Historic Missouri Sites

By Author: Mark Ruda
Total Articles: 15
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Missouri is a state steeped with culture and history. There are a wide variety of historical sites available for you to visit throughout the year, which can let you walk in the footsteps of those who lived long ago. From Civil War battle sites to Western gunslinger's old homes, there is a historic location for the whole family to enjoy.

Civil War Battle Sites in Missouri

Throughout the years of the Civil War there were over 1,200 battles and minor skirmishes recorded in this border state. This made Missouri the third most battle ridden state during the war. Now, there are a wide variety of historic battle sites that can be toured and enjoyed throughout the state.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

The largest battle of the Civil War west of the Mississippi River occurred at Wilson's Creek in 1861. Periodic reenactments can be seen here, as well as a year-round museum and observation of the battlefield. A video presentation allows you to gain insight as to how the battle occurred and exactly where it took place.

Fort Davidson State Historic Site

The Fort Davidson historic site was ...
... the location of the battle of Pilot Knob in 1864. This historic battle between the Union and Confederacy is depicted at this location through reenactments, and a memorial for the Union soldiers that has been established here. There is a visitor center and museum available, and the outline of the fort can still be seen.

Jesse James Historic Attractions

There are many historic attractions dedicated to the notorious Jesse James throughout the state of Missouri. This Wild West gunslinger was the source of much controversy during his life, and after his death the controversy continues. The various museums and sites dedicated to his memory revolve both around the things that are known of his life, and of the things that are unknown about his death.

The James Farm and Museum

In 1978 the farm and home where Jesse James lived as a child, was purchased by Clay County in Missouri. The home was restored and made into a museum where several Jesse James artifacts such as his last pair of boots, his gun belt, and the feather duster that he was holding when he was killed can be observed. Each year over 18,000 people visit the museum and farm to see the location where Jesse James once lived and was buried until he was interned in 1902 and reburied with his wife in the cemetery.

Jesse James Last Home

About 35 miles away from the James Farm and Museum, Jesse James' last home can be found. Nearly 25,000 people flock here each year to see where Robert Ford shot and killed the notorious Jesse James. Displaying items from his life and death, this unique museum has such objects as his coffin handles, a small pin he was wearing when he died, and the bullet removed from his lung.

Other Historic Missouri Sites

Other important historic Missouri sites include notable birthplaces such as those of Harry S. Truman a former president of the United States in Grandview, and the childhood home of the great American author Mark Twain in Hannibal, Missouri.

The Ulysses S. Grant farm in St. Louis is another popular attraction for Civil War enthusiasts, and the past home of theme park icon Walt Disney is visited by thousands each year. Bonniebrook, located just north of Branson MO, is the home of the popular Kewpie doll developed by Rose O'Neil in 1909. There is now a popular Kewpie doll Museum dedicated to the dolls and O'Neil who died in 1944.

The history and culture of Missouri has been diverse throughout the years. Those who are looking for a glimpse of life during Civil War times or as a Wild West villain will be sure to enjoy one of the many historic locations throughout the state.

About the author:
Mark Ruda is a current resident of Branson, Missouri. He is currently a marketing director for Thousand Hills Golf Resort, one of the popular Branson hotels and Missouri cabin rentals providers offering luxury golf courses and lakeside Branson condo rentals. Mark's experience with Branson lodging make him an excellent source on anything Branson, whether you want to know more about Branson vacation rentals or just find a great restaurant in town. Visit http://www.thousandhills.com/branson-packages.cfm and http://www.thousandhills.com/branson-cabins.cfm