Mississippi Thespians

The Mississippi Thespians is a student initiated and student led living history re-enactment group. This troupe of knowledgeable and talented young people desires to promote interest in the history of our great country focusing, in particular, on the period of the Civil War. These young scholars immerse themselves in learning more about our inheritance, but rather to experience it by re-enacting and assuming the persona of individuals who actually lived at this moment in time. We are very proud of our heritage and our goal is, to the best of our ability, interpret this wonderful birthright, not embellish or fantasize it.

People often ask why we named our group the Mississippi Thespians. At the time of the Civil War, the Mississippi River was the single most important economic feature of the continent- the very livelihood of America. The name Thespians was chosen because traveling troupes of entertainers, or thespians, including musicians, singers, and actors, made their living by performing to audiences.

We welcome anyone who believes in this great adventure to join us. God bless the U.S.A.!

Did you Know? Thomas O. Selfridge, Captain of the U. S Cairo, commanded three boats which sank during the Civil War. Each began with the letter C-Cumberland, Cairo and Conestoga. The coincidence was noted after the Conestoga sank. Selfridge was assigned to the U. S. Osage which survived until the end of the war.