Talk With History: Discover Your History Road Trip

Vicksburg History Beyond the Battlefield

Sep 23, 2024

Explore the rich history of Vicksburg, Mississippi, from its founding by Newitt Vick to its role in the Civil War. Discover its claim to fame as the first bottler of Coca-Cola and the origins of the teddy bear nickname tied to Theodore Roosevelt. Uncover the tragedy of the Sultana steamboat disaster and the haunted tales of the McRaven House. With vibrant murals and modern attractions, Vicksburg is a tapestry of history waiting to be explored beyond the battlefield.

24:20

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Quick takeaways

Vicksburg was founded in 1825 by Newett Vick's family and grew into a crucial commercial center during the Civil War.

The city features modern attractions like the Coca-Cola Museum and historical murals that narrate significant events, including the teddy bear origin.

Deep dives

The Visionary Founder of Vicksburg

Newett Vick, a Methodist minister from Virginia, purchased land in the Mississippi area in 1811, envisioning it as a bustling river port that would facilitate trade between the Mississippi River and the interior of the state. Although he succumbed to the Elle fever in 1819 before his dream could be realized, his family, particularly his son-in-law John Lane, pursued his vision, leading to the official establishment of Vicksburg in 1825. The town's ideal location on a high bluff overlooking the river provided natural defenses and easy access to river trade, which attracted cotton planters who began to rely on Vicksburg as a key shipping point. Over time, Vicksburg morphed into an important commercial center, playing a pivotal role in American history, particularly during the Civil War.

Intro

2min

Exploring Vicksburg: A Hidden Historical Gem

2min

Vicksburg: History and Modern Charm

4min

The Sultana Disaster: A Maritime Tragedy

3min

Vicksburg: A Tapestry of History and Haunts

12min

Protect History Now with American Battlefield Trust

Hosts Scott and Jennifer dive into the fascinating history of Vicksburg, Mississippi. The discussion starts with the town's founding by Newitt Vick in the early 19th century, its rapid growth as a river port, and its significant role during the Civil War. Highlights include Vicksburg's distinction as the first place where Coca-Cola was bottled, the origin of the teddy bear nickname from Theodore Roosevelt's hunting trip, and the devastating Sultana steamboat disaster. The episode also touches on lesser-known yet intriguing historic sites like the Anchuca mansion and McRaven house, along with modern attractions such as the Vicksburg waterfront murals and the Coca-Cola Museum.

🎥 Traveling to Vicksburg video

🎥 Inside the Civil War Confederate White House

🎥 Jefferson Davis prison cell

📍 Historic Vicksburg Map Locations

00:00 The Vision of Newt Vick: Founding of Vicksburg

01:36 Introduction to Talk with History Podcast

01:54 Listener Shoutouts and Podcast Growth

02:23 Exploring Vicksburg: Beyond the Battlefield

03:18 Discovering Downtown Vicksburg

05:03 Historical Murals and Teddy Roosevelt's Bear Hunt

07:42 The Sultana Disaster: A Forgotten Tragedy

10:30 Jefferson Davis and His Vicksburg Connection