Battle of Lexington State Historic Site | Kansas City

The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site preserves the location of a significant Civil War engagement in Lexington, Missouri.

This site commemorates the Battle of the Hemp Bales, a Confederate victory that occurred in September 1861.

Visual Characteristics

The site features the Anderson House, a two-story brick structure with a hipped roof. The surrounding grounds include open fields, wooded areas, and a reconstructed earthwork fortification. The Missouri River is visible in the distance.

Location & Access Logistics

The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site is located at 1201 North 13th Street, Lexington, MO 64067. It is approximately 50 miles east of Kansas City, Missouri, accessible via Interstate 70 East to Exit 49 (MO-13). The site offers a dedicated parking lot for visitors. Public transport options are limited; bus service to Lexington is infrequent.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The primary structure, the Anderson House, was built in 1853 by Robert Sterling Anderson. It served as a Union headquarters during the Battle of the Hemp Bales. The battle itself was a key event in the Western Theater of the American Civil War, fought over control of the strategic Missouri River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the Anderson House, which is furnished with period artifacts. Interpretive signage details the battle's events. Walking trails allow exploration of the battlefield. Reenactments are scheduled on specific dates.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by trees on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available. No on-site food vendors; nearest facilities are in Lexington.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting on the Anderson House, visit in the late morning or mid-afternoon. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable aspect of the battle involved Confederate soldiers using bales of hemp, soaked in river water, as makeshift fortifications against Union artillery. This tactic contributed to their success in holding the position.

Nearby Landmarks

• Missouri River (0.8km South)
• Lexington City Hall (1.2km West)
• Lafayette County Courthouse (1.5km West)
• Old Drum Barracks (2.1km Southwest)