Preserved Civil War battlefield featuring a historic house museum, interpretive exhibits, self-guided trails, monuments, and historic grounds associated with the 1861 Battle of the Hemp Bales.
Visitor Center (April–October): Tuesday–Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm
Visitor Center (November–March): Wednesday–Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm
Guided tours require a fee; check the official website for current tour pricing
How to Get There
From Independence, MO (45 mi): Take I-70 east to MO-13 north, continue into Lexington, then follow local streets to Delaware Street and the historic site overlooking the Missouri River valley.
Overview
The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site preserves the scene of one of the most significant early Civil War engagements west of the Mississippi River. In September 1861, Confederate forces led by Major General Sterling Price besieged Union troops occupying Lexington, culminating in a victory remembered for the innovative use of water-soaked hemp bales as movable shields during the assault. Today, visitors can explore the battlefield grounds, follow interpretive trails, and tour the historic Oliver Anderson House, which served as a hospital during the battle and still bears visible evidence of the conflict. Exhibits inside the visitor center provide valuable context about Missouri's divided loyalties and the broader struggle for control of the state.
Perched above the Missouri River valley, the site combines dramatic historical significance with scenic views and well-preserved landmarks. The Anderson House remains one of the most important surviving Civil War structures in Missouri, while monuments and exhibits throughout the grounds help visitors understand the tactics, hardships, and consequences of the battle. Walking the battlefield offers a unique opportunity to stand where soldiers once fought during a pivotal moment in the war's western theater. For history enthusiasts and travelers exploring Missouri's heritage, the site provides an immersive and memorable look into the state's Civil War story.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the https://mostateparks.com/park/battle-lexington-state-historic-siteBattle of Lexington State Historic Site, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
