Experience History Come Alive!

Step into a living timeline at the 14th Annual Liberty Days! This immersive two-day event brings the pages of history books to life, from the birth of our nation to the modern era. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or a family looking for a unique weekend adventure, there is something for everyone to discover.

Witness the evolution of American liberty through authentic encampments, interactive displays, and powerful live reenactments. Don’t just read about the past—walk through it.

  • Dates: Friday, October 2, 2026, and Saturday, October 3, 2026

  • Time: 9 AM to 4 PM (Both Days)

  • Location: The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library

  • Admission: FREE for all ages!

Special School Day:  Friday, October 2

 

Attention 5th and 6th Grade Teachers: Kick off the weekend early with an exclusive educational experience! Friday, October 2, is specifically dedicated to regional school visits. We invite you to bring your students to the Museum for a high-impact, immersive journey through American history.

Through hands-on interaction with our living history presenters and authentic encampments, students will gain a deeper understanding of the past that goes far beyond the classroom textbook.

Ready to join us? Space for school groups is limited and fills up quickly. To secure a spot for your class:

  • Register Online: Click the button below to fill out our quick Teacher Registration Form.

  • Contact Us: For specific questions or scheduling needs, please Email: info@nssml.com or Call us at 573-568-2055.

 

Teachers register classes here

Event Overview

Join us for a journey through time at the 14th Annual Liberty Days! This unique two-day event brings history to life, showcasing eras from the early 19th century to the modern day. Witness the evolution of American liberty through interactive displays, live reenactments, and immersive educational presentations.

Living History Timeline

 

  • Revolutionary War (1775–1783): The foundation of American independence. Witness the equipment and stories of those who fought for a new nation.

  • Mountain Men Era (1800–1840): Exploration and the rugged fur trade. Discover the survival skills and tools of the early pioneers who ventured into the American West.

  • Civil War (1861–1865): A nation divided. Explore the camp life and strategic history of the conflict that reshaped the United States.

  • World War I (1914–1918): “The Great War.” Learn about the introduction of modern warfare and America’s emerging role on the global stage.

  • World War II (1939–1945): “The Greatest Generation.” Experience the uniforms, vehicles, and stories of the men and women who served during the second World War.

  • Cold War Era (1947–1991): An era of global tension and rapid technological advancement, from the Iron Curtain to the Space Race.

  • Modern Era (1991–Present): Contemporary military history and peacekeeping efforts, showcasing the ongoing evolution of the Armed Forces and the legacy of the Stars and Stripes.

Feature Reenactors

  • Poplar Bluff and Crowley’s Ridge Daughters of the American Revolution: Representing the Revolutionary War era through historical education and genealogical heritage.
  • Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club: Bringing the Mountain Men Era to life with demonstrations of traditional frontier skills and blackpowder firearms.
  • Turner Brigade and Col. Timothy Reeves SCV Camp #2350: Presenting a comprehensive look at the Civil War through military drills and civilian life portrayals.
  • 10th Armored Division and Others: Showcasing the motorized power and infantry equipment of World War II.
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Interactive Activities and Demonstrations

  • Battle Simulations & Living History: Witness the sights and sounds of the past with authentic historical reenactments and tactical simulations throughout the day.

  • Period-Accurate Encampments: Step inside the living quarters of soldiers and civilians. Explore recreated camps to see how people cooked, slept, and lived during different eras of American history.

  • Artillery & Weapons Skill: Observe live demonstrations of historical firearms and artillery, showcasing the evolution of technology from blackpowder to the modern age.

  • Heritage Crafts & Skill Workshops: Engage with artisans as they demonstrate traditional trades and survival skills essential to frontier and military life.

  • Historic Military Vehicles: Get an up-close look at a rotating display of vintage military transport and armored vehicles used by the 10th Armored Division and others.

  • Education & Games for All Ages: Ignite a love for history in younger guests with dedicated children’s activities, period-appropriate games, and supervised artifact handling.

  • Music & Storytelling: Enjoy the sounds of the past with historical music performances and meet-and-greets with expert historical interpreters.

Visitor Information

  • Dates & Attendance:

    • Friday, October 2: Dedicated School Day (5th & 6th grade)

    • Saturday, October 3: Open to the general public.

  • Event Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM daily.

  • Admission: FREE for all visitors.

  • Parking: Convenient on-site parking is available. Please follow all directional signage and instructions from our museum volunteers upon arrival.

  • Food & Refreshments: A variety of local food vendors will be on-site. Visitors are also welcome to use our designated picnic areas.

  • Accessibility: The Museum building is wheelchair accessible. Assistance is available for guests navigating the outdoor living history encampments.

  • Pro-Tips for Your Visit:

    • Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

    • Don’t forget your camera for the Photo Contest!

    • Stop by our Gift Shop for unique historical memorabilia and books.

Special Features

  • Guided Museum Tours: Take a deep dive into history with guided tours of The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library. Discover the fascinating stories behind our permanent collections and the origins of the military’s most famous newspaper.

  • Exclusive Regional Exhibits: Explore limited-time displays highlighting the specific historical contributions and military significance of Southeast Missouri throughout the centuries.

  • Guest Speakers & Lectures: Hear from noted historians and subject matter experts as they discuss pivotal moments in American history and the evolution of the “Living Timeline.”

  • Artifact Handling Sessions: Get a literal “feel” for history! Join our supervised sessions where you can examine and handle authentic historical artifacts under the guidance of our curatorial team.

  • “Liberty Days In Action” Photo Contest: Capture the spirit of the event! Snap your best photos during Liberty Days 2026 and enter them for a chance to win a special museum prize pack.

Please Note: While the event runs from 9 AM to 4 PM both days, specific activity schedules may vary. Please ask our volunteers on-site for detailed timings of demonstrations and reenactments.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Are photographs allowed? Absolutely! We encourage you to capture and share your experience. Don’t forget to enter our Photo Contest for a chance to win!

  • Are pets allowed? Pets are welcome outdoors on a leash. However, only service animals and Barney, the Museum Cat, are allowed inside. Please note: loud noises from demonstrations may startle some animals.

  • Will there be loud noises? Warning: Reenactments include loud gunfire and simulated explosions. Please take necessary precautions if you or your children are sensitive to loud sounds.

  • Can we touch the displays or vehicles? For safety and preservation, please do not climb on vehicles or touch displays unless explicitly invited by a reenactor or staff member.

  • What payment methods do you accept? We accept cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Cash App for vendors and gift shop purchases.

  • Is seating provided? Seating is very limited. We highly recommend bringing your own lawn chairs for the best view of the demonstrations and battles.

 

Vendor Registration

Contact Details

Call Us

573-568-2055​

Address

17377 Stars and Stripes Way,
Bloomfield, MO 63825