"Removing the Battle Hymn of the Republic? That seems a little unreconstructed, to put it politely.
I remember when Vicksburg didn't celebrate the 4th of July, but I was born in 1967. I believe *regular* public observance didn't begin until 1976, when they hosted a public fireworks display at the new Washington Street Mall, between the two parking garages downtown."

Thanks for the compliment and the clarification on July 4th celebrations in Vicksburg.

Deo Vindice.