Gettysburg: Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour

Walking through Gettysburg’s streets on the Jennie Wade’s Baltimore Street Walking Tour offers a focused, engaging glimpse into the town’s Civil War past. For $30 per person, this 2-hour guided experience takes visitors on a walk through downtown Gettysburg, highlighting historic buildings, monuments, and the story of Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the Civil War. The tour is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in local perspectives and everyday life amid the battle.

Participants meet outside Jennie Wade House, starting their journey with a friendly, knowledgeable guide. The tour emphasizes street scenes from 1863 and the impact of the war on Gettysburg residents. With a passionate guide leading, visitors gain insight into civilian experiences and the turbulence of wartime Gettysburg, making this tour a thoughtful and accessible option for those seeking historical context beyond just battlefield history.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated at 4.9 out of 5 from 29 reviews.
• Focuses on local civilian stories and the life of Jennie Wade.
• Duration is 2 hours, with a meeting point outside Jennie Wade House.
• Includes a guided walk along Baltimore Street through historic Gettysburg.
• Not included: entry into Jennie Wade House.
• Guide expertise praised for knowledge and engaging storytelling.

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Exploring Downtown Gettysburg on Baltimore Street

This walking tour is centered around Downtown Gettysburg, where visitors can see historic buildings and monuments representative of the town as it appeared in 1863. The guide helps you compare existing structures to their original wartime appearances, providing visual context and historic details. The walk takes advantage of Baltimore Street’s historic ambiance, spotlighting local architecture and civilian sites.

The route emphasizes how Gettysburg residents endured war-related trauma, with stories about life under siege and the town’s role during the Battle of Gettysburg. The guide’s explanations make the civilian experience more vivid, helping visitors understand the human side of history beyond the battlefield.

Visiting Jennie Wade’s House and Her Story

The highlight of the tour is a stop at Jennie Wade’s former home, where visitors learn about her personal history and legacy. As the only civilian casualty during the Civil War, Jennie Wade’s story resonates deeply. The guide shares details about her life as a local woman, her unexpected death, and how her story continues to symbolize Gettysburg’s civilian sacrifices.

While entrance into Jennie Wade House is not included, visitors are encouraged to view the house from outside. The guide provides context and storytelling that bring Jennie Wade’s life and death into focus, making her story a powerful centerpiece of the tour.

The Expertise and Personality of the Guide

The tour is led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide whose passion and storytelling ability receive high praise. Multiple reviews highlight Ken Rich as an excellent guide who answers questions thoroughly and keeps the group engaged. His deep understanding of Gettysburg’s local history and resident stories enrich the experience.

Visitors appreciate the informal, personable style that makes history feel relatable and accessible. The guide’s ability to share stories with warmth and expertise ensures that each visitor leaves with a deeper appreciation for civilian lives during the Civil War.

Practical Information: Meeting Point, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour departs outside Jennie Wade House, a central and recognizable location in Downtown Gettysburg. It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive introduction to the town’s civilian history.

This tour operates rain or shine, so visitors should dress accordingly with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs, which adds to its practical appeal.

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Cost and Value for Money

At $30 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering its high ratings and expert guides. The guided walking experience provides insightful storytelling and behind-the-scenes details that are not available from self-guided tours. While entry into Jennie Wade House is not included, the outside view and narrative still offer a meaningful glimpse into her life.

Many reviewers note the tour is well worth the money, praising the knowledgeable guide and engaging stories. It’s a cost-effective way to deepen understanding of Gettysburg’s civilian side during the Civil War.

The Experience’s Pace and Suitable Audience

The 2-hour pace is well-balanced, allowing enough time to see key sights and listen to detailed stories without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for history buffs, families, and casual visitors looking for a focused, educational stroll through Gettysburg’s streets.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor walking. The tour’s accessible format and timing in the afternoon make it easy to fit into a broader Gettysburg itinerary.

The Unique Focus on Civilian Life during the Civil War

Unlike battlefield-focused tours, this experience zeroes in on the everyday lives of Gettysburg residents. It sheds light on local stories and personal tragedies, especially through the story of Jennie Wade. This perspective adds depth and humanity to your understanding of the war, making it more relatable and meaningful.

Visitors leave with a sense of how war affected ordinary civilians and their homes, making this tour a heartfelt exploration of Gettysburg’s history.

The Sum Up: A Focused, Engaging Civil War Experience

This tour offers a cost-effective, engaging look at Gettysburg’s civilian side, led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide. The focus on Jennie Wade, Baltimore Street’s historic architecture, and local stories makes it a valuable addition to any visit. The 2-hour duration and easy accessibility suit a wide range of travelers, especially those interested in personal stories of the Civil War.

While not including entry into Jennie Wade House, the outside view and contextual narration compensate effectively. Visitors who appreciate local history and storytelling will find this tour both informative and meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the price?
It costs $30 per person.

Where does the tour start?
Participants meet outside Jennie Wade House in Downtown Gettysburg.

Is entrance to Jennie Wade House included?
No, entrance into Jennie Wade House is not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor walking.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Who leads the tour?
A friendly, expert guide, often praised for knowledge and storytelling skills.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for children?
While not specified, the 2-hour outdoor walk and focus on civilian stories make it suitable for families, especially those interested in history.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby