About the Friends

The Friends of Vicksburg helps ensure the history and lessons of the Vicksburg Campaign remain visible and meaningful. From preserving monuments to supporting educational programs, we’re dedicated to keeping this story alive for generations to come.

The Friends of Vicksburg was founded in 2008 to serve as the official non-profit partner of Vicksburg National Military Park (VNMP). We believe that preserving this hallowed ground is not just about honoring history — it’s about keeping the story alive for every visitor, today and for generations to come.

We partner with passionate volunteers, donors, and community members who share our commitment to conserving and enhancing the battlefield and its historic surroundings. Together, we support projects that bring the Vicksburg Campaign’s legacy into sharper focus — from restoring monuments and historic markers, to improving visitor access, to creating educational experiences for students and families.

Through these efforts, we work to ensure that everyone who visits VNMP can fully appreciate the courage, sacrifice, and strategic impact that shaped the outcome of the Civil War. Because while the events took place over 160 years ago, their resonance and importance remain deeply relevant — and we’re dedicated to safeguarding that legacy today.

If you value history, education, and the enduring power of remembering, we hope you’ll join us in supporting this meaningful work.

We help preserve the tangible reminders of bravery and perseverance of soldiers, sailors and citizens involved in the struggle for Vicksburg.

President Abraham Lincoln referred to this campaign as the “key” to victory in the Civil War. Our goal is for visitors to the region to experience and understand the impact of the people and events that comprised the most strategic and decisive campaign on the Civil War.

Our 501(c)3 non-profit organization is the official partner organization for VNMP.  All tax deductible donations work to help us enhance the battlefield and promote public appreciation for the history it symbolizes.  While the park’s basic operations are funded by the National Park Service, many features and programs that visitors enjoy most are made possible through private funds from generous donors like you, including the important work on maintaining one of the nation’s largest collections of sculptures, monuments, markers, and tablets. Friends of VNMP is committed to the park and the public it is designed to serve.