Wilsons Creek National Battlefield
Springfield, MO
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Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is the location of the initial significant battle in what would later be known as the Civil War. The triumph of the Confederates on August 10, 1861 brought national attention to this small town and ultimately resulted in increased federal military action in Missouri.
Preserving the first major Civil War battle west of The Mississippi, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield offers visitors the opportunity to gain insight into the conditions faced by soldiers on both sides of the conflict. Additionally, the site provides a unique glimpse into history through its collection of artifacts, which are exclusive to this location.
Spanning 1,750 acres, Wilson’s Creek remains largely unchanged since the battle took place over 140 years ago. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of preservationists across generations, visitors can experience this historic setting in near-perfect condition.
The battle at Wilson's Creek on August 10th, 1861, involved approximately 5,400 Union troops facing off against 12,000 Confederate warriors. This confrontation sparked uprisings in southern Missouri and other surrounding areas, including Tennessee Passes into Kentucky territory, where battles were fought from July 11 to September 1862. Eventually, the battlefield ended up in near-perfect condition.
The Wilson's Creek Battlefield National Battlefield, located near Republic, Missouri, now preserves the site of this historic battle. Occurring on August 10, 1861, it was the first significant conflict of the American Civil War west of the Mississippi River. Led by Benjamin McCulloch and Sterling Price, the Confederate army emerged victorious against a weaker Union force commanded by Nathaniel Lyon. However, the Confederates were unable to maintain control over much of Missouri, and the Union's triumph at the Battle of Pea Ridge solidified their authority over the state.
In the early months of 1861, President Abraham Lincoln requested that Missouri enlist four regiments to fight against the Confederate States of America. However, Governor Claiborne F. Jackson chose not to comply and instead planned to send the Missouri State Guard to seize a government arsenal in St. Louis. As a result of Union commander Nathaniel Lyon's decisive actions against the pro-Confederate Guard, Jackson was removed from his position as head of the formal government. Lyon's Union force drove the Missouri State Guard out of St. Louis, and they retreated towards Springfield in southwest Missouri, now under the leadership of Sterling Price.