Trust Pursues 49 Crucial Acres at Gettysburg

Originally published November 2020 · p. 35

Trust Pursues 49 Crucial Acres at Gettysburg The Battle of Gettysburg has been studied time and time again, but each new preservation victory adds context to that process. And, if a new fundraising campaign is successful, 49 additional acres across three properties currently being pursued by the Trust, will soon add new layers. The first tract: Partially situated on the south slope of Big Round Top and along the banks of Plum Run, this property is bordered by preserved land on two sides— anyone standing here during the three days of battle in July 1863, would’ve been encircled by the whirling chaos of warfare. The second tract: A small but crucial parcel on lower Cemetery Hill, in the shadow of Culp’s Hill, this tract includes a historic home owned by James McKnight. He purchased it in 1860, not knowing that the largest battle ever fought in North America would sweep over the property just three years later. Tens of thousands of Union troops marched through the farmland as they fell back to the fortified Cemetery Hill, with some even buried on the property during the first two days of battle. The final parcel: Immediately south of the McKnight House, this tract witnessed many of the same events. With federal matching grants, a landowner donation, and some large gifts already in place, the Trust is seeking $276,700 in private contributions to fund the acquisition—a $5.38-to-$1 match on donations! The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 53,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.