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Battle of Lexington State Historic Site

Explore a Civil War battlefield: tour the historic Anderson House and discover the Battle of Lexington's impact on Missouri's history.

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Explore the site of the 1861 Battle of Lexington, a pivotal Civil War clash, at this Missouri State Historic Site. Walk the battlefield, tour the Oliver Anderson mansion riddled with bullet holes, and delve into exhibits detailing the battle's impact. Discover a crucial moment in Missouri's Civil War history.

A brief summary to Battle of Lexington State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the Missouri State Parks website for the tour schedule of the Anderson House and battlefield, as tour times vary depending on the season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the battlefield trails, as the terrain can be uneven in places.
  • Visit the visitor center first to get an overview of the battle and its historical context.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site is located in Lexington, Missouri, a short distance from Interstate 70. From I-70, take the Lexington exit and follow the signs to the historic site. Once in Lexington, follow Main Street to 13th Street, then turn north onto Delaware Street. The site will be on your left. Parking is available on site. There are no fees for parking or admission.

  • Walking

    If you are already in downtown Lexington, the historic site is accessible by foot. From the Lafayette County Courthouse , proceed north on 11th Street, then turn east onto Delaware Street. Continue for two blocks; the entrance to the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site will be on your right. This is a walk of approximately 0.3 miles.

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Discover more about Battle of Lexington State Historic Site

The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site in Lexington, Missouri, preserves the grounds of the 1861 Battle of Lexington, a significant engagement in the American Civil War. Here, Confederate troops under Major-General Sterling Price clashed with Union forces led by Colonel James A. Mulligan. Established in 1958, the site offers visitors a glimpse into this pivotal moment in history. The site encompasses the Oliver Anderson House, a mansion that became a focal point during the battle, serving as a field hospital. Bullet holes and cannon shots still mark the walls, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can explore the battlefield, now a peaceful landscape of orchards and gardens, where remnants of trenches and the graves of unknown Union soldiers serve as poignant reminders of the battle. The visitor center provides a comprehensive overview of the battle, its context, and its impact on the region. Exhibits detail the economic and social landscape of Lexington in the mid-19th century, including its reliance on hemp, slavery, and river trade. A 20-minute video offers diverse perspectives on the battle from community members and soldiers. Guided tours of the Anderson House and battlefield are available, providing deeper insights into the events that unfolded here.

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