields
Every year, thousands of history enthusiasts travel to Mississippi to experience its Civil War heritage. Key sites include:
Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield
Located in Guntown, this battlefield was the site of a decisive Confederate victory and featured over 12,000 soldiers. Established in February 1929 by the U.S. National Park Service, it remains a preserved historic site.
Tupelo National Battlefield
The last Civil War engagement in Mississippi, Tupelo National Battlefield hosted more than 20,000 Union and Confederate troops, including United States Colored Troops. It is now protected by the National Park Service.
Vicksburg National Military Park
Vicksburg attracts visitors worldwide. The park contains 141 cannons and carriages, 15 historic bridges, nine fortifications, and the USS Cairo Gunboat & Museum. It also features the Vicksburg National Cemetery and over 1,400 memorials.
Plan Your Mississippi Civil War Itinerary
Whether you’re mapping out multiple battlefield visits or seeking recommendations, Visit Mississippi is ready to help. Contact our team for personalized guidance, tour‑guide bookings, or use our online trip planner.
