R--HISTORIC RESEARCH ON 130 VETERANS AT VICKSBURG NAT

The contractor is tasked with conducting a comprehensive historical research study focused on 130 known United States Colored Troops (USCT) veterans buried at Vicksburg National Military Park. This effort involves providing all necessary personnel, equipment, and resources to gather detailed biographical data, including names, occupations, birth and death dates, military and pension records, and other relevant life information. A qualified historian with a Ph.D. will collaborate closely with a professional genealogist to identify and contact living descendants, ensuring the collection of accurate and complete historical data. The study is critical for fulfilling legal obligations outlined in a 2023 Memorandum of Agreement between the park and the State Historic Preservation Office, which aims to address the impacts of landslides that led to the disinterment of 102 veteran graves from 2020-2021. The research must adhere to professional standards in methodology, writing, and documentation, following the Chicago Manual of Style, to produce a report that supports preservation and memorialization efforts. This contract is set aside exclusively for small businesses under the SBA total small business set-aside program and is managed by the Department of the Interior’s Office in Tupelo, Mississippi. The solicitation was posted on July 25, 2025, with responses due by August 8, 2025. The project underscores the importance of meticulous historical documentation to honor the contributions of these veterans and ensure compliance with preservation and legal requirements. The designated point of contact for inquiries is Dallas Harper-Staub, reachable via email or phone.