Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

National Battlefield · MO · nps.gov page

Men in reproduction uniforms talk around a campfire — Living history volunteers act out a scene during the annual Moonlight Tours eventPhoto: Charles Dischinger

Wilson's Creek was the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River, and where the first Union general was killed in action. The costly Southern victory on August 10, 1861, focused national attention on the war in Missouri. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield commemorates and interprets the battle within the context of the war in the Trans-Mississippi West.

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News

Annual Memorial Luminary Tour Returns to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Nov. 7 2026-10-23
REPUBLIC, Mo. — Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield invites the public to the Annual Memorial Luminary Tour Saturday, Nov. 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m. This free event honors the 2,539 soldiers who died, were wounded or went missing during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek Aug. 10, 1861.
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Announces 165th Battle Anniversary Programs 2026-08-03
Republic, Mo. – From Saturday, Aug. 8 through Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield will observe the 165th anniversary of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek with special programs honoring the Union and Southern soldiers who died in the Aug. 10, 1861, battle for control of Missouri.

Photos

Women in reproduction historic dress sit and stand on porch of old cabin — Living history volunteers give demonstration at the historic Edwards CabinPhoto: NPS Photo

A stone marker with engraving sits in front of a wooden fence and trees — The 1928 Lyon Marker commemorates General Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union general to die in the Civil War.Photo: NPS Photo

The receiver of an 1864 rifle shows decorative engraving with the original owner's name — A rare 1864 Henry repeating rifle from the park's museum collection belonged to Missouri Civil War veteran George W. FultonPhoto: Courtesy of Morphy Auctions

A man and woman walk with their dog on a paved road edged by trees and fields — Visitors enjoy an evening stroll on the Tour Road.Photo: NPS Photo

Front Entrance of Visitor Center and Arrowhead on sign reading "Wilson's Creek National Battlefield" — Begin your visit at the newly remodeled Visitor Center at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.Photo: Charles Dischinger, NPS Volunteer

General Nathaniel Lyon killed at The Battle of Wilson's Creek was placed on this bed. The Lyon Bed. — The Bed where General Nathaniel Lyon is placed, after being fatally wounded on the Battlefield.Photo: Charles Dischinger, NPS Volunteer

Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.