Battle Anniversary Weekend at Pea Ridge
The 147th anniversary of pivotal battle that saved Missouri for the Union, the Battle of Pea Ridge, will be commemorated March 7-8 at Pea Ridge National Military Park.
The event will begin at 10:00 on the Elkhorn Tavern with living historians portraying Union Infantry showing people how soldiers drilled, moved and fired. The Infantry programs by either Northern or Southern troops will be at 10:00, 11:00, 12:30, 1:00, 2:00, 2:30, 3:30 and 4:00. There will also be guided tours led throughout the day to various parts of the fighting around the Elkhorn Tavern.
This year for the first time since March 7, 1862, the First Iowa Battery will once again be where they were north of the Elkhorn Tavern on the Wire Road. This four-gun battery engaged over 20 guns of the Missouri State Guard on the opposite ridge. Artillery programs are for Saturday only and will be at 10:30, 12:00, 1:30 and 3:00.
The Webb Collection of Civil War era items will be on display in the Visitor Center on Saturday only from 9-4.
In addition, there will be a camp laundress set up near the Elkhorn Tavern to show visitors how clothes were washed and children of all ages are invited to help on both Saturday and Sunday.
The annual memorial service for all those who fought and fell here at the battle will take place on Sunday at 10:00 at the Elkhorn Tavern. Infantry demonstrations will begin at 11:00 and go at every hour on the hour until 3:00. Guided walks will also be given on Sunday.
Because of the increased number of vehicles on the park tour road for this event, no horses or bicycles will be allowed in the park on Saturday.
Pea Ridge National Military Park preserves the site of and commemorates the March 1862 Civil War battle that helped Union forces gain control of Missouri. The park is located 10 miles north of Rogers on US Highway 62. Admission is $5.00 per carload.
| 
