News
VNMP to host 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry experience
VICKSBURG, Miss. – 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 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry (USCC.) Come 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 3rd USCC has powerful stories to share, and this will be unique learning experience for all ages.”
Schedule of Programming – Friday June 7 and Saturday June 8
- 9 AM: Bugle call for reveille, flag raising, and inspection of the troops.
- 9 AM-4 PM: 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 PM: Sharps carbine firing demonstration and Retreat will be sounded.
The event is free. No entrance fee will be required. An entrance pass will still be required to access the tour road.
The 3rd United States Colored Cavalry was originally formed in October 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi as the 1st Mississippi Cavalry Regiment (African Descent). In March 1864, they were renamed the 3rd 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)