SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Warrenton native Sarah Cunningham has been named as the next National Park Service superintendent of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield near Springfield.

“I am honored to be selected as the superintendent of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, where my career began 15 years ago,” said Cunningham. “It is an incredible opportunity and privilege to join the park’s outstanding staff, volunteers, partners and the community in telling the diverse stories of the Civil War.”

National Park Service Regional Director Bert Frost announced the selection of Cunningham as superintendent, effective Sept. 27.

“I am pleased to welcome Sarah Cunningham as superintendent of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield,” said Frost. “Sarah will be a great asset for Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield with her broad understanding of park operations and leadership.”

Cunningham is currently serving as the acting superintendent of the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Parks Group (SOCA) in South Carolina, which includes Cowpens National Battlefield, Kings Mountain National Military Park, Ninety Six National Historic Site, and the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Prior to accepting this role in December 2019, Cunningham was the Chief of Integrated Resources and Facilities at SOCA.

Cunningham also served as Acting Superintendent for Guilford Courthouse National Military Park from October 2018 through February 2019. She has previously held interpretive park ranger positions at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, and Ninety Six National Historic Site. Her experience spans multiple fields including interpretation, education, volunteer and partner programs, facilities and resource management.

Cunningham grew up in Warrenton, exploring nature around her. She enjoys reading and the performing arts, trying different cuisines and spending time outdoors hiking and kayaking.

Cunningham earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Missouri State University where she studied history. Cunningham went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Public History with a concentration in Museum Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Cunningham continued her education and received a Master of Science in Resource Interpretation from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield preserves the site of the first major battle of the Civil War in the West. The Confederate victory on Aug. 10, 1861, focused greater national attention on the war in Missouri, leading to greater federal military action.

Wilson’s Creek Administrative Office is located 10 miles southwest of Springfield, at 5242 S. State Hwy ZZ, Republic, MO 65738.