We recently visited Battle of Athens State Park in Revere, MO. Site of the northernmost Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River, this quaint spot sits on the Des Moines River.
In July of 1861, it was occupied by pro-Union forces and a month later the pro-Southern forces attacked the village. Outnumbered four to one, the Union troops overwhelmed the Confederate troops and held the town. It was during this particular battle that a cannon was fired, sending a cannonball crashing all the way through the Thom-Benning home.
It entered the front wall and exited the back without harming anyone. Today the house goes by its nickname of the "cannonball home" and it's interesting that the ports of entry and exit are preserved for visitors. You will note the box built around the hole next to the front door.
Athens survived the times, but slowly declined in size and importance post-war as bitter feelings divided the people and, primarily, as railroads robbed river traffic. It was nearly gone by the turn-of-the-century. In 1962, remaining locals rallied together to create the park and it was donated to the state in 1975. It was renamed as an official historic site in 1985. Civil War reenactments are held every three years, the next being slated for 2022. Today it is a beautiful park and perfect place to spend time exploring. Two of the buildings are open on set days of the week and contain period furnishings and content.
By visiting mid-week, we were the only ones enjoying the former town of Athens and had the privilege of a personal tour by the park's supervisor. That's a bonus anytime, but absolutely perfect in these times of distancing.
Although not even slightly connected to the historical aspect, this bee tree was pointed out to us while we were touring.
Just beneath the blue arrow that I drew, you will notice a slit in the tree and that is where the bees go in and out of the active hive. Not terribly common, sometimes a colony will find a tree with an interior hollow spot where they will live for years. It was so interesting to see!
We would highly recommend Battle of Athens State Park. It's off the beaten path, surrounded by beautiful farmland and is the epitome of tranquility. This was the sunset from our motorhome site.
