Haunted Field Hospital Walking Tour in Gettysburg, PA - Harrisburg

Haunted Field Hospital Walking Tour in Gettysburg, PA

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Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–2.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels given the slow-paced walking on mostly flat terrain.

Overview

Explore Gettysburg’s haunted field hospitals on a candlelit walking tour. Visit historic homes tied to Civil War history and uncover ghostly tales as darkness falls.

Details

Step into the shadowed past of Gettysburg with the Haunted Field Hospital Candle Light Walking Tour, guided by Gettysburg Ghost Tours. This unique private experience invites you to explore the historic homes and churches that once served as field hospitals during the Civil War, including visits to the Tillie Pierce House and the Jennie Wade Birth House. As candlelight illuminates the quiet streets, you’ll be transported back to 1863, learning about the medical challenges and personal stories of resilience inside these historic walls. The hauntingly beautiful ambiance adds to the solemn yet captivating atmosphere, making this walking tour unlike any other historical visit. This experience is perfect for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a meaningful evening walk enriched with fascinating tales. You’ll discover how these sites played a critical role in caring for the wounded, while also hearing about eerie ghost stories that have lingered here for generations. Beyond the history and hauntings, the tour offers a rare perspective on Gettysburg’s less-visited landmarks, allowing for an intimate connection with the past under the soft glow of candlelight. Whether you’re visiting Gettysburg for the first time or returning to explore deeper layers of its history, the Haunted Field Hospital tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the sacrifices made during one of America’s defining moments.

Adventure Tips

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The tour involves walking on historic streets and uneven surfaces at night; sturdy footwear helps keep you comfortable.

Bring a Flashlight

Although candles enhance the ambiance, a small flashlight is useful for safety during darker stretches of the walk.

Check Weather Forecast

Tours proceed rain or shine, so dress appropriately and bring rain gear if needed to stay comfortable.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour to allow time for registration and briefing.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Explore the small cemetery behind the Jennie Wade House for quiet reflection.
  • Visit the lesser-known Sachs Covered Bridge nearby for beautiful historic scenery.

Wildlife

  • Eastern Gray Squirrel
  • Various nocturnal bats commonly seen around old buildings

History

Gettysburg was a pivotal Civil War battlefield where many homes and churches were converted into makeshift field hospitals to care for thousands of wounded soldiers.

Conservation

Local tour operators work closely with preservation groups to protect Gettysburg’s historic buildings and minimize impact on the sensitive environment during visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

During candlelit tour start
Early evening twilight
Blue hour just after sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Tillie Pierce House exterior
  • Jennie Wade Birth House doorway
  • Historic Main Street lamplight

What to Photograph

Candlelit architecture
Historic building details
Nighttime street scenes

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Support your feet on historic cobblestones and uneven sidewalks.

Light Jacket or Sweater

Essential

Stay warm during cooler autumn evenings on the tour.

fall specific

Portable Flashlight

Helpful for navigating darker areas while maintaining the candlelight atmosphere.

Rain Poncho or Umbrella

Protect yourself from spring showers and unexpected rain.

spring specific

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