Gettysburg: The Wonder Womens Hidden Valor Walking Tour

The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour in Gettysburg offers a unique opportunity to uncover the untold stories of the Civil War. This 1.7-mile journey through the historic district sheds light on the courageous women who played vital roles during the battle, from civilians like Jennie Wade to those who disguised themselves as soldiers. Beyond the battlegrounds, the tour also explores Gettysburg’s haunted history, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the wonder women who shaped this pivotal moment in American history.

Key Points

• The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour in Gettysburg highlights the courageous stories of women who played vital roles during and after the Battle of Gettysburg.
• The tour covers 1.7 miles of Gettysburg’s historic downtown and showcases Jennie Wade’s kitchen door, which bears a poignant bullet hole from the battle.
• The tour explores the haunted activity in the district, including ghostly apparitions, providing a deeper appreciation for the human toll of the Civil War.
• The tour features the stories of women like Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the battle, and Mary McAllister, who fought disguised as a man on the front lines.
• The tour sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of women, such as Salome Myers, a cemetery caretaker who dug 105 graves while six months pregnant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Gettysburg’s Unsung Heroines

While the Battle of Gettysburg is renowned for its male military heroes, many unsung women played vital roles during and after the conflict.

A cemetery caretaker, six months pregnant, dug 105 graves. Others disguised themselves as men to fight on the front lines.

Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the battle, had a 160-year-old bullet hole in her kitchen door.

These women’s stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience have long been overshadowed.

The "Gettysburg: The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour" shines a light on Gettysburg’s unsung heroines, providing a unique perspective on this historic battle.

Women’s Crucial Roles in the Battle

Courage and resilience defined the women’s vital contributions during the Battle of Gettysburg.

Women like Jennie Wade bravely provided supplies and aid to soldiers, even losing her life in the process.

Jennie Wade bravely provided supplies and aid to soldiers, even losing her life in the process.

Others, such as Mary McAllister, disguised themselves as men to fight on the front lines.

Cemetery caretaker Salome Myers dug 105 graves while six months pregnant, honoring the fallen.

These unsung heroines risked everything to support the Union cause.

Their stories of valor and selflessness illuminate the pivotal yet often overlooked role of women during the war’s bloodiest battle.

Jennie Wade: Gettysburg’s Martyred Civilian

Jennie Wade was a 20-year-old civilian living in Gettysburg when the Battle of Gettysburg erupted in July 1863.

During the battle, a stray bullet struck her kitchen door, killing her instantly. Jennie became the only Gettysburg resident to die as a direct result of the fighting.

Today, visitors can see the 160-year-old bullet hole in the door, which remains a poignant reminder of the battle’s devastating impact on civilians.

Jennie’s tragic story underscores the human toll of the Civil War and the bravery of those who endured it, even as noncombatants.

Her legacy continues to resonate with those who learn about her ultimate sacrifice.

The Caretaker Who Dug Graves While Pregnant

Beyond the tragic story of Jennie Wade, Gettysburg’s Civil War history also shines a light on the remarkable contributions of the women who supported the war effort. One such woman was the cemetery caretaker who, while six months pregnant, dug 105 graves during the battle. Consider the dedication and physical endurance this task required during such a harrowing time. The tour explores the hidden valor of women like her, uncovering the untold stories that have long been overshadowed by the battle’s famous male figures.

| Role | Action | Significance | Impact |

| — | — | — | — |

| Cemetery Caretaker | Dug 105 graves | Physically demanding, demonstrated dedication | Ensured proper burial of fallen soldiers |

| Six Months Pregnant | Persisted through physical limitations | Extraordinary endurance and commitment | Contributed to war effort despite personal challenges |

| Untold Story | Overlooked in historical accounts | Sheds light on women’s critical roles | Highlights unsung heroes of the Civil War |

More Great Tours Nearby

Female Soldiers Disguised as Men

What drove some women to disguise themselves as men and join the ranks of Union and Confederate armies during the Civil War? The desire for glory, a chance to fight, or a need to support their families by earning a soldier’s pay.

Estimates vary, but as many as 400 women may have fought disguised as men. These "soldier girls" served bravely, in battles from Gettysburg to Antietam.

Many were discovered, but not all were dismissed. Some, like 19-year-old Jennie Hodgers, fought for three years under the name Albert Cashier before her secret was finally revealed.

Haunting Legacies of the Civil War

Though much of the Battle of Gettysburg’s history is well-documented, the battlefield and surrounding town continue to captivate visitors with their haunting legacies.

The tour investigates paranormal activity, including:

1. Unexplained shadows and whispers in historic buildings.

2. Ghostly apparitions of Union and Confederate soldiers.

3. Unexplained footsteps and doors slamming shut on their own.

4. Poltergeist-like disturbances, such as objects moving on their own.

Tourists can explore these chilling phenomena and uncover the hidden tales of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle on the Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour.

Exploring Gettysburg’s Historic District

Where does the Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour take visitors in Gettysburg’s historic district?

The tour explores 1.7 miles of Gettysburg’s historic downtown, highlighting the stories of courageous women during and after the Civil War’s bloodiest battle.

The tour explores 1.7 miles of Gettysburg’s historic downtown, highlighting the stories of courageous women during and after the Civil War’s bloodiest battle.

Visitors will hear about a cemetery caretaker who dug 105 graves while six months pregnant, and women who disguised themselves as men to fight in the battle.

The tour also investigates haunted activity in the district and showcases the 160-year-old bullet hole in Jennie Wade’s kitchen door, providing a poignant connection to Gettysburg’s past.

Appreciating the Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor

The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour provides visitors with a profound appreciation for the courage and resilience of Gettysburg’s women during and after the Civil War’s bloodiest battle.

The tour highlights:

1. Untold stories of heroic women, such as a cemetery caretaker who dug 105 graves while six months pregnant.

2. Women who disguised themselves as men to fight in the battle.

3. Haunted activity in Gettysburg’s historic district.

4. The 160-year-old bullet hole in Jennie Wade’s kitchen door, a poignant reminder of the toll of war.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Camera on the Tour?

Video recording is not allowed on the tour, but bringing a camera to take photos is permitted. Participants are advised to avoid disrupting the tour experience for others and follow any instructions from the guide regarding photography.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as it focuses on the stories of women during the Civil War’s bloodiest battle. It’s recommended for older kids and adults who are interested in this historical topic.

How Many Miles Do We Cover During the Tour?

The tour covers approximately 1.7 miles of Gettysburg’s historic district, allowing participants to explore women’s roles and experiences during and after the Civil War’s bloodiest battle.

Are There Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

The tour route does not include any restroom facilities. Participants are advised to use the restrooms before the tour begins. Some nearby public restrooms may be available, but they are not part of the tour itself.

What Is the Policy for Service Animals?

The tour accommodates service animals. Guests with service animals are welcome to participate in the walking tour. Visitors should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure the necessary arrangements are made.

The Sum Up

The Wonder Women’s Hidden Valor Walking Tour in Gettysburg offers a profound exploration of the courageous yet overlooked stories of women during the Civil War. Participants learn about the pivotal roles they played, from civilian casualties to female soldiers in disguise, and encounter the haunting legacies that linger in Gettysburg’s historic district. This tour provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the hidden valor of these unsung heroines.

You can check availability for your dates here: