From the Field
Scenes from Past Reenactments
The Battle of Carthage, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the commemoration and living history education of the Battle of Carthage ... one of the first significant engagements of the American Civil War, fought on Missouri soil just days after the nation fractured.
Every other year, we bring this pivotal moment back to life through a full-scale historical reenactment, drawing participants and spectators from across the country. Our work honors both those who fought and the community of Carthage that bore witness.
"A well done reenactment allows you to step back in time and witness real cannons and muskets, fired by long battle lines of old-time soldiers."
... Steve Cottrell, Civil War Reenactor & EnthusiastReenactors must register by June 5th ... a pre-event check-in day held the day before the main event opens to the public.
Full-scale infantry and artillery engagement at 1:00 PM both days, with hundreds of uniformed reenactors portraying both Union and Confederate forces.
Walk through living history camps during camp hours. See period equipment, cooking, demonstrations, and the daily realities of soldiering in 1861.
Ladies Tea, Opening Ceremony, Arms Inspection, UDC Cakewalk, Civil War Dance on Saturday evening, and a Church Service Sunday morning.
Browse period-appropriate vendors offering Civil War artifacts, books, reproduction equipment, artwork, and handcrafted goods.
Just weeks after Fort Sumter, Missouri became a contested prize. Governor Claiborne Jackson's State Guard forces, pushed out of Jefferson City by Unionist forces, moved south with Partisan Rangers under Captain Jo Shelby. Union Colonel Franz Sigel moved to intercept with 1,100 Federal troops.
On July 5, 1861 ... sixteen days before First Bull Run ... some 4,000 Missouri State Guardsmen clashed with Sigel's forces across open prairie fields. Outnumbered and outflanked, Sigel conducted a fighting withdrawal into Carthage, then retreated to Sarcoxie under cover of darkness.
The Missouri State Guard claimed victory. The Battle of Carthage stands as the first significant land battle of the Civil War west of the Mississippi ... a clash too often overlooked, but one that signaled the brutal conflict that would consume Missouri for four more years.
Whether you're a seasoned reenactor or a first-time volunteer, there's a role for you. Infantry, cavalry, artillery, sutlers, and civilian impressions are all welcome.
Battle of Carthage, Inc.
P.O. Box _____, Carthage, MO _____
battleofcarthage@gmail.com
Facebook: Battle of Carthage Inc.