For those who lived in Gettysburg in July 1863, the battle was a frightening experience. Take a downtown tour and learn the stories of the families who lived through one of the most horrific times in American history. Visit the Shriver House, the Train Depot, the David Wills House and dine in the Dobbin House for lunch.

The Battle of Gettysburg wasn’t all about blackpowder and wool uniforms. The human face of this trying time is told through a guided or self-guided (recommended for families) civilian story tour. Learn about the town’s anxiety, struggle and heroism as the mere 2,400 residents were suddenly confronted with 170,000 soldiers…often sneaking in through back alleys and hiding in attics! Hear stories of homes confiscated, families hiding in their basements and the massive cleanup effort that followed this famous battle. At the beginning of the confrontation, kids often thought it fun to watch until a bullet whissed by their window or a headless soldier on horseback flew by.

Stops to Tour:

Begin your tour at the GETTYSBURG LINCOLN RAILROAD STATION (Carlisle Street) where President Lincoln arrived on November 18, 1863 for the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetary. From here, Lincoln walked up the street a little ways to the Town Square (now called Lincoln Square). At the time of his arrival, the station was still being cleaned up after doubling as a makeshift hospital after the battle. As Lincoln arrived, coffin boxes were still being prepared to transport bodies to their loved ones miles away. The Station is run by the NPS and carries no admission. Donations appreciated.

Next, tour the new DAVID WILLS HOUSE (pg 148, KLP), where the president put the finishing touches on the Gettysburg Address. At the invitation of David Wills, President Abraham Lincoln comes to Gettysburg to “deliver a few appropriate remards” for the dedication of the new cemetary. The museum tour is self-guided and takes approximately one hour. The museum includes five galleries, 2 recreated rooms (Mr. Wills law office and the bedroom Lincoln used overnight) and two films. Admission. www.davidwillshouse.org. It is especially touching to see some of the original artifacts in that guest bedroom overlooking the town square.  Once you leave this building, pop a picture with the Lincoln statue as he points the way to the cemetery. You can follow in Lincoln’s footsteps as he paraded from the town square to the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, where he so eloquently delivered his immortal speech.  (walking distance is 3/4 miles) This address, while only two minutes in length, is a legacy speech about renewed hope for the townspeople suffering great inconvenience and still people today. 

YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED ON THE BATTLEFIELD…DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THE FAMILIES LIVING IN TOWN? Go and find out. (Disclosure: my recent press tour of Gettysburg and Adams County was arranged by: www.gettysburg.travel, however no promises were made as to content of post and book writings)

Do you like exploring countryside hidden gems near large cities? Well, that’s what KIDS LOVE TRAVEL is all about – hundreds of fun stops and unique spots around your favorite state.

Meandering some to Explore more…

(this post was taken from excerpts of KIDS LOVE PENNSYLVANIA available in retail and online stores NOW!)