Gettysburg Prepares for Major Civil War and Lincoln Commemorations

Thousands of visitors are arriving in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to mark the anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and honor Civil War soldiers during an eight-day series of events.

Work has already started in Lincoln Square to prepare for the commemorations, which run from Saturday through the following Saturday, with major highlights scheduled for November 18 and 19.

“It’s really bringing Gettysburg to life. And these folks really helped do that. And it’s an amazing time to come and watch them march downtown, do all these history programs. There’s also ceremonies, but there’s a lot of excitement, too,” Carl Whitehill, vice president of Destination Gettysburg, said.

The events also mark the conclusion of Adams County’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Organizers in Gettysburg planned their commemorations for the fall.

Thousands expected in Gettysburg for Civil War and Lincoln events — wgaltv

“We as a country have been commemorating this 250th anniversary year of our nation. And here in Adams County, our goal was to have 250 events for America 250. We actually had 295. This is the capstone of that entire effort,” Charles Gable, Gettysburg borough manager, said.

Gable said that planning for these late-season tributes took years. “It’s such a solemn occasion that we need to remember that. But this year, for America 250, we’re doing it a little bit. It’s a little bit elevated level than previous years,” he said.

Wednesday stands out as one of the most anticipated days of the schedule. A rare steam engine from the Northern Central Railway of York features a departure that will recreate President Lincoln’s historic arrival.

“Wednesday is the really big day with the steam engine train. Come in with Lincoln and his entourage getting off, walking up, processing to the Wills House behind us here,” Gable said.

Visitors can find full program schedules and specific dedication events online. Early weekend highlights include cannon firings and a Civil War book sale at the Beyond the Battle Museum on Biglerville Road, followed by tintype photography sessions at the Shriver House Museum on Baltimore Street on Wednesday and Thursday.