THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC (G.A.R.) CIVIL WAR
MUSEUM & ARCHIVE
Presents a Free Zoom Program
Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC (G.A.R.) CIVIL WAR MUSEUM & ARCHIVE
Presents a Free Zoom Program
Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
Almost a Disaster: Dan Sickles at Gettysburg
By James Hessler
No participant in the Battle of Gettysburg created more controversy than Union General Daniel E. Sickles. A political general who was best known prior to the Civil War for murdering his wife's lover on the streets of Washington, General Sickles nearly created disaster on July 2 at Gettysburg by advancing his Third Corps without orders from General George Meade. Sickles then spent the next 50 years of his life declaring himself the hero of Gettysburg and is lesser known for his later preservation role in creating Gettysburg National Military Park. If Sickles's life was made into a movie, they would say it was unbelievable but join Gettysburg Licensed Battlefield Guide and author of "Sickles at Gettysburg" James Hessler to learn the real story.
James Hessler is a historian, author, and Licensed Battlefield Guide at Gettysburg National Military Park, where he has been interpreting the battle since 2003. He is the author or co-author of four books on the Gettysburg Campaign: Sickles at Gettysburg (2009), Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg (2015, with Wayne Motts), Gettysburg’s Peach Orchard (2019, with Britt Isenberg), and his most recent release, The First Day at Gettysburg (2025). His work has earned several distinguished book awards. He has also published articles in outlets such as Gettysburg Magazine.
Beyond his publications, Hessler co-created and hosts the popular Battle of Gettysburg Podcast, reaching a global audience of history enthusiasts. He has appeared as a public historian in major media such as the History Channel, NPR, Travel Channel, PCN-TV, and in programs and content development with the American Battlefield Trust.
Hessler is a frequent speaker at Civil War Round Tables and other historical organizations nationwide. His willingness to tackle controversial subjects continues to spark discussion and deepen understanding of Gettysburg’s enduring story. Besides Gettysburg, Hessler has led battlefield tours at numerous sites across the country. He currently serves in a board or advisory capacity for Gettysburg History (Adams County Historical Society), Gettysburg Museum of History, and the Little Bighorn Associates.
To reserve a virtual seat for this outstanding presentation, reply by e-mail to garmuslib1866@gmail.com
You will be sent a link with a password that will enable you to access the program within 24 hours of the start of the presentation.
Deadline for signing-up is Noon, Saturday, June 6, 2026
Links to the Program will go out after the deadline.
As a lover of history, you know how critical it is to keep history alive, especially today. We very much appreciate your continued support for the GAR Civil War Museum & Archive.
GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC MUSEUM & ARCHIVE
8110 Frankford Ave. (Holmesburg - N.E. Philadelphia), 19136
www.garmuslib.org