The "Gettysburg: Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour" immerses visitors in the profound impact of the Civil War on Gettysburg’s local residents. Participants explore the historic Jennie Wade House, where they uncover the story of the only civilian casualty during the battle. This 2-hour guided tour combines captivating storytelling, visits to notable landmarks, and insights into the community’s resilience. For history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the human experiences of war, this tour provides a unique perspective on Gettysburg’s past.
This experience made our article of 15 Fantastic Walking Tours In Gettysburg.
Key Points
- This 2-hour guided tour explores the history and impact of the Civil War on the residents of downtown Gettysburg, with a focus on the Jennie Wade House.
- The tour includes entrance to the Jennie Wade House, where visitors can learn about the sole civilian casualty of the Battle of Gettysburg.
- Visitors will gain insight into the battle’s effect on the local community through the perspectives of Gettysburg residents, shared by an expert guide.
- The tour highlights notable landmarks, such as the Lutheran Seminary and Shriver House, and compares the appearance of downtown Gettysburg during the Civil War to its current state.
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking several blocks through the historic downtown area.
Tour Overview
The Gettysburg: Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided exploration of downtown Gettysburg, offering visitors an in-depth look at the town’s history and the impact of the Civil War.
Priced from $30 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible. Guests meet outside the Jennie Wade House and embark on a journey to explore historic buildings, monuments, and the perspective of local residents during the war.
The tour includes entrance to the Jennie Wade House and gratuities, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience for history enthusiasts.
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Highlights of the Tour
Exploring Downtown Gettysburg, the walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s history during the Civil War.
Guests visit the Jennie Wade House, the sole civilian casualty of the conflict. They’ll discover the Battle of Gettysburg from the perspective of local residents and view historic buildings and monuments along Baltimore Street, comparing them to their 1863 appearance.
Led by an expert guide, the tour provides an immersive experience, bringing the past to life through engaging storytelling.
Along the way, participants gain a deeper understanding of how the Civil War shaped this community and its people.
Exploring Downtown Gettysburg
As the walking tour commences, guests embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Gettysburg’s downtown. Along Baltimore Street, the guide points out historic buildings and monuments, drawing comparisons to their 1863 appearances. Visitors learn how the Battle of Gettysburg impacted local residents, gaining a deeper understanding of the conflict’s civilian perspective.
| Historic Landmark | 1863 vs. Today |
|——————|—————–|
| Jennie Wade House | Site of the sole civilian death during the battle |
| Lutheran Seminary | Served as a hospital for Union and Confederate troops |
| Shriver House | Owned by a prosperous family, used by Confederate sharpshooters |
The tour offers a immersive glimpse into Gettysburg’s Civil War-era past, ensuring guests depart with a newfound appreciation for the town’s resilience and courage.
Visiting the Jennie Wade House
As guests make their way to the Jennie Wade House, they learn about the sole civilian casualty of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Jennie Wade, a 20-year-old Confederate sympathizer, was killed by a stray bullet while making bread for Union soldiers. Visitors can explore the house where Jennie lived and died, seeing the bullet hole in the door that ended her life.
The guide shares Jennie’s story and the impact of the battle on local residents. Guests gain a deeper understanding of the human toll and everyday realities of the Civil War through this poignant stop on the Baltimore Street walking tour.
More Great Tours NearbyUnderstanding the Civil War From a Local Perspective
Though the Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, the walking tour highlights how the fighting affected the lives of local residents.
The tour explores downtown Gettysburg, examining historic buildings and monuments that were present during the 1863 conflict. Guests gain insight into how the battle disrupted the daily lives of civilians, such as Jennie Wade, the sole civilian casualty.
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Seeing Historic Buildings and Monuments
Along the walking tour, guests explore the historic buildings and monuments of downtown Gettysburg, comparing their current appearances to how they looked during the Civil War. The tour highlights several significant landmarks, including the Jennie Wade House, where the sole civilian casualty of the battle lived. Visitors can view the buildings’ architectural features and learn about their roles in 1863. To enhance the experience, the guide provides a visual comparison of the sites, then and now, through a helpful table:
| Building/Monument | 1863 Appearance | Current Appearance |
| — | — | — |
| Jennie Wade House | Simple two-story home | Restored historic site |
| Lutheran Theological Seminary | Large academic institution | Educational campus |
| Gettysburg Cyclorama | Not yet constructed | Iconic Civil War painting |
| Soldiers’ National Cemetery | Newly established burial ground | Hallowed ground for fallen soldiers |
Guided Walking Tour Experience
What makes the Gettysburg: Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour a truly immersive experience? The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who bring the Civil War era to life with engaging storytelling.
Guests explore downtown Gettysburg, visiting the Jennie Wade House and viewing historic buildings and monuments along Baltimore Street. The tour includes entrance to the Jennie Wade House and gratuities, ensuring a seamless experience.
With flexible booking and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, the tour caters to the needs of modern travelers. An excellent choice for those seeking an informative and memorable glimpse into Gettysburg’s past.
Preparing for the Tour
To make the most of the Gettysburg: Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour, visitors should come prepared.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are a must, as the tour covers several blocks in downtown Gettysburg. Layering is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Participants should also bring any needed medications, water, and a camera to capture the historic sights. The tour operates rain or shine, so being prepared for potential inclement weather is advised.
With the right preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the rich history and stories shared by the expert guide during this 2-hour walking tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it is wheelchair accessible and explores historic sites and stories related to the Civil War. However, the 2-hour duration could be challenging for some younger participants.
Do We Get to See the Jennie Wade House Interior?
Yes, the tour includes entry to the Jennie Wade House, where visitors can explore the interior of the home where the sole civilian casualty of the Civil War occurred. The tour guide provides insight into the events that took place within the house.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
No, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is 2 hours long, and the overview doesn’t mention any add-on or extension options.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The expert guide will provide guidance on the best photo opportunities along Baltimore Street and at the Jennie Wade House to capture the historic sights and scenery.
Is There a Specific Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no specific dress code for the tour, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing in layers is advised to ensure you’re prepared for any conditions.
The Sum Up
The "Gettysburg: Jennie Wade‘s Baltimore Street Walking Tour" offers a captivating journey through Gettysburg‘s history, providing an intimate glimpse into the town’s experiences during the Civil War. By visiting key sites and learning about Jennie Wade’s personal story, participants gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and human impact of this pivotal moment in American history.
📍 This experience made our list of the 15 best Walking Tours in Gettysburg
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