An Early Battlefield Visit Key Battlefields from the Civil War’s First Years 1 Start in Boonville The First Battle of Boonville took place June 17, 1861. Though little more than a skirmish, it is considered by many to be the first battle of the Civil War. The rapid mobilization of Union forces surprised and defeated the secessionists, who abandoned the Missouri River and fled south. A historical marker and interpretive sign are located near 1216 East Morgan St. Boonville was also the scene of three other engagements during the War. Historic Thespian Hall was used as a hospital and barracks. Boonville to Liberty. Go west on I-70 from Boonville. Just a few miles north of I-70 on Hwy K (Exit 89) is Blackwater. Bucksnort Trading Company here has Civil War era clothing and paraphernalia. Continue west on I-70 to Exit 49. Go north on Hwy 13 to Higginsville. Just north of town is the Confederate Memorial State Historic Site, once home to the Confederate Soldiers Home of Missouri. Visit the restored chapel and cemetery and learn about the role the Home played in post-Civil War Missouri. Continue north on Hwy 13 to Lexington The Battle of Lexington, Sept. 17-19, 1861, was the third-largest battle of the War in 1861. Gen. Sterling Price and his Missouri State Guards surrounded and captured Federal forces defending the Missouri River crossing. At the State Historic Site, a video and museum explain how it became known as the “Battle of the Hemp Bales.” The Lexington Historical Museum also has Civil War artifacts. Audio Tours highlighting Lexington’s Civil War history are available at the Lexington Tourism Bureau. An Early Go west from Lexington on Hwy 24 to Hwy 131. Go south on Hwy 131 to Hwy 50, then west to Lone Jack. Battlefield The Battle of Lone Jack was fought Aug. 15-16, 1862, resulting in an estimated 270 casualties. This was a Confederate victory, but the secessionists had to evacuate the area soon afterward, when threatened by the In the tense months approach of large Union forces. The Lone Jack Civil War Museum has a variety of displays, including artifacts after the firing on Fort from the battle and photos of men who fought there. Sumter on April 14, 1861, it was an open question Continue west on Hwy 50 to Lee’s Summit, then north on as to whether Missouri Hwy 291 to Liberty. 0n April 20, 1861, just eight days after the would stay in the Union firing on Fort Sumter, secessionists captured the U.S. Army’s or join the Confederacy. Liberty Arsenal. A historic marker is located at the junction of Hwy 291 South, Southview Drive, and Seven Hills Road. Federal forces and troops On Sept. 17, 1861, in the Battle of Liberty (also known as the supporting secession Battle of Blue Mills Landing), Union forces unsuccessfully tried clashed in several key to keep pro-Confederate Missouri State Guards from crossing battles in the Old Trails the Missouri River to reinforce Sterling Price at Lexington. Region. James Country Mercantile, 111 N. Main in historic downtown Liberty, is a leading purveyor of Civil War military and civilian clothing and goods. Before you go: Note that some shops, restaurants and attractions are closed on Sundays, Mondays or other days or are only open seasonally. If you have a “must-see” destination, be sure to call ahead to check hours and directions. Bed-and-breakfasts usually require advance reservations. New Adventures at Every Turn. Old Trails Regional Partnership • 1128 Main Street, Lexington, MO 64067 660.259.2230 • [email protected] • www.OldTrails.net.