The Basics
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
506 East Douglas Street
Prairie Grove, AR 72753
Phone: (479) 846-2990
Email: prairiegrove@arkansas.com
Directions: The park is located on U.S. Hwy 62 in Prairie Grove
About Prairie Grove Battlefield
On December 7, 1862, Confederate and Union forces met in a bloody battle along a series of low ridges near Prairie Grove, Arkansas. The last major Civil War battle in Northwest Arkansas, both sides took heavy casualties, about 2,700 in all. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park works to preserve the site and history of this battle.
With preservation efforts dating back as far as the early 1900s, this park is nationally recognized as one of the most intact battlefields of the Civil War. Many historic buildings and structures from the area are preserved here at the park. Although none from that day are still standing, one of significant importance still stands, the Borden house. The Borden house was located exactly where the newer one stands today, and was used by Confederate soldiers. The house was burned just after the war, but was rebuilt almost exactly how it was before in 1868.
Another historic building located on the property is the Morrow house. Built around 1855 by John Morrow and family, it stood on Cove Creek, about 9 miles south of Prairie Grove. It served as Confederate headquarters the night before the attack. Also, in February of 1862, Gen. Sterling Price used the house on his way to Pea Ridge.
Visitors are invited to walk along the ridge and in the valley where the heaviest fighting took place. Take the one-mile loop Battlefield Trail, or travel the park's five mile Battlefield Driving Tour.
The park's visitor center houses a museum with exhibits relating to the battlefield, the battles that took place, and local history. Arkansas' largest civil war reenactment occurs here during the first weekend in December, even numbered years. Activities include guided tours through Confederate and Union camps, military drills, and demonstrations on cooking, spinnig, and lace-making. Living history programs are also part of the weekend. Battle reenactments occur each day in the actual battlefield near the Borden house.
Features & Facilities
Visitor Center | Exhibits | Museum | Historic Buildings | Civil War Battlefield | Pavilion | Picnic Area/Tables | Restrooms
Activities Available
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