A Historical and Educational Day Trip in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
April 26, 2019
It's no secret that our home state of Pennsylvania has a long, rich history that reaches to the beginnings of the United States itself! It started off as one of the original 13 colonies, then became the State of Pennsylvania only four years after the Revolutionary War, and was home to many Civil War battles. Arguably one of the most famous battles was the turning point of the Civil War: The Battle of Gettysburg.
Gettysburg, PA is full of historical significance and attracts millions of visitors from across the nation every year! Located only 40 minutes from us in Carlisle, PA, this is a perfect spot to visit during your Pennsylvania stay. In this blog we would like to cover some of the best things to do in Gettysburg while you stay with us at Pheasant Field Bed and Breakfast.
Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center: The Museum and Visitor Center is a popular first stop for many visitors because it's a great way to familiarize yourself with the Civil War era and prepare you for the rest of your day in Gettysburg! The Museum contains 12 galleries, artifacts, a cyclorama, and a feature film narrated by Morgan Freeman!
Battlefield Tours: After getting acquainted with the Museum, head straight to the famous battlefield for a fascinating historical tour! There are multiple ways to take the tour and visitors are encouraged to choose which one is best for them. Tours are available with a Licensed Battlefield Tour Guide by car, bicycle, motor coach, and on horseback. You also have the option to take self-guided tours or a four hour group bus tour!
Soldiers' National Cemetery: The Soldiers' National Cemetery is the site where President Abraham Lincoln gave the famous Gettysburg Address and is also the final resting place of over 3,500 Union soldiers. The Lincoln Speech Memorial is the only known monument that is dedicated to the speech, rather than the man. It contains a bronze bust of Lincoln along with the Gettysburg Address inscription and letter inviting Lincoln to speak at the commemoration. This is certainly an important historical site that you won't want to pass up!
Visit Historical Houses: There are many restored and preserved historical houses in the area that tell individual stories during the time of the Civil War. The David Wills House is the site where Abraham Lincoln stayed and put the finishing touches on the Gettysburg Address leading up to the ceremony. It is also the site where much of the Gettysburg Battle cleanup took place and even served as a hospital ground. The Shriver House serves as a reminder as to what civilian life was like during the Civil War and tells the story of the Shriver family and the two confederate soldiers who used their home as a sharpshooter's nest. The Jennie Wade House was preserved as a memorial to the only civilian who was tragically killed during the three-day Battle of Gettysburg. The House serves to tell her story and acquaint visitors with life during the Civil War. Another historical home which played an important part of our country's history is the Eisenhower Farm. Located adjacent to Gettysburg Battlefield, the farm served the President as a weekend retreat and a meeting place for world leaders. These historical spots are all must-sees and will prove to be both educational and eye opening!
Gettysburg Battle Reenactments: Every year on the anniversary of the famous Gettysburg Battle, the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee (GAC) puts on a three-day battle reenactment! From July 1-3 of every year, experience the sights and sounds of the battleground, watch historically accurate reenactments and demonstrations, and visit the replica village! This is a huge attraction every year and is something that you will want to put on your bucket list!
