(KY3)- Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield kicked off its three-day anniversary celebration, drawing one of the largest crowds in recent history to commemorate a pivotal moment in American history. The event marks 165 years since Union and Confederate soldiers fought for control of Missouri in the second major battle of the Civil War. For history lovers the opportunity to see Civil War history come to life was worth the trip. The three-day program features live artillery firing demonstrations and historical reenactment speakers, giving visitors a firsthand look at what soldiers experienced on the battlefield in 1861. The Battle of Wilson’s Creek was the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River and was the scene of the death of the first Union general killed in the war, Nathaniel Lyon.