Marker to be placed in memory of former Vicksburg mayor

Last updated: October 23, 2026

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The City of Vicksburg Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved the motion for a marker to be place in memory of former Mayor Robert M. Walker.

The city was approached by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Omicron Rho Lambda Chapter for permission to erect a permanent historical marker for former Mayor Robert M. Walker on the city right-of-way located at the corner of Walnut Street and Crawford Street near St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

Terry Steed, President of the fraternity appeared before the Board at the Oct. 12 regular meeting. He appeared again at the regular meeting held Oct. 23, to thank the Board for the marker to be placed.

Born on Jan. 17, 1944, to Robert Walker, Sr., and Anna Mae Weeks Walker in Vicksburg, Walker graduated from Rosa A. Temple High School and then attended Jackson State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degrees in history and political science in 1966.

Two years later, Walker made history for the first time by graduated with master’s degrees in history and political science from the University of Mississippi. He was the first Black person to earn a graduate degree from the institution.

In 1988, Walker made history as the first Black Mayor of Vicksburg, winning a special election and winning the 1989 re-election. In total, he served three terms: from 1988 to 1989, from 1989 to 1993, and from 1997 to 2001.

Walker passed away on July 29, 2025, at the age of 81.

The City of Vicksburg’s annex building is named in his honor.