Preserving Gettysburg: Saving Land Featured in the Movie ‘Gettysburg’

The American Battlefield Trust is working to preserve a 15-acre tract of land at Gettysburg, where much of the action from the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg was filmed. The Trust aims to protect these battlefields for future generations, ensuring their historical significance remains accessible.

The land in question is located near the historic Little Round Top, a key strategic point during the battle. It was here that Union soldiers, under the command of Brigadier General Joshua Chamberlain, repelled a Confederate attack, earning a decisive victory for the North. The land features a significant portion of the original battlefield, including a stone wall that served as a defensive line for the Union forces.

The filming of the movie ‘Gettysburg’ in 1993 brought renewed attention to the importance of preserving these battlefields. The film’s director, Ronald Maxwell, chose to shoot many of the battle scenes on the actual battlefield, capturing the historical landscape and creating a powerful and immersive experience for viewers.

The American Battlefield Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving America’s battlefields, recognizes the importance of protecting these sites. The Trust has been working diligently to acquire land at Gettysburg and other battlefields across the country, ensuring that these historical treasures are preserved for future generations.

The Trust’s efforts to preserve the 15-acre tract at Gettysburg are particularly significant, as it represents a piece of history that was immortalized in film. The Trust’s goal is to ensure that the land remains accessible to visitors, allowing them to experience the history of the Battle of Gettysburg firsthand.

The Trust is appealing to the public for support in their efforts to preserve this important piece of American history. Donations can be made through the Trust’s website or through other fundraising initiatives.

The Importance of Preserving Battlefields

The preservation of battlefields is essential for several reasons:

• Historical Significance: Battlefields are tangible reminders of pivotal events in our nation’s history, providing valuable insights into the past.
• Educational Value: Battlefields offer unique opportunities for learning about military history, strategy, and the human cost of war.
• Tourism and Economic Impact: Preserved battlefields attract tourists, contributing to local economies and promoting historical awareness.

The American Battlefield Trust’s work to preserve Gettysburg and other battlefields is vital in ensuring that these important sites remain available for future generations. By supporting the Trust’s efforts, we can help protect our nation’s history and ensure that the stories of those who fought and died on these battlefields are never forgotten.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in supporting the American Battlefield Trust’s efforts to preserve Gettysburg and other battlefields, there are several ways to get involved:

• Donate: Financial contributions are essential to the Trust’s mission.
• Volunteer: Volunteer your time at battlefield preservation events or outreach programs.
• Advocate: Spread the word about the importance of battlefield preservation.
• Visit: Experience the history of battlefields firsthand by visiting them.

Together, we can ensure that these important sites remain preserved for generations to come.