The Mississippi River has long played a part in the historical, economic and residential development of our featured town of Vicksburg. The town rapidly grew to a center of commerce, agriculture and river traffic. During the Civil War the south remained intact as long as the river stayed open.

On April 26, 1876 the fickle Mississippi River accomplished what the Union Army could not do in thirteen years prior, the river changed course and left the banks of Vicksburg. The economic effect on the city was devastating. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers helped to develop a plan to divert the Yazoo River south through the former bed of the Mississippi. The diversion project took twenty five years to complete but in 1903 Vicksburg was once again a river city.

Billy White is a resident of the Vicksburg area. We profile him and his unique occupation as a farrier and learn why people like him are disappearing right before our eyes.

Kennith Humphrey was homeless for over two years in Vicksburg. But with great pride and determination he has positioned himself as one the great watercolor artists in the area. He has recently been selected to serve as the official artist for the upcoming International Ballet Competition to be held in Jackson.

The Burrus House in Benoit has been placed on Mississippi's Ten Most Endangered Historic Places List. The home was used as the setting for filming of the 1950's movie "Baby Doll". Vacancy, inadequate maintenance and lack of funds hinder its preservation.

Vicksburg's National Military Park is our stop on this weeks edition of Walt's Way. Walt remembers going there on a school field trip as a child and some of the thoughts and feelings that this sacred ground conveys to him.

(top of page)