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Gettysburg And Our Heroes

Did you know that the future of the United States once depended on a box of cigars?

Even previous to the eventual failure of the first attempted invasion of the U.S. by Confederate forces in the course of the American Civil War, the Maryland Campaign, General Robert E. Lee planned for a second attempt. In September of 1862, General Lee drew up Special Order 191, detailing the campaign for an invasion of  Pennsylvania. Copies were distributed to Lee’s subordinates and one copy was placed in an envelope along with three cigars. The Confederate courier trusted to transport the package misplaced it during his journey, and it was subsequently found by a corporal of the 27th Indiana Volunteers.

When General Lee’s soldiers rode into Gettysburg in July of 1863, Union military were set for them.  Although the Battle of Gettysburg was not thought decisive at the time, in hind site it was a turning point in American history.  Afterwards, the Confederacy was forced to fight a defensive war, in which it was ultimately defeated two blood soaked years later.

A location to honor the warriors without glorifying the war itself, Gettysburg is one of the premier destinations for Civil War history experts, featuring historic re-enactments, monuments and graveyards for folks on both sides who died for the causes in which they believed, and celebrations of regional culture that have been part of this territory of the Quaker State since it was first settled in the 1770s. One of the prevalent cabin rentals that has been in business since that time is the Dobbin House Tavern.  You can have a meal in their restaurant while experiencing life during the mid-19th Century including authentic period dishes and recipes.

Gettysburg also has its share of romantic getaways as well as historic hotels. The Gettysburg Hotel has been in business steadily since 1797 and is within walking distance of the place of the battle.

As you should suppose, Gettysburg has its fair share of ghosts and a plethora of haunted houses including at least one B and B. Ghost tours are one of the most prevalent activities among tourists. And although rail service to Gettysburg ceased in 1942, the area railroad station continues to function as a rail museum.  Train buffs won’t want to miss it.

Civil War history is not all that Gettysburg has to submit, however, it is also home to the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the cattle ranch where President Dwight D. Eisenhower went to elude the considerable pressures of Cold War politics for the duration of his term of office.

The county in which Gettysburg is located is also right next door to Pennsylvania’s famed Amish Country, home to a culture and society that has fruitfully resisted transformation for hundreds of years.  These friendly individuals embrace visits from the “English”, as they dub the rest of us, so be sure to drop over and say hello. By the way, if an Amish says “You look plain,” take it as a compliment as it is high praise.

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