This Story Continues...
This Story Is Yours, Too.
The stories along this trail are not just about the past. They live on in families, schools, neighborhoods, and churches. They live in you.
The Knowledge Tree
At Myrlie Evers Civil Rights Park, the Knowledge Tree sculpture symbolizes how history branches forward. Each story is a root or branch, growing into something larger than itself.
Built by Community
This trail was imagined and built by local residents, artists, historians, and youth who believed Vicksburg’s stories needed to be told. Every marker and illustration reflects community voices.
How You Can Keep It Going
• Share your family’s history with younger generations.
• Support local museums, archives, and cultural groups.
• Join organizations that promote equity, health, and justice.
The Knowledge Tree reminds us that history is not fixed — it grows as each person adds their story.
Acknowledgments
- City of Vicksburg: Mayor Willis Thompson; Alderman TJ Mayfield; Alderwoman Vickie Bailey
- Shape Up Mississippi Board of Directors: Corin Morrison, Donna Ingram, James Fondren, Brig. Gen. Robert Crear, Barbara Tolliver, Joey Halinski, Bill Justice, Linda Fondren
- City of Vicksburg (past leadership): Mayor George Flaggs, Jr.; Alderman Michael Mayfield, Sr.; Jeff Richardson
- Catfish Row Museum
- LF Voices Collective – Lauchlin Fields
- Dr. Toni Lowe and the founding committee
- Entergy
- Mississippi Public Service Commission
- Sheriff Martin Pace
- Mississippi Arts Commission
- Mississippi Humanities Council
- MDAH – Brother Rogers
- Dr. Beth Kruse
- Ricky’s Welding – Josh Cole