Congrats! You Discovered Big Bone Cave

The Civil War first hit Van Buren County when Confederate troops under James Randals began mining the Big Bone Cave’s for saltpeter deposits, nitre, which is essential for the manufacture of gunpowder, in 1861. By 1863, 4,017 pounds of gunpowder was made. In November of 1863, Union occupation held new challenges for the Confederate Army in the area, which led to the Union Army occupying the Burritt College.  

Unique Visit Code:

1739206380

Want to continue your adventure?  Click here to see list of sites.  Sites are listed in suggested travel order.