When looking down the quaint, peaceful streets of Gettysburg today, it's hard to believe that this docile borough was once sight to the notorious Battle of Gettysburg, which claimed the most casualties during the Civil War and marked a turning point in American history.
A visit to Gettysburg is a journey back in time for the more than three million tourists who venture out to this largest of small towns annually. Passing horse-drawn buggies and passersby, in traditional Civil War garb, add to the old-fashioned scene along with the many original houses, buildings and historical markers that still stand proud and timeless in today's modern world.
An excellent example of rich history, Gettysburg is a one-of-a-kind place like no other. As the seat of Adams County, it is home to more than 7,000 permanent residents. According to the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, tourism is the top industry in Adams County, Penn. (particularly in Gettysburg) and employs around 5,835 workers.
Gettysburg is located in close proximity to many other nationally, notable cities including: Philadelphia, Penn.; Harrisburg, Penn.; York, Penn.; Frederick, Md.; Baltimore, Md.; Washington, DC, and several others.
The Gettysburg Area School District comprises of three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Total enrollment consists of more than 2,850 students. Gettysburg College has an overall enrollment of students nearly as high. This accredited liberal arts and sciences institution, founded in 1832, attracts students from all over the world. Other associated area schools of higher education include the Lutheran Theology Seminary and Harrisburg Area Community College (Gettysburg Campus).
Though most renowned for being the sight of the infamous Civil War battle and President Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address, the town's history dates back to the late 1700s. Samuel Gettys, settled a farmstead on the land and established a tavern operation in 1761.
Another early resident to the area was Irish-born Rev. Alexander Dobbin, who purchased 300 acres of surrounding land in 1774 and is responsible for the establishment of the Dobbin House, which still stands today. By 1785 James Gettys, son of Samuel Gettys, purchased a 116-acre tract of land from his father's farmstead and is most widely attributed to the founding of Gettysburg as a town.
The area saw growth in a number of ways, from commerce in agricultural transport, wagon and carriage-making and the formation of religious and educational establishments. By 1858, the Gettysburg Railroad extended into town, further increasing Gettysburg's connection to commerce.
Yet it was the battle of the Civil War that took place between July 1 and 3 in 1863 that really put this small town on the map. The Battle of Gettysburg has gone down in history as the most famous and crucial of Civil War battles, having claimed 51,000 casualties. As the popular pun goes, “the rest is history.”
The legacy of Gettysburg as a community has grown considerably since its establishment and defining historical milestones. As a popular tourist destination, today's borough boasts a host of activities and attractions.
Come take part in a historical or ghost tour. Visit one of the community's many museums. Take a hiking trail and see several sights. Great shopping venues await you at the Gettysburg Village and Lincoln Square.
Enjoy theatrics at the famed Majestic Theater and delicious, diverse dining at one of the area's many restaurants. Annual programs and seasonal events also make for a wonderful visiting experience. Gettysburg is a “great borough” for all who come to visit.
If you are one of the folks who call Gettysburg home, you know how lucky you are! If you are a visitor planning a trip, click on one of the following sites to learn more. www.gettysburgfoundation.org, www.gettysburg.travel/index.asp, www.gettysburg.com, www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm and www.achs-pa.org.
