Civil War in Natchez: Fort McPherson

On March 18, 1865, Henry Gurney ventured out to the northernmost point of Union battlements at Fort McPherson, just north of downtown Natchez. This point encompassed the impressive United States Marine Hospital, later known as the Natchez City Hospital and Charity Hospital.

Captain Samuel Glyde Swain, head engineer of Fort McPherson, made note of Gurney's presence in his journal. He wrote, "Discovered a photographer taking views of Battery Ransom. I warned him against his taking any more and forbid him printing those he had until I could see them." Captain Swain's next entry on March 19 mentioned his visit to Gurney's studio. It is unknown if the photograph was approved or confiscated, but it is the only remaining image of Fort McPherson.