The Art of Vicksburg: Public art remains important part of the landscape in this Mississippi River town

Photo by Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau The H.C. Porter Gallery is one of two downtown galleries that are part of the art scene in Vicksburg, which has more public art than any other city in Mississippi.

The Art of Vicksburg

Public art remains important part of the landscape in this beautiful Mississippi River town

For CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

Vicksburg sits on the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River, and while the scenic beauty is a work of art in itself, there is much more to take in here.

From its vivid waterfront murals to centuries-old sculptures memorializing earlier times, Vicksburg is filled with art.

Located just 45 miles west of Jackson and 75 miles north of Natchez, Vicksburg sits at the intersection of Interstate 20 and historic U.S. Highway 61. This diverse river city combines a vibrant downtown shopping and dining district, beautiful historic homes, a host of outdoor activities and nationally recognized historic sites. In addition, it is home to more public art than anyplace else in Mississippi. Riverfront murals

Downtown, the stories of Vicksburg are told in the collection of 32 vibrant riverfront murals (1200 Levee Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183) painted on the flood walls of Levee Street. These vivid paintings depict the people and happenings that built this city and shaped its future.

The initial mural, an abstract depicting important local influences by Vicksburg artist Martha Ferris, was painted along the floodwall in 2001. Since then, 32 pictorial murals by Robert Dafford, illustrating periods of history in Vicksburg, have been added. History buffs will also enjoy visiting downtown museums which also tell the important stories of Vicksburg.

Downtown galleries

The Attic Gallery (1101 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-638-9221) is the oldest independent art gallery in Mississippi. With a collection that ranges from Southern folk art to contemporary fine art and selections of hand-crafted pottery, jewelry and more, this is so much more than a home-town gallery. At the nearby H.C. Porter Gallery (1216 Washington Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601661-9444) the works of Porter, a Mississippi native, are on display. She features mixed media, incorporating printing, photography and printmaking. Porter’s pieces have been displayed from Mississippi to France. Vicksburg National Military Park

Vicksburg National Military Park (3201 Clay Street Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601636-0583) has been called the “art park of the world.” It is home to more than 1,400 monuments and memorials, many dating back more than 100 years. This unique landscape offers an opportunity to appreciate not only the historic and military significance of the site, but also the amazing stone and bronze work created by some of the most renowned American sculptors of the era. Tiffany glass

Vicksburg’s Church of the Holy Trinity (900 South Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180; 601636-0542) completed in 1880, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, has 14 stained glass windows that line the left and right sides of the sanctuary. What is most remarkable is that, of those, six are authentic Tiffany originals that date back to the late 19th century.

The Tiffany windows, it is said, replaced original clear glass windows and were paid for primarily by contributions from parishioners as memorials to loved ones. Additional stained glass includes a set of five known as the Reconciliation Windows, designed to honor the soldiers, from both the north and south, who died in battle during the Siege of Vicksburg. Vicksburg architecture

Two commercial buildings not only offer examples of outstanding architectural feats, but also house museums where visitors can learn about many facets of Vicksburg’s fascinating history. The Old Warren County Courthouse sits high on the Vicksburg landscape and has been dubbed the most historic building in the city. It has been named one of the 20 most outstanding courthouses in the United States by the American Institute of Architects. It is now home to the Old Court House Museum (1008 Cherry Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39183; 601-636-0741).

The Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad Station is a prime example of Colonial Revival architecture. It is also home to The Old Depot Museum (1010 Levee Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39183; 601-638-6500).

Vicksburg’s residential buildings represent a wide range of architectural styles. These buildings trace the history of the city from its early beginnings through its most prosperous days at the turn of the century and then on into the mid-twentieth century. Where to stay

Vicksburg offers a host of lodging options. From a full complement of national and local hotel properties to a mix of casino hotels, there is variety to meet every need. In addition, a collection of unique bed and breakfasts offer their unique opportunities to experience the hospitality–and in many cases learn more about the history–of this amazing city on the river.

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