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Andy Thomas
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Contact: Kristine Abbey, 417-732-2662 x231
Republic, Mo. – Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield will host a public ceremony at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2020, to commemorate the 159th anniversary of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.The brief outdoor ceremony will take place at Tour Stop 5, where the park will provide limited seating with adequate social distancing. The ceremony is free, as entrance fees continue to be waived during the visitor center renovation.
Acting Superintendent Gary Sullivan will give remarks about the battle anniversary, provide an update on the ongoing renovation of the visitor center and museum. NPS staff in period dress representing the Union and Missouri State Guard will place a wreath in honor of the soldiers of both sides who fought and died in the battle. No reenactment of the battle will take place.
Guests should bring water with them, as no potable water is available in the park. A restroom trailer, portable restrooms, and a hand sanitizing station are available in the main entrance parking lot, but facilities are not available at Tour Stop 5.
Visitors can learn more about the Battle of Wilson’s Creek in “Brief Account of the Battle,” available on the park website, and “Battle of Wilson’s Creek” on the Greene County Library website “Community and Conflict: The Impact of the Civil War in the Ozarks.”
The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
The National Park Service encourages you to follow CDC guidance:
- Practice social distancing. Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between you and others.
- Wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- If you feel sick, please visit another day.
Learn more about the NPS Recreate Responsibly campaign, which provides information about best practices to keep visitors, staff, and park resources safe while limiting the spread of COVID-19.
Wilson’s Creek also offers virtual tours and digital educational materials for Wilsons’ Creek National Battlefield. Check out the virtual tour page and the Virtual Civil War digital curriculum materials on our website.
Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield website at https://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm and Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Wilsons-Creek-National-Battlefield-140802912626881/posts/?ref=page_internal.
Updates about NPS operations will be posted on https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/public-health-update.htm.
Administered by the National Park Service, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield preserves the site of the first major battle of the Civil War in the West. The Confederate victory on August 10, 1861, focused greater national attention on the war in Missouri, leading to greater federal military action.
Wilson’s Creek Administrative Office is located 10 miles southwest of Springfield, Missouri at 5242 S. State Hwy ZZ, Republic, Missouri 65738.
Last updated: September 3, 2020