Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield will host the 19th annual Memorial Luminary Tour on Saturday, November 11, 2023, in the evening. This free event commemorates the 2,539 casualties suffered at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek on August 10, 1861.

Over 2,500 luminaries will be placed on the battlefield at three locations of concentrated casualties. Buses will transport visitors throughout the battlefield to listen to the stories of individuals soldiers who offered up their lives. Visitors will leave with a personal connection and a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made on this battlefield.

Reservations are required for each tour. The event is free, but you must have a timed reservation to board the bus. Tours are scheduled every 20 minutes from 5:40 pm to 9:40 pm. Each tour will last one hour. Reservations can be made starting Saturday November 4, at 8:00 am over the phone at 417-732-2662 or in person at the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center during regular operating hours, seven days a week, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The tour involves walking short distances, less than 50 yards, on uneven terrain lit by lanterns. For information, or accommodation requests related to accessibility please call the visitor center.

In the event of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled. Please call the park at 417-732-2662 or check the park website and Facebook page for program updates at www.nps.gov/wicr and https://www.facebook.com/Wilsons-Creek-National-Battlefield-140802912626881/.

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 National Battlefield is located 10 miles southwest of Springfield, Missouri at the intersection of Highway ZZ and Farm Road 182.