Mississippi River Tour (July 4th cont.)

It was a very leisurely 1.5 hour tour. While the tour guide shared some history and interesting facts, it really was more about enjoying The Mighty Mississippi.

We saw many barges and tugboats chugging along. Vicksburg acts as a massive supply "stop" for a lot of carriers. I say "stop" because the system they use to do this is quite fascinating. Carriers send word ahead of what they need and there are boats in Vicksburg waiting for them. These boats carry mail, months of groceries, gas, mechanical parts, medical supplies and care as well as numerous other items that can be requested. The boats go out to the barges and service them so that the barge never has to dock or even slow down. Its a moving resupply stop!

When you look down at the water, you are reminded of its strength. Just look at these currents... (and no, those aren't generated by any boat!!)

As we went under a bridge, he told us that this set of bridges were the MOST hit along the Mississippi. Because there is a bend in the river there, it often makes it difficult for boats carrying a heavy load to make the turn. You can see dents and scratches in the cement pillars. He also said that very often barges and their cargo will sink. Because of the depth of the water, the traffic and the currents they are usually left at the bottom of the river until it goes down. Its is very consuming process of both time and money to pull them up!

We saw lots of people camping out along the shore and on sand bars. They were enjoying their holiday weekend and getting ready to watch the fireworks. My Mom shared many memories of doing the same thing during her youth.

We also saw an awesome sunset. It was a nice way to end a lazy boat tour.

As we headed back to the dock, we passed the fireworks barge. That was our cue that they were setting up for the show!!!
We made our way back to the car to get water and our lawn chairs. The area was now packed with a spectators, kids running around with flags, tailgaters and ice chests. There was a local band playing to keep folks entertained until the sun went down. We found a place high up so that we could make a quick escape to the car to beat some of the traffic.

They put on quite a show from that barge. All the fireworks went out over the river and they went on forever!!! I took pictures but they didn't come out very well.

After enjoying the show, we drove to Jackson and spent the night in a hotel. After breakfast the next morning, my parents took me to the Jackson airport for my flight home. It was a great trip. It was a nice mixture of lazy relaxation and touristy fun. We even threw in a little educational history too!!! Thanks again Mom and Dad... I love you!