Vicksburg National Military Park to host immersive encampment of 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry

On June 7-8, Vicksburg National Military Park and the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign will host an immersive experience by living historians with Buffalo Soldiers Florida Inc., who depict the 3 ^rd U.S. Colored Cavalry (USCC).

Explore a Civil War period cavalry encampment including horses and learn about the honorable service and sacrifices of African American cavalrymen in their fight for freedom during the Civil War.

“We are very excited to bring this program back to the park,” said Superintendent Carrie Mardorf. “The 3 ^rd USCC has powerful stories to share, and this will be a unique learning experience for all ages.”

Schedule of Programming – Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8:
9 a.m.:  Bugle calls for reveille, flag raising, and inspection of the troops.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:  Visitors are encouraged to wander through the camp, ask questions, and listen to the stories 3rd USCC. There will be a video telling the story of the unit playing in one of the tents and a display of period and replica weapons used by the unit.

4 p.m.:  Sharps carbine firing demonstration and Retreat will be sounded.

The Vicksburg National Military Park is located at 3201 Clay Street.

All events are weather-dependent The event is free. No entrance fee will be required. An entrance pass will still be required to access the tour road.

This event is part of the park’s, Under-Told Stories programming.

The 3rd United States Colored Cavalry was originally formed in October 1863 at Vicksburg, as the 1st Mississippi Cavalry Regiment (African Descent).

In March 1864, they were renamed the 3 ^rd U.S. Colored Cavalry.

The unit initially was based in Vicksburg, participating in numerous operations throughout Mississippi and Louisiana including Yazoo City Expedition during 1864.

Next, the regiment served near Memphis, Tennessee, including participation in the Battle of Egypt Station, until April 1865, when they returned to Vicksburg for occupation duties.

The regiment was mustered out of federal service in January 1866. For more details on the regiment: Battle Unit Details – The Civil War (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

For more information on Buffalo Soldiers Florida Inc., and their programming: Buffalo Soldiers Florida | Col. Charles Young Chapter

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History is also hosting an encampment by the group on Wednesday, June 11 in front of the War Memorial Building in downtown Jackson at 120 N State Street, 3rd United States Colored Cavalry Living History Event | Mississippi Department of Archives & History (ms.gov)

Co-Sponsored and funded by the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park & Campaign