Ancient Road In Mississippi That’s Loaded With Fascinating History
The Natchez Trace Parkway might be the most famous historic route in the state, but it’s not the only one. Old Bridgeport Road is another. Unchanged since the 1800s and loaded with history, it’s one of the state’s best relics from the past.
In 1822, the state legislature recognized the need for a route from the capital, Jackson, to the Mississippi River in Vicksburg, and so, Old Bridgeport Road was built.
Using Old Bridgeport Road, a stagecoach travelled between Jackson and Vicksburg, twice a day.
The road saw exceptionally large crowds in 1865, when it was used by Union soldiers on their way to board the Sultana.
When news of the road’s impending demolition spread, it was named one of "the top 10 most endangered historic Mississippi properties." Not only is the road itself historically significant, but it abuts a recognized Native American site, a Union Army camp, and the Holly Grove Plantation.
Luckily, the Mississippi Heritage Trust deemed Old Bridgeport Road a landmark, and as a designated landmark, the 19th century road, which has never been paved, widened, or straightened, will remain in its original state for the foreseeable future.
Luckily, the Mississippi Heritage Trust deemed Old Bridgeport Road a landmark, and as a designated landmark, the 19th century road, which has never been paved, widened, or straightened, will remain in its original state for the foreseeable future.
Wow! So much history has unfolded along this historic route! Want to know the exact locale of Old Bridgeport Road? Click here to view it on a map.
So, did you know about Old Bridgeport Road? Know of another historic roadway in the state? Tell us!
This isn’t the only pathway in the state that’s steeped in history. Click here to read about another.
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Address: Old Bridgeport Road, Old Bridgeport Rd, Mississippi 39041, USA
