In remembrance of the 125 miles that Union soldiers marched from Springfield, Mo., to fight the Civil War Battle of Prairie Grove, the State Park is inviting local residents and others to walk, run or jog 125 miles during 2017.
The 125-Mile Challenge is issued in honor of the 125-mile forced march that General Herron's men completed in 3 1/2 days, said Laura Jennings, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park's new park interpreter.
Setting out from Springfield on Dec. 3, 1862, General Herron and his troops accomplished an unprecedented march to reach what would become the Battle of Prairie Grove on the morning of Dec. 7, 1862.
Herron's men marched an average of 30 miles each day, taking minimal breaks and sleeping without tents. The troops traversed the rugged terrain and primitive, muddy roads of Northwest Arkansas, enduring temperatures as low as 16 degrees. Many marched without shoes.
Participants can complete the challenge at any locations. For those who walk or run at Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, the loop walking trail is 1 mile long and the driving trail is 5 miles. Also, five laps around the Memorial Yard in the center of the park equals 1 mile.
A brochure is available at the state park for any who would like to keep track of their mileage and then turn it into the park's office.
General News on 01/18/2017