Why does Gettysburg hold a special place in
your heart?
Friends of Gettysburg members were asked this question in the latest edition of the quarterly newsletter. Member responses appear below.
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Member Responses
I have moved from Pittsburgh to Florida 7 years ago, but before I left one of my classes for my BA was a three day trip to Gettysburg. I feel I learned more about the Civil War in those 3 days than the rest of my entire life. In the 42 years I lived in Pennsylvania the trips I took as a child with my parents were nothing more than a vacation. When I revisited Gettysburg (during this project for school), Our guide gave us details that had shivers running down my spine. We were allowed to make the walk to the high water mark, it gave us the experience of what General Lee’s men must have felt. The view from Little Round top showed the splendor of a beautiful countryside and left feeling of sadness for the men who gave their lives. While watching the movie and reading the book (Killer Angels), You relived a sense of being in that time frame for just a moment, no one can ever experience the true battle as it occurs, but that trip has been etched in my memory forever and I look forward to the next time I can relive that experience.
Chuck Wolbert
I have visited the battlefield at Gettysburg over twenty times and I never get bored. It seems every time I come I learn something new about the battle. It is a very special place for me; I can feel that something of extreme proportions happened here. The feeling is everywhere.
Glan Cahil
My husband and I just love coming to Gettysburg; its the atmosphere and just amazing what has happened in the town. The new visitor center is perfect and we recently came and saw the Cyclorama; we were amazed. They did a wonderful job on restoring the painting and the 3D effects were great. We have been coming now for almost six years. ( two or three times a year; bringing grandchildren). We read the book "Days of Darkness" by William G. Williams and we made a trip and walk the town looking for house of the town people that was mention in the book. We also like Remembrance Day, the people dressed up in period clothes. Gettysburg is a wonderful small town and we will continue to visit; we see something different every time we visit. Thanks for our wonderful visits.
Lee and Karen Campbell, Byesvile, OH
Gettysburg has more meaning to me because I have a great-great-grandfather who fought there and was wounded. I'm currently trying to identify any other ancestors who were also at Gettysburg.
Edward Braun
Gettysburg continues to interpret its history in keeping historic buildings well maintained. The town gets more beautiful every year. Much attention is paid to historical accuracy and landscapes being put back to as close to the 1863 look makes for more realistic viewing of the battlefield. It is wonderful that history is kept alive in Gettysburg and that so many people are involved in making it interesting and a great learning experience. Our soldiers would be very proud to know that what they did here in the summer of 1863 has not nor will it ever be forgotten!
Donald Clark
My maternal great great grandfather was killed in the Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3, 1863). His name is John Small . Two of his brothers were also killed in the Battle of Antietam. John was married to a lady whose first name was Ann. Her maiden name is unknown. All I know is that the father (my grgrgr grandfather) of these three men killed in the Civil War owned a nursery in Astoria, New York (Long Island). My mother told me he was never the same after this tragedy. After John Small died his widow, Ann, married a Mr. Milner. My gr grandmother, Elizabeth Ann Small (She married a Thomas Murray--born 1853, died 1927) was the youngest child of John and Ann Small. She was three years old when her father was killed in the Battle of Gettysburg. She lived in Elmhurst, NY, in the borough of Queens. She died on January 3, 1948. I have a metal pin that states on a metal bar "Gettysburgh." (Why there is an "h" at the end, I don't know.). Hanging from it is a silver colored cross with "Minugh Haft, 65th Reg t, N,Y,S or L, N," printed on it. Inside this silver colored cross is a red cross. I also have a small metal bugle?, which I believe gets attached to a uniform and a round metal piece with a five-pointed star on the inside of a metal circle which may also be attached to a uniform. I also have a note stating "Army Badge, Cross, 6th Corps, White, 2nd Division, Adopted 1865. I do not have this white army badge. I don't know where my grgr grandfather and his brothers are buried. Maybe he is at The Soldiers' and Airmen's Home National Cemetery in Washington D.C., which is one of a dozen or so graveyards established in 1862 for Civil War soldiers. This cemetery is one of the lesser-known capital spots related to the conflict.
Barbara
I visit each September (since 2002) with a heavy heart on behalf of my beloved son's memory. At Lincoln Square, his Memorial Brick lay in the shadow of the Civil War Soldier's Monument and I'm thankful for the opportunity to leave something tangible, however small, in his favorite place.
He was a thoroughly, dedicated and complete Civil War History "nut", and you'd typically find him engrossed in a Civil War History book quietly reading after work and on weekends, and carrying one of his treasured books wherever he went.
When time permitted, we headed for places like Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania and Harper's Ferry. He became my interpreter and personal Battlefield Guide and his enthusiasm and depth of knowledge never ceased to amaze me; it was also contagious, apparently and I felt the strong desire to continue in his memory, which I still do six years later.
I like to think that perhaps he's with me each September 18th, and that maybe, just maybe, his spirit lingers there while reflecting and recounting historic events along with the souls of those who bravely fought and died upon this Hallowed Ground of Gettysburg.
Anonymous, Wilmington, Del.
Hello,
I have long been drawn to the story of the campaign and battle of Gettysburg, ever since visiting the field with my parents as a teenager in the 1960's. As a retired member of the Canadian Army, I have conducted several field trips to Gettysburg since 1982. For me, it is the drama of the three days that intrigues me: the things that were almost done, but not quite; the actions taken, just in time, or not; the reports made, accurately, or just not quite accurately enough; the decisions taken, based on information complete, or just not quite complete; the probable death of a Canadian member of the 20th Maine at Little Round Top on July 2nd; and the charge attempted, with no real chance of success. There were so many instances of coming so close to success, and not attaining it, or attaining it by the slimmest of margins. And, as a retired Armoured Corps officer, the performances of Generals Buford and Stuart are of great professional interest to me. I was last there in 2004 with a guided tour. I expect to be back within a year or so, hopefully for a volunteer's weekend (I just HAVE to build a Virginia Worm Fence!) or a Seminar weekend. Or both, for that matter! I keep my hand in as a member of the First Corps, and my study/reading continues at a measured, and progressive, pace.
Gary Barling, First Corps, Petawawa, Ontario, Canada
My great-grandfather fought in the Civil War, joining Company B, 32nd Regiment of Massachusetts Infantry Volunteers when he was 17 in 1861. He continued to serve through the end of the war, even observing Grant and Lee as they met to negotiate. The reason that I know this is that he wrote letters to his mother, sister, friends almost weekly for the duration. And someone decided to save the letters in a wooden box that was passed down through the generations and the box has been in my posession for a number of years. I opened it about a year ago, deciding that I needed to read the letters. What a treasure! With the help of a lighted magnifying glass, his story came alive. Family, faith and patriotism and a good dose of the everyday life of a soldier has made a wonderful story. I have transcribed excerpts from the letters and printed them - 200 pages. He was at Gettysburg and described their movements and told who was there. We came to Gettysburg from California about 5 years ago for the first time (before I read the letters) and had a guide show us where they would have fought. After having lived the War through these letters, we have decided to visit again the sites that now have so much more meaning and will be back there a month from now. It was by chance that I read about the new Visitors Center, so instead of bypassing Gettysburg because we had already been there, we are excited about visiting again. So close to your opening, we hope to get tickets for Oct 1.
Ken Birdsall Ventura, CA
My great grandfathers fought there in July 1863, one losing an eye at the Peach Orchard battle. With his name of the Pennsylvania monument.
Shirley Lewis Butler
I have been to Gettysburg about three times and I am in awe every time-- all the misery that happened there. I lived in Manassas for about 10 years. I am an avid Civil War student. You have a beautiful piece of history there--I love it.
Bob Cottrell, Charleston, W.Va.
I grew up in Washington County, MD riding my bike and hiking the Antietam battlefield developing my interest in the Civil War and the soldiers who fought. I first visited the Gettysburg battlefield as a Boy Scout and became immersed in its story and landscape and go back often to walk its paths. I now live not too far from Manassas battlefield. These sites all capture me, but it is Gettysburg that continues to hold me because of the timing, geography, posture of the forces, duration of the battle, and the cadence and emotion of the Gettysburg address delivered after a much needed victory to keep the union of the states.
Daryl, Virginia
It's in my blood. From the first battle to the last that was fought on its lands. I'm drawn to it like a magnet.
Mrs. Lana Duffy
Gettysburg is very special to me and my family. My father's side of the family is related to Virginia "Jennie" Wade. It is not only the history of the battle but the history of our family.
Julia Houle
Why do i like gettysburg? My family and i have been visiting gettysburg at least once a year, for the past 12 years. Each time we visit i experience the same feeling of awe. I continue to be amazed at what took place there, those three days in july, 1863. i truly admire the courage of each and every soldier who gave his life during those three days. the beauty and serenity of the entire battlefield is something that can't be explained, one has to be there to experience it first hand. i particulary enjoy the quietness and solitude of the battlefield after the tourists have left for the day. i can be on the battlefield, close my eyes and picture in my mind the soldiers and what those three days must have been like.i can picture them sitting after the battles and can hear them talking amongst themselves of the severity of the battle and the loss of comrades. what a beautiful place.
Jean Clayton
Indeed, The Gettysburg battlefield has always been special to me and my family. My great grandfather, Col. George Ward, was killed there on the second day while leading the 15th Massachusettts regiment. It is sacred ground to all who perished there and marks the turning part in the southern rebellion. The Union was preserved.
David Ward, Orleans, Mass.
I have a very special reason for visiting Gettysburg. My Great Great Grandfather Major Charles A Barnes was stationed with the Ninth Pa reserves 38th reg. between the two round tops. His name is on the plaque at the Pa monument. I always go there & it makes me very proud to know a relative of mine was there.
Gerald P Barnes
My Husband and I have been coming to Gettysburg the past two years, and once again plan on an autumn trip this year. Gettysburg is so special because it offers history, art, romance, shopping, antiques, fairs, dining, tours and so much more. The feeling in the air is so incredible. Being Civil War buffs, it all seems so right! Can't wait for our return.
Kathy, Long Island, NY
My wife and I fulfilled a 50 year old dream of mine when we visited Gettysburg in June of 2005. Ever since I can remember and first heard about the battle in the early 1950’s, a visit to Gettysburg has been on my “to do” list, but for whatever reason, until 2005 was never realized.
Our visit was magnificent. The people were friendly, the Park Service Guide and everyone we came into contact with, seemed to go out of their way to make us feel welcome. They were simply outstanding! As residents from Wisconsin, our knowledgeable Park Guide personalized our tour by showing us some of the engagements the Wisconsin “Iron Brigade” took part in and related other little known facts about the battle that added greatly to our tour. Securing the services of a Park Guide was one of the best decisions we made during our Gettysburg visit is something I recommend highly.
The historic and patriotic impressions we both experienced run the gamut from pride, horror, admiration and sorrow and defy any attempt by me to verbalize. It is my thought that Gettysburg is something you have to experience personally for no book, movie or website can capture the emotion and grandeur of the park and what happened there. It is indeed an “American Experience” and it is our hope to return someday.
Peter & Sharon Passick, Muskego, WI
I am interested in Gettysburg because of family history. My great-grandfather, Charles W. Griest, was a Quaker conscientious objector who farmed in York Springs. On the first day of the battle, he volunteered to take a government message to the Union Army in Gettysburg. He did this by hiding the message in a hollowed out cornstalk. When he reached Gettysburg, he could not return and stayed there for the remainder of the battle. During this time he was shot in the leg. (This story was published in the Gettysburg Times fairly recently, probably the '80's.) Because of this volunteer service, he was invited by Mr. Wills to attend the dedication of the National Cemetery and given the saddle blanket used by President Lincoln on his ride to the cemetery. The blanket remained in the possession of my family until the 1930's when my grandfather, Charles J. Griest, owner of Griest's Park in York Springs, went bankrupt during the depression. He then sold the saddle blanket to the museum. Because it was sold and not donated, there was no record of its provenance.
In addition, my father, E. Ross Koons, grew up on Breckenridge Street where his mother kept a rooming house for the families of soldiers stationed at Camp Colt during World War I. He and his friends spent many summer days roaming the Battlefield and collecting bullets and other souvenirs. They also acted as unofficial guides for tourists before the Park Service Guide Program was started.
At the age of 4, I attended the 75th Anniversary Celebration and the dedication of the Peace Light; and have visited the Battlefield many times in my 74 years.
These are my reasons for being interested in Gettysburg and donating to the Foundation.
Carole (Koons) Williams, Fairmont, WV
In 1997 I discussed with my father, an Iwo Jima survivor, the possibility of taking a trip somewhere together. We decided to spend 3 days in Gettysburg. I had not been to the battlefield as an adult, so it would be like visiting for the first time. My knowledge of the battle was pretty limited. I had read “The Killer Angels” and had seen the movie “Gettysburg”, so I was anxious to see Little Round Top and the field which Pickett’s men charged across. The visit stirred something in my soul, which I can only describe as unlocking a passion that needed to be filled with knowledge of the events of July1-3 of 1863.
The grandeur of the battlefield, with all of the monuments was inspiring. I stood at the Lee statue and looked across the field toward the copse of trees and was stunned by its beauty, its simplicity and by the knowledge of the horror and courage that took place there. I knew I needed to read more about this battle. I strolled through the national cemetery at sunrise on the second morning. This was quite a powerful experience. Every visit since has included a sunrise visit to the cemetery. I have been to Gettysburg 5 times with family and friends since that trip. I own 28 books on the battle and am usually reading something about the battle. I have 7 regimental histories.
These are fascinating accounts of the battle from a small and unique perspective. Many of the monuments are tributes to someone in the regiment who did something extraordinary during the battle. At every visit, I like to walk different parts of the battlefield and see it from the perspective of what a certain regiment faced. I have stood at the spot where General Sickles was told to deploy his corps on July 2, 1863 and peered to the west. I can understand why he wanted to move forward to the Peach Orchard and Emmitsburg Road. It does appear to be much better ground. Even though his corps took quite a beating, he forced Longstreet and his men to alter tactics and make new plans on the fly. Maybe this even bought enough time for brigades from the Fifth Corps to secure Little Round Top.
I have been a member of “Friends of Gettysburg” for 6-7 years. Last year my 15 year old son was looking at the magazine and asked me if we could go the the volunteer work day together. It did not take me long to say yes. It was interesting to meet so many people with the same passion and enthusiasm. I have never seen so many people eager and willing to work. This year we renewed old friendships and formed new ones. We are collecting E-Mail addresses and enjoy corresponding with our “Gettysburg Friends."
I am proud to be a member of Gettysburg Foundation. It’s mission to restore and help maintain the battlefield is one that honors those who gave their all to fight for a belief. Gettysburg is a unique American Treasure, one that was molded in courage and blood.
Kerry Hotaling, Ludlow, Mass.
Gettysburg is special to me because it keeps history " alive". This small town and the surrounding battlefield is such an important part of our country's history and unfortunately today many people are losing that sense of history. It's so important to maintain that- especially for the next generations. My husband and I consider Gettysburg our " second home."
Linda Patches, Annville, PA
I have been a member for almost two years now. I love coming to Gettysburg and try to come here at least once a year sometimes twice. I have fallen in love with the quaint historic charm of the town, the beautiful countryside, and the historic battlefield that my great-great-great Grandfather of the 14th Georgia Regiment, Captain William Owen Clegg of Company F, came to fight in July of 1863 for his beliefs and dreams of a Confederate States of America. He survived the battle, the dream of an indepenedent Confederate nation died and he left Georgia after the war to move to Texas which is where I was born. I feel a connection to Gettysburg battlefield because my gr-gr-gr Grandfather came here under such strong convictions ready to sacrifice his life. I return to Gettysburg again and again with anticipation and to honor and remember what my gr-gr-gr Grandfather and all the soldiers, Confederate and Union, no matter what opposing convictions they had, who fought with courage and valor so many years ago.
Mary V. Zycha Deer Park, TX
Gettysburg is special to me because my family had three members who fought for the Union. My Greatgrandfather was at Gettysburg and his name is on the Pennsylvania Memorial. And he survived the war and was extremely proud of his service and the men he served with. His brother was in the calvary and fought in the west, he was killed at Shelbyville Tennessee and is buried at Stones River Union Cemetery. I don't know much about the third one but I will try to learn more in the future. This war as bad as it was, was necessary in my opinion because it made us who we are today even though I don't like what is going on in our country with some issues.
Fred Wertman
Dear Gettysburg Foundation,
I am a frequent visitor to Gettysburg as well as a member of your wonderful organization. I have been to the battlefield 25 times and each time I visit, I feel as though my spirit is reborn.
Without a doubt, Gettysburg is a source of peace for me, a place where I can clear my head and reconnect with the “important things.” Being on the field and realizing what happened there, the sacrifices that were made, the heartache that is felt there, is a moving experience. One of my favorite Gettysburg activities is the simple act of wandering the field and town. As I wander, I try to place myself in the heart of the battle. In fact, as time has passed, I have begun to believe that I have a connection to this place. I get a feeling of belonging that I don’t usually get. My Gettysburg experience is truly special to me.
I wish to thank you for the job you have done preserving this vital piece of American history. I plan to continue to visit Gettysburg both to honor the men who fought there as well as to recharge my spirit.
Thank you,
Dean Gross Bronxville, NY
My favorite place has to be the area of Pickett's Charge. Just last week I parked on the Confederate side near the North Carolina monument and took the walk with a few others that I did not know. It was interesting as we made the walk across the battlefield because the three of us talked as if we had a lot in common about this battle. It amazes me to think how these soldiers fought one another, knowing the men up front certainly wouldn't make it very far....yet, they marched onward!
Dean Mahlstedt
