2025 News

The Gettysburg Foundation invites the community and visitors to journey back in time this late summer and early fall with free Family Day events at the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital, a key historic site from the Battle of Gettysburg. On Saturdays, Aug. 30 and Oct. 11, 2025, families can explore the 80-acre farm, engage with living historians and enjoy a variety of educational and fun activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, with limited parking available onsite at 488 Blacksmith Shop Road, Gettysburg.

The George Spangler Farm served a critical role during and after the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, transforming from a family farm into a bustling Union Army field hospital that cared for more than 1,900 wounded soldiers from both sides. Beyond its medical role, the site was also an artillery and ammunition reserve, provost and temporary cemetery. Today, the Gettysburg Foundation has carefully preserved the farm’s original buildings and grounds, allowing visitors to connect with this powerful piece of history.

“The George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital offers a window into the human side of the 1863 battle through the narrative and accounts of both the soldiers and the civilians,” said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “We are thrilled to welcome local and visiting families to experience firsthand the stories of courage, care and community that have shaped this site over the years.

Family Day at Spangler
The Aug. 30 Family Day event coincides with Labor Day weekend and features living history presentations by the Officers & Ladies for the Union and period games and doll-making with Colonel Roberts.

Fall Family Day at Spangler
On Oct. 11, during the Columbus Day weekend, visitors can delve into Civil War medicine with the Blue & Gray Hospital Association and interact with the Officers for the Union & Ladies for the Union.

Both events also include cannon demonstrations (without firing), a Civil War Wheeling (Rosecrans) ambulance on display, barn preservation talks by Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC) and treats from Mr. G’s Old-fashioned Ice Cream.These Family Day events offer unique and engaging opportunities for all ages to learn about an important chapter in American history in a welcoming and interactive environment. Programming is subject to change.

Updated Oct. 8, 2025