Southwest Civil War Tour

Southwest Missouri holds some of the most significant Civil War sites in Missouri.

Day 1
Begin the day in the city of Springfield at the History Museum of Springfield-Greene County. This museum features many historical pieces and interesting details about the area. An entire section of the museum is dedicated to Civil War information and artifacts. A highlight of the Museum is the only known full-length portrait of Union Major Charles Zagonyi. The engagement held at Springfield on Oct. 25, 1861, known as Zagonyi's Charge, was the only Union victory in southwestern Missouri during 1861.

On Jan. 8, 1863, another battle took place in Springfield. At the time, Springfield was an important communications post for Union forces. The approaching Confederate army wanted to destroy the post, but the engagement resulted in a Union victory, which allowed continued control over the area. Interpretive panels follow the paths of both battles in the Springfield area. A Civil War historical marker tour map can be viewed at: http://www.ci.springfield.mo.us/images/transportimages/civilwar.gif

The next stop is the Springfield National Cemetery. Several monuments have been erected to pay tribute to the many casualties, of the Civil War. Union memorial reaches 25 feet tall and features a statue of a soldier. Also situated in the cemetery is a monument to Confederate Gen. Sterling Price. It is adorned with a 10-foot tall bronze statue.

Day 2
Day two, start just south of Springfield in the suburb of Republic. The town of Republic hosted the first major battle west of the Mississippi River. The Battle of Wilson's Creek occurred on Aug. 10, 1861, resulting in a Confederate victory, giving them temporary control over southwest Missouri.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield is an excellent preservation of Missouri's Civil War history. A variety of buildings and locations near the bloody battlefield have been accurately restored and preserved. Living history programs depicting soldier life, cavalry drills, musket firing, and artillery drills can be experienced during the summer months. Travelers should stop at the visitor's center to learn more about the guided tours and upcoming special events.

Newtonia lies just southwest of Springfield and is home to the Newtonia Battlefield Park. Newtonia witnessed two battles during the Civil War. The first occurred on Sept. 30, 1862, resulting in a Confederate victory; the second took place Oct. 28, 1864, resulting in a Union victory. Today the park contains Civil War era homes, interpretive displays, and a wonderfully preserved battle area.

Day 3
While heading toward Carthage, visitors should stop in the small town of Diamond. Diamond is the home of famous Missourian George Washington Carver. Carver was born into slavery during the peak of warfare in southern Missouri. He became famous for his contributions to science, particularly regarding uses for peanuts and peanut products. The George Washington Carver National Monument features many displays outlining Carver's career and contributions.

From Diamond, move north to Carthage. The Battle of Carthage State Historic Site recalls July 5, 1861, and one of the skirmishes that happened early in the Civil War. Battle highlights and information can be found at an information kiosk located in the area.

The Civil War Museum in Carthage contains artifacts and information about southwest Missouri. A large mural painted by Andy Thomas features the battle that occurred in the area. The museum contains displays outlining contributions by African Americans and American Indians.

During the Civil War, almost all buildings in Carthage were burned by guerrilla raiders and bushwhackers. Kendrick House, used as command headquarters by both Union and Confederate forces, survived and has been restored to its pre-Civil War appearance. Living history tours are given from April to December.