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Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation

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Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation

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Established in 1950, the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation is one of the oldest private sector support groups in the National Park Service.

11/09/2026

Across the National Park System, forts, battlefields, historic homes and coastal defenses preserve the places where military history unfolded, and the stories of the people who lived it.

At Minute Man National Historical Park, follow the route where the opening battles of the American Revolution began. At Gettysburg National Military Park, walk through the landscape that witnessed one of the Civil War's defining battles. At Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine, discover the story behind the flag that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner.” And at Pearl Harbor National Memorial, remember the lives forever changed by the events of December 7, 1941.

From Revolutionary War battlefields to World War II installations and Cold War defenses, these places connect us to generations of service, sacrifice and the lasting impact of conflict. This Veterans Day, step into history, discover the stories behind these places, and honor those who served.

Explore America's military heritage in national parks: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/military/visit.htm

NPS Image: Gettysburg National Military Park

11/09/2026

Congratulations to Wilson's Creek National Battlefield staff, VIPs, and community volunteers for a successful Memorial Luminary event. Although the luminaries have been packed up, there's still plenty to learn and reflect on this Veterans Day. The visitor center will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday and the trails are accessible dawn to dusk.

This photo was taken on Bloody Hill at sunset.

11/06/2026

Time's running out to reserve a free space for you and your family at the annual Memorial Luminary.

The first tours leave the visitor center on Saturday, November 7 at 5:30 pm then another tour leaves every 20 minutes.

As you visit three important battlefield locations, you will learn about the stories and fates of those who fought or were present on that August day in 1861.

Early evening twilight tours are close to full. Later tours under the stars have more space available but are starting to fill up.

Call the park at 417-732-2662 or visit in-person to make your reservation.

Phone reservations close on Saturday, November 7 at noon.

Photo: Remembering those who were wounded and those who fell. NPS/Bill Nash

11/04/2026

Telling the stories and keeping history alive! Great job by battlefield staff on this new exhibit.

11/02/2026

Don't miss your chance to attend the Memorial Luminary this weekend! Space is available in the later time slots.

The Memorial Luminary will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026, honoring the more than 2,500 soldiers who became casualties during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.

Tours will depart every 20 minutes from 5:30–9:30 p.m. Each tour lasts approximately 80 minutes.

📞 Reservations: 417-732-2662

Reservations can be made by phone or in person at the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center during operating hours, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily.

Please note:
• Reservations are first-come, first-served.
• Reservations cannot be made by voicemail or email.
• Registration will remain open until all spaces are filled or noon on November 7.

During the event, participants will travel by vehicle caravan to three locations on the battlefield where more than 2,500 luminaries will illuminate the landscape. At each stop, park staff will share stories of soldiers who experienced the tragedy of war on that fateful day in August 1861.

Join us for an evening of remembrance, reflection and connection to the men who fought and sacrificed on this hallowed ground.

10/27/2026

Meet Our New Board Members!
We’re pleased to welcome three new members to the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Foundation Board of Directors: Randy McGinnis, Emily Brittain, and Karl Baker. Each brings unique experience, community connections, and a shared passion for preserving and promoting Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

Randy McGinnis
A lifelong Missourian, Randy earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Missouri–Columbia and an MBA from Iowa State University. He retired in 2021 after a 35-year career with Dairy Farmers of America/Mid-America Dairy, where he served as Chief Operating Officer.

Randy has a long history with Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. From 1986 to 1999, he spent many Sunday afternoons at the battlefield participating in living history demonstrations, primarily as a cavalryman, as well as Moonlight Tours. An avid reader of Civil War and other history, Randy has visited battlefields throughout the country. He is an American Battlefield Trust Color Bearer and a life member of the US Cavalry Association.

Outside of history, Randy enjoys horseback riding, golf, hiking, and travel. He and his wife, Cindy, have two married sons who live in the Kansas City area.

Emily Brittain
Emily is Executive Coordinator at the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, where she provides support to the President/CEO, coordinates activities of the CFO Board of Directors, and supports the organization’s leadership team. Before joining CFO in 2023, she worked in pharmacy administration with Mercy Health System.

A Springfield native, Emily holds bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice from Drury University. She is passionate about community engagement and supporting local nonprofits that improve quality of life across southwest Missouri.

In her free time, Emily enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks and beyond. She is also working toward her goal of visiting all the national parks.

Karl Baker
Karl is a Certified Public Accountant with 34 years of professional experience, including extensive work with nonprofit organizations such as foundations, museums, community health centers, senior living organizations, and Boys & Girls Clubs. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards in leadership roles, including board president, treasurer, and audit committee chair.

Karl served for nine years on the Board of Trustees of the USS Constitution Museum in Boston, completing his service in fall 2025. After living in Boston, he returned to Springfield six years ago and has continued to seek opportunities to support his community.

A lifelong enthusiast of U.S. and Civil War history, Karl has had a particular interest in Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield for many years. He and his wife regularly visit the battlefield and participate in park events. He looks forward to helping increase awareness of the battlefield and museum while supporting their preservation and educational missions.

10/23/2026

Annual Memorial Luminary Tour Returns to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Nov. 7

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.

More than 2,500 luminaries will be placed on the battlefield at three locations where casualties were heaviest. Visitors can drive the battlefield as part of a vehicle caravan tour to experience the luminaries and listen to the stories of individuals soldiers who experienced the tragedy of war on that fateful day in August.

Luminary tours are free; however, reservations and a personal vehicle are required. Tours will depart every 20 minutes from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Each tour will last one hour and twenty minutes.

Reservations are now open and will be accepted until noon Saturday, Nov. 7 or until all time slots are filled. Reservations may be made by phone at 417-732-2662 or in-person at the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center during regular operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Email or voicemail reservation requests cannot be accepted.

The tour involves short walks of less than 50 yards over uneven, lantern-lit terrain. Participants should wear sturdy footwear, dress for the weather and bring a flashlight or headlamp. For additional information or to request accessibility accommodation, please contact the visitor center.

Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled tour time to enjoy light refreshments at the visitor center provided by the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Foundation. The visitor center will remain open through the end of the event. Restrooms and drinking water are only available at the visitor center.

The program may be cancelled due to inclement weather including heavy rain, high winds, or freezing temperatures. For program updates, please call the visitor center at 417-732-2662 visit www.nps.gov/wicr, or check the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield page.

—nps.gov—

About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

About Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield: Administered by the National Park Service, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield preserves and commemorates the site of the first major battle of the Civil War west of the Mississippi River. The battlefield is located 10 miles southwest of Springfield, Missouri at the intersection of State Highway ZZ and Farm Road 182. Learn more at nps.gov/wicr.

Photo: Telling the Story at Sigel's Final Position. Credit: NPS Photo

10/22/2026

Bloody Hill (Stop 7) is a serene place today, a sharp contrast to the bitter fighting on August 10, 1861. About a half mile from the parking lot, you’ll find a stone monument marking the spot where Union Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon was mortally wounded by a chest musket ball. Placed in 1928 by the University Club of Springfield, it remains the only Civil War commemorative monument inside the park.

10/17/2026

Today is the day! Registration opens for the 21st Annual Memorial Luminary at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

The Memorial Luminary will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026, honoring the more than 2,500 soldiers who became casualties during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.

Registration opens today, Saturday, October 17.

Tours will depart every 20 minutes from 5:30–9:30 p.m. Each tour lasts approximately 80 minutes.

📞 Reservations: 417-732-2662
Reservations can be made by phone or in person at the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center during operating hours, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily.

Please note:
• Reservations are first-come, first-served.
• Reservations cannot be made by voicemail or email.
• Registration will remain open until all spaces are filled or noon on November 7.

During the event, participants will travel by vehicle caravan to three locations on the battlefield where more than 2,500 luminaries will illuminate the landscape. At each stop, park staff will share stories of soldiers who experienced the tragedy of war on that fateful day in August 1861.

Join us for an evening of remembrance, reflection and connection to the men who fought and sacrificed on this hallowed ground.

Visit Springfield
Show Me Christian County

Address

5242 S State Highway ZZ
Republic, MO
65738

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm
Saturday	8am - 5pm
Sunday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+14178619905

Website

http://www.wilsonscreek.com/

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