The Historic Park In Missouri That Was A Deadly Battleground During The Civil War

Tucked away in rural southeastern Missouri is an old Civil War battlefield. This beautiful Missouri valley was the scene for the largest battle in the Show Me State.Today you can discover the Arcadia Valley area while learning about important American history. Visit the Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site and enjoy a park like setting surrounded by history.

Major General Sterling Price was tasked with claiming Missouri for the Confederacy. He decided the best way to take control of Missouri was by way of St. Louis. By September in 1864, his army of 12,000 men were marching north from Arkansas towards St. Louis.

While marching north, Price and his army encountered Fort Davidson. Fort Davidson was built in the valley floor southwest of Pilot Knob. The fort was comprised of six earthwork walls, a moat, a handful of cannons, and an ammunition store house.

Only 1,500 men defended the fort against droves of Confederate soldiers. Union troops escaped the fort under the cover of night, took their cannons, and blew up the amminion store room. The Confederates lost an estimated 1,000 men and in-turn Price failed to capture St. Louis. It's believed that the Confederate soldiers killed in the battle are buried on-site.

Today you can still see the earthwork walls while visiting the site. The visitor's center has many exhibits related to the battle. It's the perfect place to learn about the Civil War and its affect on Missourians.

It's easy to see why people still love seeing this historic site. The site is maintained by the Missouri State Parks system and it's a great blend of nature and history. Take the half-mile walking trail or just explore the beautiful landscape.

Free tours of the visitor's center are provided daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. through November 30th From Dec. 1st until April 15th the Visitor's Center is closed on Mondays.

Come out for a reenaction or simply visit on a nice fall day and enjoy the scenic drive.

Have you been to the Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site? Tell us about your visit in the comments below.

Arcadia Valley has some of the most beautiful sights in the Show Me State. Check out what this Ozark oasis is hiding.

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The Historic Park In Missouri That Was A Deadly Battleground During The Civil War

Liz Oliver

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