Gettysburg: Secrets of Gettysburg Walking History Tour

The Gettysburg Walking History Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the town’s lesser-known stories and secrets. Beyond the famous Civil War battle, the tour unveils Gettysburg’s fascinating ties to "dark tourism" and the tale of "Gettysburg Eddie." However, the true gems lie in the roles of forgotten figures like Joseph Sherfy and Captain William Miller, whose contributions have been overshadowed by the town’s more prominent historical events. Intriguing connections to World War II and the Spanish Flu pandemic further demonstrate Gettysburg’s rich and multifaceted history, inviting the curious to uncover its hidden depths.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Historical Tours In Gettysburg.

Key Points

• The Gettysburg Walking History Tour explores Gettysburg’s connection to ‘dark tourism’ and the captivating tale of ‘Gettysburg Eddie’, a figure struggling with alcoholism.

• The tour highlights the stories of forgotten local figures like Joseph Sherfy, a farmer whose orchard was in the line of fire, and Captain William Miller, a Union artillery officer.

• It covers Gettysburg’s link to World War II as a training site and convalescent hospital, as well as the impact of the Spanish Flu outbreak on the local community.

• The tour promises an immersive exploration of Gettysburg’s lesser-known stories and secrets, offering a unique experience for history buffs and the curious.

• The tour meets at the Brickhouse Inn, with the guide easily identifiable in a Junket t-shirt and carrying a flag, ensuring a prompt start for the 2-hour walking tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The 2-hour Gettysburg Walking History Tour provides an immersive exploration of the untold stories and secrets beyond the famous Civil War battle. Led by expert local guides, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Gettysburg’s connection to World War II, the devastating Spanish Flu pandemic, and other lesser-known historical events.

Participants will travel back in time, discovering Gettysburg’s link to ‘dark tourism‘ and the fascinating tale of ‘Gettysburg Eddie.’ Along the way, they’ll uncover the stories of forgotten figures like Joseph Sherfy and Captain William Miller, gaining a deeper understanding of the town’s rich and complex history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious to learn more, this tour offers a unique and captivating experience.

Highlights

Participants will travel back in time to the years before and after the historic Battle of Gettysburg, uncovering the town’s fascinating link to ‘dark tourism’ and the captivating tale of ‘Gettysburg Eddie.’

Guests will dive into the stories of forgotten figures like Joseph Sherfy and Captain William Miller, whose lives were forever intertwined with this iconic American battlefield.

The tour promises an immersive exploration of Gettysburg’s hidden gems, including:

• Gettysburg’s connection to World War II and the Spanish Flu pandemic
• The eerie legacy of the town’s ‘dark tourism’ sites
• Insights into the lives of ordinary residents during extraordinary times
• Unexpected twists and turns that reveal Gettysburg’s untold history.

Meeting Point

Tours meet in front of the Brickhouse Inn at 452 Baltimore Street, where guests should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

The guide will be wearing a Junket t-shirt and carrying a flag to easily identify themselves.

This convenient meeting point allows the tour to commence promptly, as guests gather and prepare to embark on their journey through Gettysburg’s captivating history.

The guide’s attire and flag ensure participants can quickly locate them, streamlining the start of the tour.

With this organized meeting process, the tour can dive right into exploring the untold stories and secrets of Gettysburg, setting the stage for an immersive and enriching experience.

Important Information

The tour takes place rain or shine, ensuring guests can explore Gettysburg’s history regardless of the weather conditions.

It’s important to note that the walking tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments, as the route may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately.

Participants should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in to ensure a smooth start.

The tour guide will be easily identifiable in a Junket t-shirt and carrying a flag.

Those with mobility concerns may find the tour route difficult to navigate.

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Booking Details

You can easily book your spot on the Gettysburg Walking History Tour, as it’s likely to sell out. The cost starts from $24.98 per person, and you can reserve your place now and pay later. Plus, you can take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to explore Gettysburg’s lesser-known stories and secrets, delving into the town’s connection to WWII, the Spanish Flu, and more. Led by an expert local guide, the 2-hour walking experience promises to transport you back in time, revealing the untold tales that lie beyond the famous Civil War battle.

Dark Tourism and ‘Gettysburg Eddie’

Exploring Gettysburg’s link to ‘dark tourism’, the walking tour sheds light on the tale of ‘Gettysburg Eddie’, a figure who’s captivated visitors for decades.

This enigmatic character, Eddie Plank, was a professional baseball player who spent his final years in the Gettysburg area. His story intertwines with the town’s darker history, including the aftermath of the Civil War battle and the devastating 1918 Spanish Flu outbreak.

As the tour explores, visitors can:

• Discover the hidden gravesite where ‘Gettysburg Eddie’ is buried
• Learn about his struggles with alcoholism and its impact on his life
• Understand Gettysburg’s emergence as a ‘dark tourism’ destination
• Explore the town’s macabre connections beyond the famous battle

Forgotten Figures: Joseph Sherfy and Captain William Miller

Along With exploring the tale of ‘Gettysburg Eddie’, the walking tour also shines a light on two other lesser-known figures from Gettysburg’s past – Joseph Sherfy and Captain William Miller.

Sherfy was a local farmer whose orchard was right in the line of fire during the battle. Though his property was devastated, he went on to host wounded soldiers in his home.

Meanwhile, Captain Miller was a Union artillery officer who played a key role in the town’s defense. His home was also caught in the crossfire, and he narrowly escaped capture.

These forgotten heroes offer a deeper glimpse into Gettysburg’s storied history beyond the famous battle.

Gettysburg’s Link to WWII and Spanish Flu

Gettysburg’s connection to World War II and the Spanish Flu pandemic extends beyond its famous Civil War legacy, as the town’s history intertwines with these 20th-century events in fascinating ways.

During WWII, the town became a training site for the U.S. Army, while the Spanish Flu outbreak of 1918 devastated the local community.

Visitors can discover:

• Gettysburg’s role as a military hub, including the use of the town’s college as a convalescent hospital
• The impact of the Spanish Flu, which claimed the lives of many Gettysburg residents
• How the town’s resilience and recovery shaped its post-war identity
• Insights into how these events echo through Gettysburg’s rich historical narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour lasts for 2 hours, allowing participants to explore the town’s untold stories and secrets beyond the famous battle of Gettysburg. This walking tour provides an in-depth look at the town’s past.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, as the guide wants visitors to capture the sights and scenes of Gettysburg. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the tour experience for others.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for the Tour?

The tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments, as it’s a 2-hour walking tour. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate guests with special needs – it’s best to inquire about accessibility options when booking the tour.

Are Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

Yes, the Gettysburg tour offers discounts. Customers can save 10% on bookings by reserving in advance. There may also be discounts available for seniors, students, or military personnel. Checking the website or contacting the tour provider is recommended to inquire about any current promotions.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers private tours that allow groups to tailor the experience to their specific interests and needs, ensuring an engaging and memorable exploration of Gettysburg’s lesser-known history.

Recap

The Gettysburg Walking History Tour offers a captivating exploration of the town’s lesser-known stories and secrets.

Beyond the famous battle, the tour uncovers Gettysburg’s fascinating links to dark tourism, World War II, and the Spanish Flu pandemic, providing an immersive and insightful experience for history enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in uncovering Gettysburg’s hidden gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: