Bill Text: MS HR11 | 2025 | Regular Session | Engrossed

Mississippi House Resolution 11

Bill Title: City of Vicksburg; commend upon the occasion of the Bicentennial Anniversary of its incorporation.

Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 2-1)

Status: (Passed) 2025-02-05 - Immediate Release [HR11 Detail]

Download: Mississippi-2025-HR11-Engrossed.html

MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2025 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Representatives Ford (54th), Denton, Harness

House Resolution 11

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE RICH AND HISTORICAL LEGACY OF THE CITY OF VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI, AND CONGRATULATING THE CITY UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS BICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY, ACKNOWLEDGING 200 YEARS OF HISTORY AND PROGRESS.

WHEREAS, incorporated on January 29, 1825, the City of Vicksburg, Mississippi, celebrates its Bicentennial Anniversary on January 29, 2025, marking 200 years of historical, cultural and economic significance as a vital part of Mississippi's heritage; and

WHEREAS, strategically located along the Mississippi River, Vicksburg has played an integral role in the historical, economic, and residential development of the state, quickly becoming a center for commerce, agriculture, and transportation in the early 19th century; and

WHEREAS, in the 19th century, river travel along the Mississippi was fraught with danger due to treacherous conditions, prompting federal intervention with the passage of the Steamboat Act of 1838, though the law proved difficult to enforce; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the need for enhanced transportation, Vicksburg became a pioneering hub for railroads in Mississippi, with the establishment of the Vicksburg and Clinton Railroad in 1831, later expanded into the Vicksburg and Meridian Railroad, the first east-west rail line linking Memphis and New Orleans; and

WHEREAS, Vicksburg is renowned for its critical role in American history, particularly as a focal point of the Civil War, where the 1863 Siege of Vicksburg proved to be a turning point in the Union's effort to control the Mississippi River; and

WHEREAS, following the surrender of Confederate forces on July 4, 1863, the city endured hardship during Reconstruction but emerged resilient, rebuilding its levee systems, reviving agricultural production, and witnessing a rebirth of the steamboat industry; and

WHEREAS, in 1899, the United States Congress established the Vicksburg National Military Park, preserving the site of the historic siege and serving as a national monument to those who fought in the Civil War, with 17,000 Union soldiers, including 13,000 unknown, laid to rest within its grounds; and

WHEREAS, in 1873, the Army Corps of Engineers established a permanent presence in Vicksburg, leading to the city's long-standing prominence in river management and flood control efforts, which remain vital to the region's economy and infrastructure today; and

WHEREAS, the shifting course of the Mississippi River in 1876 threatened Vicksburg's economy, but through federal and local efforts, including the Yazoo River Diversion Project, the city re-established itself as a thriving river port and continued its economic development into the 20th and 21st centuries; and

WHEREAS, today, Vicksburg stands as a vibrant city that embraces its historical legacy while fostering economic growth, cultural enrichment, and tourism, serving as a premier destination for visitors seeking to explore its museums, historical landmarks, and riverfront attractions; and

WHEREAS, on the occasion of its Bicentennial, the City of Vicksburg, under the leadership of its Mayor and Board of Aldermen, will celebrate 200 years of perseverance, progress and contributions to the State of Mississippi and the nation; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and honor municipalities such as Vicksburg, which have played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the rich and historical legacy of the City of Vicksburg, congratulate the city upon the occasion of its Bicentennial Anniversary, acknowledging 200 years of excellence, and extend best wishes for continued prosperity in the years to come.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Vicksburg and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.