Travel Information for Mississippi
Posted By:
Travel Commune Staff
on 13 December, 2006
Visions of Mississippi immediately bring to mind sweeping plantations and beautiful antebellum homes. The thoughts conjure memories of Civil War battles that you studied in school, and the struggle of civil rights. While Mississippi can lay claim to such an illustrious past, it is so much more than old history lessons. While the antique aspects of Mississippi can lend to a wonderful vacation, the more modern aspects bring the 20th and 21st centuries to the state.
Beginning with some relics from the past commemorating Mississippi's tumultuous history, we come first to the Vicksburg National Military Park. This park commemorates the siege and fall of Vicksburg, which proved to be one of the most important events during the Civil War. The park is home to over 1,300 monuments, a 16 mile stretch of road available for tours, a restored Union gunboat, and a National Cemetery. When this park was established in 1899 it became a haven for those looking to memorialize relatives who fought in the war. Today, relatives still visit, in addition to those who want to pay their respects and learn a little bit about this state's history. The Springfield Plantation is believed by some to be the first mansion built in Mississippi. This unique place has been a working plantation for more than 200 years. It is now home to Civil War equipment and railroad memorabilia. An interesting side note, this mansion was the site of President Andrew Jackson's wedding.
From the old to the new, we come to unarguably, one of the most visited places in all of Mississippi. That's right; I'm talking about the birthplace of 'The King.' Elvis made his humble beginnings in a small town in Mississippi. His birthplace and childhood home is now home to a museum that chronicles his life and career. Also on the grounds are a gift shop, park, and memorial chapel.
Mississippi is also home to some wonderful patrons of the arts. Ballet Mississippi has been operating since 1964 and has become one of the premier ballet companies in the state. Each year a full length production of the Nutcracker is performed, along with other favorite productions. There is also a school in the company which grooms young dancers for a life on the stage. There is also the Mississippi Opera which has been operating for over 60 years. This opera company has the distinction of being the 11th oldest continually production company in the U.S. The amazing talent that graces their stages keeps audiences coming back time after time.
With an amazing, past, presents, and future before it, the state of Mississippi is a testament to hard work and resilience. This state rose from the ashes of the Civil War to become a mecca for the arts. From historical to modern, the sights of Mississippi will keep you in the great state far longer than your plans will allow.
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