Civil War Commission Announces Boonville Reenactment - 2011-06-07

As part of the Missouri Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission’s year of programming, the town of Boonville, Mo., is preparing for its reenactment of the Battle of Boonville, June 17-19. Firm attorney Kent Emison was appointed by Gov. Jay Nixon to serve on this commission, which plans educational and entertaining events aimed at boosting tourism in the state to commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War. 

The battle reenactment will be staged by the Boonville Civil War Commemorative Commission, Boonville Tourism Commission, and Collins Battery B.  It is timed for the 150th anniversary commemoration of the First Battle of Boonville. Fought June 17, 1861, this battle occurred before the First Battle of Bull Run in Virginia (July 21, 1861) and ensured the state of Missouri and the Missouri River would remain under Union control. 

The site of the reenactment battle will be the Dr. Willard Avery farm on Rocheport Road, just east of the Boonville city limits, and the location of the original Civil War battle. This turning point battle, although short in duration, also provided that vital human, agricultural and mineral resources would not come under the control of the Confederate South. Included in the reenactment will be exhibits, authentic crafts, a blacksmith, medical and cooking demonstrations, as well as Civil War period music and a Sunday church service.  More information can be obtained by contacting 660-621-2105 or phd89@iland.net.