July 13, 2019

One hundred fifty-seven years ago a furious and bloody battle swept through the peaceful streets of Lone Jack. Raw Confederate recruits, many literally defending their homes, clashed with seasoned Union soldiers from Lexington in the “bloodiest battle fought west of the Mississippi.”

On August 17 the Lone Jack community will commemorate the battle that took place in the middle of town and celebrate the town’s rich history.

Saturday morning at 9:30 am opening ceremonies for historical society activities will be held in front of the museum.

From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on the Museum grounds and across the road, we will be hosting Craft Vendors, Heritage Crafts, and Memorabilia Booths.

During this time also, the Lone Jack Food Pantry will be selling delicious Mennonite jams and pickles. The Lone Jack branch of the Mid-Continent Public Library will have a booth on the grounds and feature a fine forgiveness day. The Lone Jack Baptist Church will be hosting family activities & games.

At 10:00 the always-emotional wreath-laying ceremony and soldiers’ recognition will be conducted with the assistance of Elliot’s Scouts, a reenactment group. The sound of bagpipes will float across the grounds as Andi Gamblin, a member of Kansas City’s St. Andrew’s Pipe and Drums, plays in recognition of their sacrifices.

Following the ceremony, the board of aldermen will present their annual community award on stage. The Historical Society will be updating the Wall of Honor this year. If you are or have a military veteran in your family, please stop by the Historical Society tent and provide your information.

If you are a current service member, we thank you for your service. Please stop by and provide us with your information.

At 4:00 the Lone Jack Athletic Association will be holding their annual awards ceremony and at 6:00 pm there will be an old-fashioned fiddle contest.

On Sunday at 11:00 am, Rev. Creighton Cox will be holding an old fashion Brush Arbor church service.

All events are subject to change.

For information on Heritage Day, watch the historical society’s website at www.historiclonejack.org or visit their Facebook page. To volunteer or for information, contact Alinda at 816.805.1815 or [email protected].