In honor of the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, we will be highlighting collections related to the military history of Mississippi and veterans who served the state beginning with the territorial militia in 1797 through World War II (the most recent engagement for which we have collections). Special thanks to Jim Pitts, of the MDAH Government Records section, for compiling the military records and their descriptions and to Nan Prince, Museum Division, for compiling the artifacts.

Plan of the Battle of Buena Vista, 1847. Call Number: MA/86.0009(b) MDAH Collection

Mississippi sent three regiments to battle during the War with Mexico, which began in 1846 over a border dispute with Mexico. Important historical figures such as John A. Quitman and Jefferson Davis gained distinction as a result of the war. The map above depicts the pivotal Battle of Buena Vista, where Davis was wounded.

MDAH also holds the compiled service records of soldiers who served in Mississippi regiments in the War with Mexico on microfilm.

Captured Mexican general's saddle housing. Accession Number: 1960.10.1 (Museum of Mississippi History Collection)

This red velvet saddle housing or Shabraque, was captured by General John Quitman’s command at the Battle of Chapultepec during the Mexican War. Varying reports say that it belonged to General Saldana or General Valencia. Quitman brought the saddle home to Mississippi, and it remained with his family until they donated it to MDAH in 1916.

Artifacts in the collection of the Museum of Mississippi History are available for viewing by appointment only. Please contact Cindy Gardner, Director of Collections or Nan Prince, Asst. Director of Collections by email to schedule an appointment.