154th Anniversary Battle of Gettysburg Reenactment
By Andrea DiMartino · Originally published August 2017 · pp. 1–5
(Photos provided by the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee) By Andrea DiMartino GETTYSBURG, Penn.—This year’s 154th Gettysburg anniversary reenactment was held at the old “Gettysburg” site for the movie based on the book Killer Angels by Michael Shaara. The reenactment was on the actual anniversary dates of the pivotal battle at Gettysburg on July 1, 2 and 3, 1863. Over 2,000 reenactors showed up for this event and those who remained through Monday’s afternoon battle were able to sign up at no charge for next year’s 155th National Gettysburg Anniversary Battle Reenactment. There were 33 cannon and over 150 horses on the field for the 2017 event. There were two activity tents with continuous educational pro-
grams from the time the gates opened until days end. Live mortar fire demonstrations, an extensive Living History village and interpretive programs were ongoing for the entire three days. The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee, as in many years past, was honored to host a young history enthusiast from the Make-A-Wish foundation of Idaho. David, a 16 year old, whose fondest wish was to be at the Gettysburg reenactment, was invited into the Federal Artillery Camp for two days with an overnight stay as a Civil War soldier. The artillerymen went way beyond the usual in giving this young man the experience of a lifetime. We will all remember David and his wonderful family. The Gettysburg Anniversary
Committee, along with our community, would like to thank all the visitors and reenactors who participated in the Gettysburg 154th event. It was very enjoyable
Balloons over head in the early morning of July 1st over the Rev. Alan Farley’s tent.
and a wonderful prelude to next years’ national anniversary that will be held on July 5, 6, 7, and 8, 2018. To have time to wrap up the 2017 reenactment, tickets for next years’ national event will go on sale by July 31. Reenactor registration will be open by July 24, 2017. The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee looks forward to welcoming you back to our community as we make those dusty old history books come alive once more. Information for the 155th National Gettysburg Anniversary Battle Reenactment can be found online at www.gettysburgreenactment.com or by calling 717338-9580. David is a 16 Year old boy from Idaho whose fondest wish was realized through the Make A Wish Foundation of Idaho and the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee.
Walk on registration remained open the entire three days. This is Jordan Blosser of the 7th Va., Co. F., 1st ANV.