Fun Fact Friday with Special Collections

This week we are highlighting the Battle of Port Hudson. On May 22, 1863, the siege of Port Hudson began. Port Hudson was a Confederate stronghold and was the final engagement in the Union’s campaign to recapture the Mississippi River in the Civil War. This siege helped to enhance the reputation of black soldiers in Union service.

On May 27, 1863, The Louisiana Guard fought with the Union in the battle. The initial attack was repelled, but the Louisiana Guard, formed and led by Andre Caillioux, a free man of color from New Orleans, was instrumental in the siege. He unfortunately died leading his troops into battle, but he was given a hero’s burial in New Orleans in July of 1863.

The siege lasted 48 days and resulted in over 10,000 dead or wounded. This proved to be a turning point in the war. The capture of Port Hudson and the surrender of Vicksburg gave the Union complete control of the Mississippi River and all its major tributaries.

More information can be found in Special Collections, especially:

• The Guns of Port Hudson, Volumes 1 and 2
• Port Hudson: Its History from and Interior Point of View
• Life and Letters of Capt. David D. Hoag: Who Fell in the Siege of Port Hudson, June 14, 1863
• Port Hudson, Confederate Bastion on the Mississippi

This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. This is a day for us to remember those who have died fighting for our freedom. Let us take a few moments to remember those who have fought so hard and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

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Fun Fact Friday is brought to you by Special Collections.

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