GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

 

If you are interested in history such as myself, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania should be at the top of your list of historic destinations.

July 1st through July 3rd of 1863, this small town became a battlefield during the civil war.  Thousands of union and confederate soldiers lost their lives on these battlefields and their presence can be felt as you stroll among these fields and view the many monuments dedicated to these men who fought for what they strongly believed in.

There are many things to do in Gettysburg, including museums that focus on the Civil War itself and showcases many artifacts from that period of history.  Also visit the cemetery that on November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln spoke the famous Gettysburg Address, a speech that will never be forgotten.  During the first days of July, reenactments of the Civil War are held.  Something so amazing, you wouldn't want to miss!

For the more daring, there are haunted tours.  Many of the homes and battlefields of Gettysburg are known to be haunted.  In fact, Gettysburg is one of the most haunted places in America.  Because of the battle fought in Gettysburg and the horrific way these men died, their spirits are considered to be restless, still wandering this once farm land.  It is said that at night, people have seen camp fires ablaze on the battlefields, and during the early morning, as the sun is slowly coming up over the green field and dew sets upon the grass, figures of soldiers have been seen.

Don't forget on your visit to tour the Eisenhower house.  Nothing has been changed since the Eisenhower's occupants 22 years ago.

Our favorite place to stay while in Gettysburg is the Battlefield Bed and Breakfast.  This 1809 stone farmhouse sits on 46 acres of historic land.  It's like stepping back to the 19th century.  Rooms are decorated beautifully with the Civil War in mind, even the innkeepers dress in 19th century fashion.  Ghost stories are usually told on Saturday evenings.  Wake up to a delicious breakfast, then listen to the innkeeper (who is a Civil War re-enactor) as he speaks about how life may have been for these soldiers.  On Sunday afternoon, take a ride on the horse and carriage and see a demonstration of a working cannon.  There are many other events which take place at the Battlefield Bed and Breakfast.  Don't be alarmed by the ghost that leans against the banister, he's friendly.

Whatever the reason it may be for you to visit Gettysburg, take the time to pay respect to the soldiers, the men and boys who were sons, husbands and fathers that lost their life in one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War.

- C. S. Whiteford

 

The Battlefield Bed & Breakfast web site

 

 

The Gettysburg monument

 

The Battlefield Bed & Breakfast

 

The Battlefield Bed & Breakfast sitting room

 

The Battlefield Bed & Breakfast barn

 

 

. . . "The world will little note, nor long remember, what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here". . .

- Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address