|2015 Homeschool History Fair of the Ozarks||
Author Anita L. Roberts is an associate historian at the Springfield–Greene County Library District. Her latest book, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield: Civil War Collection, was written with her daughter Savannah G. Roberts, and boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.
The Civil War claimed over 620,000 lives from April 1861 until the last major battle in June 1865. Neighbor fought neighbor, while families were divided over the issues of states’ rights, secession, and slavery. Few people realize that Missouri was the war’s third most violent state with over 1,500 battles and skirmishes. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, southwest of Springfield, commemorates the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, which was the first Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River, the second major battle of the war, and where the first Union general was killed in combat.
The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Civil War collection is an outstanding compilation of artifacts, documents, and photographs primarily related to the Trans-Mississippi theater. Items include Arkansas Confederate general Patrick Cleburne’s sword belt and sash, abolitionist John Brown’s telescope, a Confederate “Cherokee Braves” flag, and an original print of General Order No. 11, which forced evacuation of several western Missouri counties in an attempt to eliminate safe havens for guerrillas.
Roberts spent months exploring the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Civil War collection to compile this unique assortment of photographs.She will be on hand at the fair to walk visitors through this fascinating history, utilizing a wealth of historic photography. Ms. Roberts' books will also be available for purchase on the day of the fair, or you may order copies by completing and mailing in the order form linked below. Do not miss this very informative look into Ozarks history.