After 18 months of being closed for renovations, a $3.5 million project opened to the public May 28 at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center and Museum just outside Springfield, Mo.
The renovation added about 1,800 square feet of new museum exhibit space, allowing patrons to view the park’s extensive collection of Civil War artifacts.
It features the original “Lyon bed” where the body of the first Union general to die during the Civil War, Nathaniel Lyon, was laid after his death during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
“It is my honor to bring this project to a successful conclusion and welcome visitors, near and far, to once again learn more about this significant historical event and experience the new exhibits,” said battlefield superintendent Sarah Cunningham.
