Nonprofit Efforts Ensure Accessibility to Vicksburg National Military Park Amid Government Shutdown

Tue Oct 21 2025 22:37:21 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign take action to fund park access during the government shutdown, aiming to protect this historical site.

In response to the current government shutdown, the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign have committed $2,000 a day to keep the park open. This initiative aims to protect the site from vandalism and upkeep, providing essential services despite reduced federal staffing. The nonprofit's efforts echo similar actions taken during the last government shutdown in 2018, demonstrating the ongoing importance of public engagement in preserving historical sites like Vicksburg.

DENVER (AP) — The Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign have once again stepped up to ensure accessibility to one of Mississippi's most cherished cultural landmarks during the ongoing government shutdown. Committing $2,000 a day, the nonprofit organization aims to keep the historic Civil War battlefield open despite federal operational delays.

Vicksburg National Military Park, known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, is home to over 18,000 graves from various conflicts, making its preservation essential. Bess Averett, executive director of the organization, stressed the vulnerability of the park during periods of federal inaction. Without staffing, the park becomes susceptible to acts of vandalism and unauthorized relic hunting, she noted.

The Park Service's contingency plan allows parks to partner with local organizations and Native American tribes to maintain basic operations during government shutdowns. This partnership exemplifies community engagement in historical preservation.

Supporters of various national parks across the nation, including in West Virginia, have also pledged resources to keep visitors' centers open, contributing to efforts to protect national heritage sites during these challenging times.

Some areas of the Vicksburg site remained limited in access due to the closure of certain facilities; however, visitors still benefitted from the park's historical significance as families like that of Hayley Smith brought their children to learn about U.S. history. It’s a huge thing for these kids to be able to see the history and learn about our national parks,” she remarked.

Other nonprofits across the country, including those operating in Hawaii, have similarly taken the initiative to fund park operations. The Pacific Historic Parks organization is working to keep the Pearl Harbor National Memorial open amid the shutdown by fundraising from local stakeholders, with an operational cost estimated at roughly $9,000 a day.

The broader impact of this shutdown illustrates the reliance on both government funding and community commitment to protect these landmarks. Past experiences of damage during previous shutdowns underscore the importance of such efforts, prompting national advocacy groups to encourage protective measures for all national parks.