WANTED: VOLUNTEERS TO CLEAN UP MISSOURI BATTLEFIELDS AND HISTORIC SITES

American Battlefield Trust’s nationwide volunteer day will tackle improvement projects at historic sites from Nevada to Massachusetts on April 9

(Washington, D.C.) — Volunteers throughout Missouri are teaming up with the American Battlefield Trust to perform “spring cleaning” by way of maintenance and restoration of six "Show-Me State" battlefields and historic sites during the 26th annual Park Day. A nationwide, hands-on preservation event, Park Day provides an avenue to refresh these storied locations just in time for the busy tourist season. Over the years, the event has attracted volunteers of all ages and abilities bound by their dedication to community and the uplifting of our American heritage.

Park Day 2022 is scheduled for Saturday, April 9, 2022, but as sites consider weather and local public health guidelines, they may choose to participate in the event on an alternative date. Missouri volunteers will be joined by thousands of participants across 26 states. Volunteers will receive reusable Trust water bottles, and some sites will provide lunch or refreshments. A local historian may also be present to discuss the unique role of the site in our national story. Missouri volunteers interested in participating in Park Day are encouraged to contact the individual sites listed below.

Battle Of Lexington State Historic Site, Lexington, 10:00 a.m.

Contact: Karla Strain at Karla.Strain@dnr.mo.gov

Volunteers will help with the removal of invasive plant species on the battlefield, with a prior lesson provided on how to properly identify and remove. The site requests that participants meet in front of the Visitor Center and bring clippers and hand saws, if possible. Afterwards, volunteers will be given a tour of the battlefield and the Anderson House. Lunch will be provided.

Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site, Pilot Knob, 10:00 a.m.

Contact: Brick Autry at brick.autry@dnr.mo.gov

Volunteers will help with minor clean-up around the historic site and will be provided with a battlefield and gallery tour. Participants are asked to meet at the Visitor Center.

Fort D Historic Site, Cape Girardeau, 9:00 a.m.

Contact: Patti House at patti.m.house@gmail.com

Volunteers will assist in cleaning the grounds and the stone building known as “the blockhouse.” Plus, participants may get to test their historic interpretation skills with visitors; historians will also be on site to tell the story of the old Civil War structure. It is asked that volunteers meet at the fort and bring a pair of gloves. A light lunch will be provided.

John Siddle Williams House/ Hickory County Museum, Hermitage, 9:00 a.m.

Contact: Roger Boyd at rboyd590@gmail.com

Volunteers will clean up the grounds and prepare flower beds surrounding the museum, as well as paint the interior and exterior of the building. Participants are asked to bring gloves and a good attitude but will be provided with a tour of the museum and grounds, as well as food and drink, in return. (Note: This event takes place Saturday, April 23, 2022)

Lone Jack Civil War Battlefield, Soldiers’ Cemetery & Museum, Lone Jack, 9:00 a.m.

Contact: Alinda Miller at president@historiclonejack.org

Volunteers will help remove leaves and brush that winter ushered in at the battlefield, cemetery and “Cave Hotel” property. The site requests that participants bring labeled gloves and rakes. Registration is required; interested volunteers must send an e-mail or call 816-805-1815.

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Republic, 8:30 a.m.

Contact: Billie Aschwege at billie_aschwege@nps.gov

Volunteers will assist with the clean-up of trails and the stream, mild landscaping and the painting of railings. Participants are asked to meet at the parking lot outside the Visitor Center wearing close-toed work shoes, long pants and a hat. Volunteers should also consider packing gloves, water and lunch. All will have the chance to learn about the site through provided artillery and house tours.

For a complete list of participating Park Day sites and more information, visit www.battlefields.org/parkday. Volunteers can share their Park Day participation online using #ParkDay2022.

It is asked that anyone who has experienced any COVID-19 symptoms in the two weeks prior to their Park Day event refrain from participating. For any questions regarding weather policies, rain dates, and COVID-19 considerations, the Trust recommends that volunteers contact their site of interest.

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 54,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.