Battle Walks at the Gettysburg National Military Park

Battle Walk Programs 


2025 Battle Walk programs will be on Saturdays at 10:00am.

These 2-hour intensive programs examine unique portions of the battlefield, cover significant distances, and cross rough/uneven terrain. It is strongly recommended that visitors bring plenty of water, appropriate seasonal clothing, and sturdy hiking shoes. Please park vehicles with all four wheels on the pavement. Programs may start and end at different locations.


June 7
Willard's Brigade: The Harpers Ferry Cowards
Presented by Ranger Matthew Atkinson
Start location: Pennsylvania Memorial, Auto Tour Stop 12
End location: George Wiekert Farm 

June 14
East Cavalry Field
Presented by Ranger John Nicholas
Start location: Parking lot, East Cavalry Field Road
End location: Cavalry Monument, Gregg Avenue

June 21
"It is Murder": The Fight(s) for Spangler's Spring
Presented by Ranger Daniel Brennan
Start location: Spangler's Spring, Auto Tour Stop 13
End location: Spangler's Spring , Auto Tour Stop 13

June 28
"We Were Right There When the Battle Begun": Free & Enslaved People during the Gettysburg Campaign
Presented by Ranger Rachael Nicholas
Start location: Abraham Brian Farm, Hancock Avenue
End location: Soldiers' National Cemetery, Auto Tour Stop 16

July 5
"For Nicaragua to Gettysburg": The Story of Birkett D. Fry and His Brigade on July 3, 1863
Presented by Licensed Battlefield Guide, Wayne Motts
Start location: Virginia Memorial, Auto Tour Stop 5
End location: The Angle, Auto Tour Stop 15

July 12
Myths, Martyrs and Memory: The Battle of Little Round Top
Presented by Ranger Chris Gwinn
Start location: Parking area at the intersection of Wheatfield Road and Sedgwick Avenue
End location: 20th Maine Monument, Wright Avenue

July 19
"Is that not a magnificent sight?": The 69th New York Storm the Wheatfield
Presented by Ranger Dan Welch
Start location: Pennsylvania Memorial, Auto Tour Stop 12
End location: Irish Brigade Monument, near Auto Tour Stop 9

July 26
The Sacrifice of the 16th Maine
Presented by Ranger John Hoptak
Start location: Eternal Light Peace Memorial, Auto Tour Stop 2
End location: Oak Ridge, Auto Tour Stop 3

August 2
"To move then, was against my better judgement": The 15th Alabama on July 2nd
Presented by Ranger Andrew Regiec
Start location: Alabama State Monument, South Confederate Avenue
End location: 20th Maine Monument, Wright Avenue


Weather modifications:

  • In the event of a thunderstorm or tornado warnings, or a heat index in excess of 103 degrees, all programs will be canceled.  

  • In the event of a heat index in excess of 91 degrees, programs will be shortened and modified. 

Schedule subject to change without notice.

Details

Duration 120-180 Minutes

Activity. Guided Tours

Pets Allowed Yes

Activity Fee. No

Reservations. No

Sacred Trust Talks & Book Signings at Gettysburg on July 1-3 & 5-6


Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg Foundation

Announce Sacred Trust Talks & Book Signings

July 1-3 & 5-6, 2025

 

Gettysburg, Pa. (May 28, 2025)—Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg Foundation are pleased to co-host the annual Sacred Trust Talks & Book Signings event at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. This year’s event will take place July 1-3 and July 5-6, 2025.

 

Sacred Trust 2025 brings together celebrated authors and historians to present engaging talks centered on the American Civil War, exploring its history, cultural impact and ongoing relevance. Each evening’s program will be held in The Kinsley Theater at the Museum & Visitor Center at 7 p.m. Attendance is free with tickets reserved in advance, and authors will be available for book signings before and after their presentations. Books are available to be purchased during the event. The schedule includes the following presenters and topics:

 

 

Free tickets for each evening’s event will be available online starting at 8 a.m. each day from June 9 through June 13, 2025, respectively. Tickets are limited to four per transaction and are expected to go quickly. Visitors are encouraged to reserve their seats early at GettysburgFoundation.org/Sacred-Trust. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with theater seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

“We are proud to continue this important tradition of bringing expert voices to Gettysburg,” said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “Sacred Trust offers a unique opportunity for visitors to deepen their understanding of the Civil War and its lasting significance.”

 

Sacred Trust 2025 complements ongoing activities at the Museum & Visitor Center, as well as Gettysburg National Military Park’s commemorative Battle Anniversary programming. Detailed information on the full schedule, speaker biographies and presentation topics can be found online at GettysburgFoundation.org/Sacred-Trust.

Free Family Day at Spangler Farm on Saturday, May 24, 2025,

Experience Living History at the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital This Summer 

Gettysburg, Pa. (May 20, 2025)—The Gettysburg Foundation invites the local community and visitors to step back in time this summer by exploring the historic 80-acre George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital. This remarkable site, once a thriving family farm transformed into a bustling Union Army field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg, opens its doors for a season filled with living history programs, special events and family-friendly activities.

  The George Spangler Farm played a vital role during and after the 1863 battle, serving as a field hospital for more than 1,900 wounded soldiers from both sides, as well as an artillery and ammunition reserve, provost guard station and temporary cemetery. Today, visitors can explore the meticulously restored original buildings and grounds, maintained by the Gettysburg Foundation to preserve its historical integrity.

  “The George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital offers a powerful window into the human side of the Battle of Gettysburg,” said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “We are excited to welcome families and history enthusiasts alike to experience firsthand the stories of courage, care and community that have shaped this site over the years.”

 Family Day at Spangler

The free Family Day event takes place Saturday, May 24, 2025, during Memorial Day weekend. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the historic site offers families an opportunity to engage with living historians and preservationists and enjoy educational activities on this special day. Guests can learn about Civil War medicine from the Blue & Gray Hospital Association, enjoy period games and doll-making with Colonel Roberts, discover the art of Victorian hair jewelry with Lucy Cadwallader, and learn about historic barn preservation efforts with Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC). Visitors can also view cannon demonstrations (without firing) and a Civil War Wheeling (Rosecrans) reproduction ambulance display and enjoy treats from Mr. G’s Old-fashioned Ice Cream.

  Limited parking is available on-site at 488 Blacksmith Shop Road, Gettysburg for the Family Day event.

 2025 Summer Season

Regular summer programming is offered most Saturdays from June 7 through Aug. 9, 2025 (closed June 14). Saturday programs include programming on the farm’s history at 11:15 a.m. and the field hospital at 1:45 p.m. Living historians with various Civil War groups, such as the W.S. Hancock Society, 4th Texas Company B Infantry, The Healing, the Patriot Daughters of Lancaster and Lucy Cadwallader, will be on-site in June for visitor interaction, presentations and demonstrations. Docents and volunteers will be on hand to share stories of the Spangler family and the civilians who lived through the battle.

 Admission to the historic site is free for the 2025 summer season. Access is via timed shuttles departing the nearby Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Visitors can reserve their timed shuttle/admission tickets by phone at 877-874-2478 or 717-334-2436, online at GettysburgFoundation.org/George-Spangler-Farm or in person at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg.

Civil War Days Will Return To Strasburg Rail Road In June

COMPLETE DETAILS AT THIS LINK

STRASBURG, Pa. — Strasburg Rail Road is set to host its second annual Civil War Days experience this June. On June 7 and 8 only, ticket holders can join hundreds of reenactors paying homage to the monumental events of the summer of 1863 when the Civil War moved north onto Pennsylvania soil.

In June of 1863, the Army of Northern Virginia, fueled by their recent victory in Chancellorsville, marched north to invade Southeastern Pennsylvania. Robert E. Lee mapped out their route: advance through Lancaster, capture the state capital and take Philadelphia. Their mission may have been a success if it weren’t for the unthinkable deed of a few Lancastrians.

On the night of June 28, 1863, a group of sharp-witted locals set fire to the covered bridge connecting York and Lancaster Counties, forcing Confederate troops to bypass the town entirely. This action, along with a series of other small events, is documented in history as the culmination of the Battle of Gettysburg three days later.

But what if that bridge was never burned? What if General John Reynolds, a Lancaster native, had to defend his hometown from Robert E. Lee’s approaching army? And what if the railroad, which was pivotal in moving troops and resources throughout the region, was seized by Confederate troops?

Civil War Days: The Summer of ‘63 is an immersive revival story that explores the fate of Lancaster and the Strasburg Rail Road if the bridge between York and Lancaster never burned. Guests are invited to buy tickets to board the train and watch hundreds of uniformed troops defend Lancaster in a series of battle vignettes that feature live encampments and cavalry and  artillery demonstrations. Ticket holders aboard the train can view each battle separately or ride multiple times to see different portions of the fictional story unfold over the course of the day.

“Civil War encampments aren’t unique to our region, but very few of them have live skirmishes that feature cavalry and artillery demonstrations,” said Alicia Cerankowski, Strasburg Rail Road’s Stationmaster. “These elements help bring that history to life — and is, what we believe, is part of the reason last year’s event was such a success. It feels very real,” she continued.

Civil War Days: The Summer of ‘63 runs Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8. Tickets are required to ride the train and watch the battles. Those interested in the event can see the full schedule, and secure Day passes, First Class, Coach, or Dining Car tickets to view the reenactment at www.strasburgrailroad.com.

 

MEDIA: Contact Alicia Cerankowski at 717-687-8421 or SRRTrain@strasburgrailroad.com for. more information.

 

About Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg Rail Road is a historic heritage railroad that offers visitors a unique and immersive journey into America’s rich railroad history. Chartered for passenger and freight services in June of 1832, Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continuously operating railroad in America.

Throughout the year the company offers a range of unique events — themed excursions, behind-the-scenes shop tours, and fine dining opportunities to name a few — that allow visitors to relive the era when steam locomotives dominated the rails of America.

For more information, train schedules, and ticket reservations, visit their website at www.strasburgrailroad.com, or reach them at 1-866-725-9666 or srrtrain@strasburgrailroad.com.

Eisenhower NHS To Commemorate 81st Anniversary of D-Day with Special Walking Tour of Gettysburg National Cemetery 

GETTYSBURG, PA— On June 6, 1944, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Allied Expeditionary Force embarked upon “the great crusade” as thousands of Allied troops landed in Normandy, France, to begin the liberation of Europe. To commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Normandy invasion, staff from Eisenhower National Historic Site will lead a special walking tour of D-Day burial sites in Gettysburg National Cemetery on Friday, June 6, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Initially established after the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place of American combat casualties from the Civil War through the Vietnam War. In the years following World War II, over 500 fallen soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines were brought back to Gettysburg for their final burial. This ranger program will explore the stories of those buried in Gettysburg who were killed in action during the D-Day invasion 81 years ago.

This free ranger program will meet at the Taneytown Road entrance to the Gettysburg National Cemetery. The program will last approximately one-hour.

More information can be found at www.nps.gov/eise.

 

www.nps.gov 

GAR Free Zoom Program May 4 - Women in the Civil War

 

THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC (G.A.R.) CIVIL WAR MUSEUM & ARCHIVE

 Presents a Free Zoom Program

Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.              

         “Uncommon Warriors: Women Soldiers of the American Civil War”

by Walt Lafty

Some 400-1,000 women served as soldiers during the Civil War. They cut their hair, donned male attire, fought battles, lived in germ-infested camps, and suffered wounds, death and imprisonment. At a time when men were being shamed for NOT serving, why would so many women run the risk of being shamed FOR serving? How did they pull it off? What happened to those who were caught? These are the brave women who will be discussed.

 

Walt Lafty is a historian with a focus on the American Civil War (1861-1865), but also World War 2, as well as the history of Ireland. He has been active in various Civil War groups for many years. Those include the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Museum where he serves as the research administrator and volunteer. He is also active in the Delaware Valley CWRT where he is a board member as well as a member of the preservation committee. Walt is also an active member of Baker-Fisher Camp 101 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in Hatboro and currently serves as the camp secretary. In addition, he is a member of the Old Baldy CWRT and the General Meade Society.

 

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 Saturday, 3, 2025 at Noon.

 

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

Bus Trip to Gettyburg NMP by PSU LV

Take a journey through history as we visit the iconic Gettysburg National Military Park and explore one of the most significant battlefields of the Civil War! This fun and educational trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike.

Trip Highlights: Guided tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield! Visit to the Seminary Ridge Museum and we will enjoy a lecture on Becoming a Solider, Emergency Medicine, Run the Hospital and Signal Corps Mending the Wounded! Explore the Beyond the Battlefield Museum.

Box lunch will be served at the museum. Guided tour of the East Calvary Battlefield

Cost: $125.00 (Includes transportation and guided tour, lecture, and lunch)

Registration Deadline: May 4, 2025 Seats are limited, so reserve your spot today!

To Register or for More Information: Contact Sara Roth at sbb106@psu.edu/610-285- 5059

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand!

Register Now: 2025 Summer and Fall Hikes, Tours & Lectures

Get ready to embark on an exciting journey through time with our Summer and Fall Hikes, Tours, and Lectures! Designed to engage with Trust supporters in-person and online, these tours promise an unforgettable experience whether you are a seasoned history buff or just curious about the past. This year takes us to some of America’s iconic battlefields—Antietam, Manassas, Gettysburg, Spotsylvania, and more.   

You’ll walk in the footsteps of your ancestors, uncover the stories behind these iconic battlefields, and gain a deeper understanding of why the work of the American Battlefield Trust is so vital. With our expert guides leading the way, you'll delve into the rich tapestry of American history.

Space is limited – Secure your spot now!

Can’t join us in the field? That’s okay! We're also offering a variety of online lectures covering topics from The Wounding of James Longstreet to Gettysburg's Connections to the Little Big Horn—and everything in between.   

Each hike, tour, and lecture have a registration fee associated with the session. These fees support American Battlefield Trust education efforts, allowing us to offer members more quality programming worldwide, while also helping to pay for permitting fees associated with our tours and in-person events.  

Come out and connect with fellow Trust supporters who share your passion for the past, creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Register now so that you don’t miss out on this opportunity to join us this summer and fall.   

Thank you for being a valued member of our community. We can't wait to explore the past with you!

Garry Adelman  
Chief Historian 
American Battlefield Trust

P.S. We are working with partners to add a few more tours and lectures. Check our event page this summer for more offerings.

Searching for Civil War Artifacts at Wm Patterson Farm in Gettysburg

From the Gettysburg Times:

Representatives from the U.S. Army Fort Belvoir 55th Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit and Gettysburg National Military Park rangers last week marked possible Civil War artifacts in the field behind the William Patterson Farm on Taneytown Road.

Last fall plans were made to extend the paved trail from the visitor’s center to Spangler Farm, which would cut through the Patterson Farm, said Jason Martz, Gettysburg National Military Park communications specialist.

We are doing this for “future visitors to be able to walk, bike ride and enjoy a more natural setting and enjoy more of the battlefield than ever before,” said Martz.

The field was marked where artifacts might lie buried, Martz said.

“Flags are where there was a GPS ping for something that was detected and noted as an archeological discovery,” he said.

Big machinery can’t go into the field before they have gone over the area with a fine-tooth comb, he said.

They will “identify on site, bag the item, take it to a lab, gently clean it, begin to assess what it is and then cobble together a story of what may have been there,” Martz said.

They will then go back to written records to see who was there and when, said Martz.

Events such as this are why the rules and regulations exist the way they do and “why we can’t just have anyone out metal detecting,” he said.

The walkaway project is expected to start in earnest in May or June, he said.

Readers may contact Elizabeth Mulewich at emulewich@gettysburgtimes.com.

Eisenhower NHS to Commemorate 80th Anniv of VE Day with Tours of Gettysburg Nat. Cem.

 

GETTYSBURG, PA—On May 8-10, Eisenhower National Historic Site will offer special ranger-guided tours of WWII burial sites in Gettysburg National Cemetery to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day and the end of WWII in Europe. Each program will begin at 5:30 pm at the Taneytown Rd. entrance to the cemetery.  

Eighty years ago, Victory in Europe (VE) Day—May 8, 1945—marked the end of the war in Europe. After years of fighting in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Western Europe, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Allied forces under his command had finally achieved victory over Nazi Germany. That victory came at an immense cost, one seen in burial grounds around the world, including Gettysburg National Cemetery.  

These walking tours will visit gravesites of soldiers, sailors, and airmen who died in the European Theater and were brought back to Gettysburg for final burial after the war. From North Africa to Italy, to the skies above Europe, and the final campaigns from France to Germany, each evening’s program will tell a crucial chapter of the story of how Victory in Europe was won eighty years ago.  

May 8—Chapter 1: North Africa to D-Day--From Operation Torch in 1942 to the preparation for D-Day in 1944, follow the War in Europe through the stories of those who fought and died from 1942 to early 1944.  

May 9—Chapter 2: The Air War in Europe--From air bases in England to the skies above Germany, hear the stories of those who engaged in aerial combat 80 years ago during WWII. 

May 10—Chapter 3: D-Day to VE Day--From the beaches of Normandy to the final surrender of Germany, visit the graves of those who fought and died in the final months of the war in Europe.   

Each program is free of charge and will last for approximately one-hour. More information can be found at www.nps.gov/eise