Explore Gettysburg’s Soldiers Orphans Homestead for $15

The Historic Soldiers Orphans Homestead Tour in Gettysburg offers a compelling look into a site with a dual past: as a field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg and later as a home for orphaned children. Priced at $15 per person and lasting approximately 45 minutes, this tour is accessible and concise, making it ideal for those interested in the Civil War’s local history and the community’s post-war recovery efforts. The tour departs from the Gettysburg Tour Center, which provides convenient amenities like restrooms and bus parking. It features a mobile ticket for easy access and can accommodate groups of up to 20 travelers, with larger parties encouraged to inquire about reservations.

While the tour’s duration is short, it packs in rich stories about Captain John Myers, a War of 1812 veteran, and Sgt. Amos Humiston, whose tragic story helped spark the orphanage’s founding. Visitors should be prepared for a walkthrough of the historic building and grounds, with a focus on the site’s significance during the Civil War and its subsequent role as a safe haven for children. This tour suits history enthusiasts seeking a focused, engaging experience without the need for extensive time commitment or complicated logistics.

Key Points

Affordable and Brief: The $15 price for a 45-minute guided exploration makes this tour accessible.
Historical Focus: Learn about the Civil War battlefield hospital and the orphanage’s origins linked to figures like Captain John Myers and Sgt. Amos Humiston.
Location and Accessibility: The tour starts at the Gettysburg Tour Center with restrooms and bus parking available.
Group-Friendly: Can be booked for larger parties with prior reservation inquiries.
In-Depth Building Tour: Walk through the homestead property, exploring its role in history and the lives of the children who lived there from 1866 to 1877.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations noted.

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The Historic Soldiers Orphans Homestead on Cemetery Hill

This tour centers on the 1836 Soldiers Orphans Homestead, located on Cemetery Hill, a strategic part of Gettysburg during the battle. Visitors learn how the building served as a field hospital during the fierce fighting, with stories highlighting the wounded and dying soldiers treated there. The location’s prominence on Cemetery Hill offers insight into its importance during the battle, and guides are well-versed in explaining its strategic significance in conjunction with the broader battle narrative.

The Legacy of Captain John Myers and Sgt. Amos Humiston

A key part of the tour focuses on Captain John Myers, a veteran of the War of 1812 who lived in the home during the battle. His story, alongside that of Sgt. Amos Humiston, whose tragic death and subsequent photographic recognition inspired the hotel of the orphanage, provides personal context to the site’s history. The tragic tale of Sgt. Humiston emphasizes the human cost of war and the community’s response in the form of the orphanage, which opened in October 1866 thanks to local benefactors.

Walking Through the Homestead and Grounds

The tour allows visitors to walk through portions of the historic building, gaining a tangible connection to the past. You’ll see the structure’s architecture and envision how it functioned both as a hospital during the battle and later as a home for orphaned children. The period from 1866 to 1877 saw the children face many hardships, especially when new management altered their circumstances, a story the guides illuminate with clarity.

Logistics and Meeting Point Details

This guided tour begins at the Gettysburg Tour Center located at 778 Baltimore St. The center offers restrooms and bus parking, easing logistics for visitors. The tour departs promptly and ends back at the same location, making it easy for participants to plan their day. The tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personal experience, and larger groups should inquire about reservations beforehand.

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What to Expect During the 45-Minute Tour

The guided walk covers the historic building and its grounds, with storytelling focusing on the site’s Civil War role and its later function as an orphanage. The guides explain how the location’s strategic placement on Cemetery Hill made it central to the battle’s chaos and how it became a symbol of the community’s resilience afterward. Expect a focused, informative, and respectful presentation, suitable for those interested in both military history and social history of post-war America.

The Stories of Children and Community Resilience

From 1866 to 1877, the homestead was more than just a building; it was a symbol of hope and recovery. The story of the children who lived there, especially during a time of social upheaval, highlights how the community responded to war’s aftermath. The changing management brought challenges, but the story ultimately underscores the legacy of compassion rooted in this site.

Practical Information and Accessibility

Since the tour is short and easy to navigate, it’s suitable for most visitors with basic mobility. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, and service animals are allowed, making the experience accessible to more visitors. The weather-dependent nature means travelers should check the forecast, as poor weather may result in rescheduling or a full refund.

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice for History Buffs

This 45-minute tour offers a compact yet impactful look at Gettysburg’s history, especially for those interested in Civil War medical practices and orphanage stories. The personal stories of Captain Myers and Sgt. Humiston add emotional depth, making the site’s history accessible and memorable. The affordable price and convenient location make it a worthwhile addition to any Gettysburg visit, especially for those with limited time.

Final Thoughts on the Soldiers Orphans Homestead Tour

The Historic Soldiers Orphans Homestead Tour shines in its ability to connect visitors with the past through focused storytelling and a walk-through of a meaningful site. It balances battlefield history with social history, illustrating how a community responded to the horrors of war by creating a safe haven for children. The 45-minute duration makes it manageable for a busy itinerary, and the $15 price point offers good value for such an intimate experience.

This tour works best for history enthusiasts wanting a personalized, educational experience without the need for extensive walking or long hours. Its group-friendly nature and accessible location make it suitable for families, school groups, and solo travelers alike who are interested in the stories behind Gettysburg’s landscape and community.

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Historic Soldiers Orphans Homestead Tour in Gettysburg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour’s brevity and accessible location make it suitable for most ages, especially those interested in Civil War history and community stories.

Can I join the tour with a large group?
Yes, larger groups can inquire about reservations, but the tour is designed for a maximum of 20 travelers for a personal experience.

What should I wear or bring for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and checking the weather forecast helps, as the tour involves walking outdoors.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is designed to be manageable within its short duration, but specific accessibility accommodations should be confirmed with the tour provider.