Contraband Camp in Corinth, Mississippi
Corinth, Mississippi’s historical significance is well-documented and can be explored today by visitors to the area. One of the most popular historical sites is the Corinth Contraband Camp. This attraction honors the site which housed ex-slaves who were provided refuge in Union-occupied Corinth in 1862. Visit Corinth offers deeper insight into the history of Corinth’s contraband camp and what visitors can expect when touring the site today.
Corinth Contraband Camp’s History
During a period when the country was heavily divided, major portions of the South harbored enslaved people. Seeking freedom and protection, those who fled Southern plantations found refuge in Union-occupied Corinth. After President Lincoln issued the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation in September 862, more and more contrabands (formerly enslaved people) converged on Corinth.
To account for the influx of freedom seekers, Union General Grenville M. Dodge, the commander of the Corinth garrison, established the Corinth Contraband Camp. To accommodate residents, the camp was transformed into a small town complete with homes, a church, a school, and a hospital. Many residents of the camp, both children and adults gained the ability to read and learned other valuable skills from the camp’s organized programs.
Through a progressive cooperative farm program, the camp’s four hundred acres of farmland were utilized for farming vegetables and cotton. The harvested produce was sold back to the government and the workers were compensated for their labor. Other residents found employment as cooks, servants, and laundry workers.
Although the Corinth Contraband Camp has modest beginnings, at its height, it was a model of efficiency, enabling approximately 6,000 ex-slaves to establish their own individual identities.
Military Significance
In addition to overseeing the construction of the camp and its farming enterprise, General Dodge saw an opportunity to strengthen the Union’s military efforts. He enlisted, trained, and armed male refugees of the camp and entrusted them with camp security.
Once the Emancipation Proclamation was implemented, newly freed men at the Corinth Contraband Camp would have the opportunity to protect their way of life. This led to the formation of the 1st Alabama Infantry of African Descent. The unit was later designated the 55th United States Colored Infantry.
The Corinth Contraband Camp Today
The Corinth Contraband Camp was the first step on the road to freedom for thousands of former slaves who chose to call Corinth home. Today, the camp is preserved to commemorate the events that took place there and is an ideal attraction for historical enthusiasts.
Guests can visit the Corinth Contraband Camp and explore the historical site. Visitors are able to take it all in as they walk along the camp’s quarter-mile walkway, which exhibits six life-size bronze sculptures. These sculptures depict and celebrate the men, women, and children who inhabited the camp.
Other Civil War Attractions in Corinth, MS
Corinth offers its guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the area’s historical importance with a vast amount of Civil War attractions to explore. Other historical sites worth adding to your itinerary include:
Civil War Interpretative Center: This is a 15,000 sq. ft. facility with interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations illustrating the role Corinth had in the outcome of the Civil War.
Shiloh National Military Park: This is a 12.7-mile stretch where some of the most significant battles of the Civil War took place. Tours include films, artifacts, and other exhibits.
Crossroads Museum: Witness Corinth’s historical railway lines which impacted the war, as well as other significant artifacts.
Corinth Historic Driving Tour: Learn more about Corinth’s Civil War history at your own pace with this driving tour. The tour is comprised of Corinth battle sites, historic homes, landmarks, and museums all connected to the Civil War.
Verandah-Curlee House: Witness the location where Confederate military leaders devised a plan to attack Union troops. The restored home features antiques, paintings, and furnishings from 1892.
Take the Tour in Corinth, MS
The Corinth Contraband Camp honors the site that housed ex-slaves who were provided refuge in Union-occupied Corinth in 1862. Assembled and assisted by the American Missionary Association, these newly freed people established their own community and took their first steps to full citizenship. Guests are welcome to tour this historical site, as well as other Civil War attractions in the area.
Visit Corinth can serve as your personal tour guide for your next trip to Corinth, MS. We will ensure your stay is filled with exciting things to do based on your interests and passions. We can also provide recommendations on the best places to eat in town, as well provide information on upcoming events. Contact us today to begin planning your trip to Corinth.