Gettysburg: The Wonder Womens Hidden Valor Walking Tour

The Gettysburg: The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to uncover the untold stories of female heroism during the Battle of Gettysburg. Through this immersive experience, attendees will learn about the pivotal contributions of Jennie Wade and Elizabeth Thorn, whose sacrifices and resilience left an indelible mark on this historic conflict. The tour not only sheds light on the immense toll of war but also celebrates the indomitable human spirit that persevered, even in the face of unimaginable hardship. As you explore the streets of Gettysburg, prepare to be inspired by the hidden valor of these remarkable women.

Key Points

• Explore the untold stories of female war heroes who played crucial roles during the Battle of Gettysburg, from caring for the wounded to engaging in combat.
• Discover the tragic tale of Jennie Wade, the battle’s only civilian casualty, and learn how her senseless death became a symbol of the human suffering in the Civil War.
• Hear the remarkable story of Elizabeth Thorn, the cemetery caretaker who tended to over 90 graves and hundreds of Union and Confederate soldiers with unwavering dedication.
• Understand the far-reaching physical, emotional, economic, environmental, and societal impacts of the battle and the immense effort required to rebuild Gettysburg.
• Experience the resilience and humanity that persisted in adversity through the cherished memories and sweet treats of the local ice cream parlor, Cone Sweet Cone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Unsung War Heroines

Beneath the well-known narratives of the Battle of Gettysburg lie the untold stories of unsung female war heroes who left an indelible mark on the events that unfolded. These women, often relegated to the margins of history, played crucial roles in caring for the wounded, burying the dead, and even engaging in combat.

The walking tour shines a spotlight on their remarkable contributions, bringing to life the tales of Jennie Wade, the battle’s only civilian casualty, and Elizabeth Thorn, the cemetery caretaker who buried over 100 Union soldiers.

Through this immersive experience, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the hidden valor and resilience of the women who shaped the outcome of this pivotal moment in American history.

Jennie Wade’s Fateful Encounter

As the tour progresses, visitors learn about Jennie Wade, the Battle of Gettysburg‘s only civilian casualty, whose fateful encounter with the conflict’s horrors exemplifies the immense toll the war exacted on ordinary citizens.

On July 3, 1863, the 20-year-old was baking bread for Union soldiers when a stray bullet pierced the door of her sister’s home, striking her in the heart and killing her instantly.

Jennie’s tragic demise underscored how the Civil War’s violence spared no one, not even noncombatants like herself. The tour guides recount Jennie’s story with reverence, highlighting how her senseless death became a symbol of the profound human suffering that accompanied the larger struggle for the nation’s future.

Tending to the Cemetery’s Care

Another story the tour highlights is that of Elizabeth Thorn, the cemetery caretaker who faced the daunting task of burying the battle’s countless casualties.

As the wife of the cemetery’s superintendent, Elizabeth took over his duties when he fell ill. With the help of her young children, she dug over 90 graves and tended to the burial of hundreds of Union and Confederate soldiers.

Her selfless efforts to honor the fallen earned her the respect of the local community. Though the physical and emotional toll was immense, Elizabeth’s unwavering dedication ensured the soldiers received a proper burial, preserving their memory and the dignity of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.

Wartime Wounds and Their Lasting Scars

The Battle of Gettysburg left indelible scars across the landscape, both physical and emotional, that would endure long after the fighting had ceased. Bullet holes pockmarked buildings, and the ground was littered with abandoned equipment and human remains. The local cemetery, once a serene refuge, now stood as a somber reminder of the toll the battle had taken.

Lasting Scars	Impact
Physical	Damaged buildings, unmarked graves, abandoned materiel
Emotional	Traumatized survivors, haunted by memories, community torn apart
Economic	Depleted resources, disrupted commerce, recovery efforts strained
Environmental	Destroyed vegetation, polluted waterways, altered terrain
Societal	Divided loyalties, strained relationships, altered daily life

Rebuilding Gettysburg would require immense effort, as the community grappled with the battle’s far-reaching consequences.

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Sweet Treats and Cherished Memories

Amidst the lingering sorrow and destruction left by the Battle of Gettysburg, the community found solace in the simple pleasures of sweet treats, which offered a fleeting respite from the harsh realities of war.

The tour concludes with a visit to Cone Sweet Cone, a local ice cream parlor that has delighted generations of visitors and residents alike. Here, guests can savor the creamy, indulgent flavors that have become synonymous with the town’s enduring spirit.

As they enjoy their frozen treats, they’re encouraged to reflect on the resilience and humanity that persisted even in the darkest of times. These cherished moments serve as a poignant reminder of the healing power of community and the importance of finding joy in the midst of adversity.

Comfortable Attire and Necessary Precautions

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear for the walking tour, as the route covers uneven terrain.

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited during the experience to ensure a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants.

To ensure a seamless and safe tour, participants are asked to note the following:

1. Bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, as it may be required for the tour.
2. Refrain from video recording during the tour, as it can be disruptive to the group and the guide’s narrative.
3. Park in public spaces on side streets and the main street, as parking in the Brickhouse Inn back lot isn’t permitted.

Public Parking and Meeting Logistics

Participants can park in public spaces on side streets and the main street, as parking in the Brickhouse Inn back lot is not permitted. The meeting point for the tour is outside the Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast.

Parking Details	Meeting Location
Public spaces on side streets	Outside Brickhouse Inn B&B
Public spaces on main street	–
Do not park in Brickhouse Inn back lot	–
All taxes and fees included	–
Arrive at meeting point before tour start time	–

The tour guide will be waiting at the designated meeting point to welcome participants and begin the informative journey through Gettysburg’s historic district.

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The walking tour lasts either 1 hour or 1.5 hours, and includes a knowledgeable guide who’ll share the untold stories of female Civil War heroes throughout Gettysburg’s historic district.

The tour highlights include:

• Hearing tales of everyday women who cared for the sick, buried the dead, and fought during the Battle of Gettysburg
• Visiting sites associated with Jennie Wade, the battle’s only civilian casualty, and Elizabeth Thorn, the cemetery caretaker

There is an optional extended tour that explores the scars the battle left behind and ends with ice cream from Cone Sweet Cone.

The tour also includes all taxes and fees, and participants are required to bring a valid ID and wear comfortable shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Photographs are generally not allowed during the tour. The tour guidelines prohibit video recording, and this likely extends to taking photos as well. Visitors should refrain from using cameras or other devices to capture footage during the walking tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly advertised as wheelchair accessible. However, the walking tour through the historic district may present accessibility challenges. Visitors should contact the tour operator to inquire about accommodations for those requiring wheelchair accessibility.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, making it suitable for all ages. Children are welcome to join the tour, though parental supervision is recommended to ensure they have an enjoyable and educational experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are generally not permitted to bring their own snacks or drinks on the walking tour. The tour guidelines state that smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the tour. Light refreshments may be available at the end of the extended tour option.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour’s cancellation and refund policy states that guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No refunds are given for same-day cancellations or no-shows. Requests must be submitted in writing.

Recap

The Gettysburg: The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the untold stories of courageous women who played vital roles during the Battle of Gettysburg.

From Jennie Wade’s tragic sacrifice to Elizabeth Thorn’s tireless efforts, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the immense impact of the war and the resilience that persisted in the face of adversity.

You can check availability for your dates here: