The Historic Homes of Gettysburg
For a history enthusiast, there are few things better than being able to walk inside an actual structure that has been inhabited for over a hundred years. In Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the famous battle town, houses that have stood the test of time are very common. Gettysburg is full of old homes, churches, and historic structures, and many old farms dot the countryside. There is something romantic about the quaint stone and brick construction styles, bringing to mind a simpler day.
In Gettysburg, a house’s age is boldly proclaimed by a small bronze plaque that states “Civil War Building.” Driving into town, the traveler will see countless plaques that attest to the city’s age. The historic houses of Gettysburg come in many different sizes, from the tiny to the huge. Some of the best areas to find old homes are Baltimore Street, Chambersburg Street, and York Street. Some homes can be toured, others can be visited only as bed-and-breakfasts, and still others are to be admired from a distance.
A small house with a big history
The tiny brick structure on Steinwehr Avenue, now known as the Olde Tyme Photos studio, was known during the Battle of Gettysburg as the George George home. Yes, that was the man’s real name. Probably built during the late 1700s or early 1800s, some people believe it was connected to the larger Dobbin House located further down the street. If it seems like there’s no excuse to find the studio and see the place where Union General Reynolds was brought after his death, have a Civil War photo taken! These people do a great job with authentic portraits. After the photo’s done, feel free to drop a few questions about the building. It certainly is one of Gettysburg’s most humble abodes.
Lots of colonial charm
Gettysburg is not a huge place, despite the myriad of streets and avenues; many historical sites are not as far from each other as they seem. The Dobbin House, so named after a minister named Alexander Dobbin, was built in 1776 and is also located on Steinwehr Avenue. It is a magnificent two-story stone home that now doubles as a tavern and restaurant. Anyone desiring to eat like a king (or queen!) can try one of the dining rooms or the ballroom; those who love quick but delicious fare might choose to stop by the Springhouse Tavern. There is rumored to be a passageway in the Dobbin House that was once used as part of the Underground Railroad.
A quaint structure
Many homes of interest are located on Baltimore Street, one of the main thoroughfares of Gettysburg. Some, like the Pierce House, are not yet open to the public but should be in the near future. This unassuming two-story home was owned by James Pierce, father of Tillie Pierce who wrote about what she witnessed during the 1863 battle. If all goes according to plan, the Pierce House should be functioning as a bed and breakfast by the end of 2006. Gettysburg is full of old homes that have not yet been renovated to reach their full potential; it is possible that many of these houses have not yet been given the “Civil War Building” plaques that would proclaim them as one of Gettysburg’s hidden treasures.
Take a fantastic tour
Next to the Pierce House is a beautiful home constructed in 1860, one of my personal Gettysburg favorites. This handsome three-story building was the residence of soldier George Schriver and his wife and two little girls during the battle, although George was away at war. The red-brick Schriver House has been completely restored to look as it did in the 19th century, so if you’re walking down Baltimore Street and decide to stop by, be prepared to experience the “travel back in time” syndrome. The guided tour is very informative, right down to the period clothing of the tour guide. A tour of the lower and upper levels is offered, as well as the attic, where it has been proven that Confederate sharpshooters not only lodged but also died. This is one of the best Gettysburg tours available.
Jennie Wade’s last stand
Further up along Baltimore Street, the historic home enthusiast will come upon the Jennie Wade House, one of Gettysburg’s most legendary houses. During the third day of the battle, July 3rd, 1863, young Jennie Wade was staying at this double house; the McClellan half actually belonged to her sister and brother-in-law, Georgia and John. A sharpshooter with deadly aim took Jennie’s life, and those walking over to the side of the house will see the bulletholes. A tour will take you through this beautifully furnished home, through the kitchen, parlor, upstairs bedrooms, parlor on the opposite side of the house, and the basement. For history explorers who believe in ghostly activity, this home has been the subject of a few haunted tales and is a stop-off point for some of the paranormal tours that Gettysburg offers.
Stand where Lincoln stood
Gettysburg may not be a huge modern city, but traffic is a serious problem at some places. This is definitely a factor to consider while touring the many houses in the area. The David Wills House is located in the “dreaded” Lincoln Square, known in the 1800s as the “Diamond.” Many call it dreaded because of the traffic that seems to gravitate around this area. President Lincoln was a guest in this home in November 1863, and although the Lincoln Room Museum is currently closed (as of this writing in July 2006), it will be reopened in the future. This impressive Victorian structure was built in the early 1800s. Remember that most of Gettysburg’s homes can be visited by foot; depending on where your starting point is, it’s a good idea to walk to as many homes as possible and not have to worry about traffic and parking.
A lovely 18th century home
York Street is home to the Hoke-Codori House, now a bed and breakfast known as Brafferton Inn. This is definitely one of the most beautiful houses of Gettysburg and possibly the oldest. The exterior is stone, creating a colonial look. The home was built in the 1700s, owned first by Michael Hoke, and later occupied by Nicholas Codori who also owned the famous Codori Barn on the site of Pickett’s Charge. Brafferton Inn’s beautiful dining room is just the icing on the cake; visitors checking into a room discover that each suite has been restored to its 19th century appearance. It was used for religious services during the battle.
The most famous Civil War headquarters
Gettysburg’s rural area boasts many historic homes and barns. One of the most famous sites is Lee’s Headquarters, properly known as the Thompson House. An elderly widow and some family members lived here in 1863; this stone structure is both quaint and elegant, filled to the brim with Civil War history. A short tour includes a walk through the old home and a few museum showcases. Notice the white dormer windows spreading out from each side of the roof; these are more modern additions and did not exist in 1863, but they are the only noticeable renovations. Those planning to stay at the adjoining Quality Inn from spring to late fall can make use of the free admission to Lee’s Headquarters.
A legendary barn
The McPherson Farm is probably the most famous farm in Gettysburg. The house no longer stands, but the white-and-brown stone barn is one of the battlefield’s most recognized icons. Originally built in the late 1700s, the farm underwent a few renovations until the barn evolved to its modern form. During the first day’s fighting, McPherson’s Ridge was a main battle site. Enemy soldiers fought among the McPherson buildings as chaos ensued.
Where Meade rested his head
The Leister Farm is another Gettysburg favorite. This was Union General George Meade’s headquarters during the battle. The tiny white farmhouse housed a great deal of people, considering its size. The lovely white fence adds to the 19th century ambiance. While traveling Taneytown Road, take notice of the huge sign that explains the home’s significance during the battle. Those lucky enough to find some battle-era photos of the Leister farmhouse can see that it narrowly escaped destruction many times. Gettysburg is a beautiful town that has kept much of its 1863 appearance, and those of us who love history are eternally grateful that these old homes have been lovingly upkept for future generations of Gettysburg visitors to enjoy.
