GDG Muster 2008 Tour Schedule
Friday June 6, 2008
1:00 p.m. “Deja Vu, all over again” - 140 Places Every LBG Should Know (South of Town)
Tom Shay and Lew Gage return (following numerous requests) to tour the south end of the battlefield and point out those obscure “140 Places.” There are some corrections and additions in this tour that might interest even those who made the first tour in 2002.
We will meet at the Picnic Area on South Confederate Avenue. Some moderate walking, so be prepared. Tour will last approximately 2 hours with a side trip following for Tipton “enthusiasts.”
Gettysburg Scavenger Hunt presented by Ginny Gage & Mary Davis
This popular event returns this year. Will you be able to come up with all of the items on the list??? Scavenger hunting lists will be distributed on the first tour and at the cocktail hour on Friday night.
5:00 p.m. Friday Evening Cocktail Hour
Announcements, Registration and we will get the chance to hear an update from GNMP Superintendent John Latschar as to the progress made in the general plan over the last year. Plan on a nice social get together as well and the annual “Silent Auction”. Meet at the Holiday Inn on Baltimore Street, near East Cemetery Hill.
For those interested, we will have our traditional Italian dinner at Gina’s Place in Bonneauville after the Registration function. Please be sure to contact Sal Prezioso if you are planning on attending. Located about 4 miles from Gettysburg, just past East Cavalry Field on the Hanover road.
Saturday June 7, 2008
7a.m. Annual GDG Photo on Little Round Top
The "Other" Round Top Presentation by Garry Adeleman and Tim Smith
Little Round Top is one of the most recognizable terrain features associated with the American Civil War. But just to the south and looming 120 feet above is the hill for which Little Round Top was named—Big Round Top. Although rarely visited today, Big Round Top has its own fascinating story to tell. Standing in the path of the Southern Infantry on July 2nd and converted into a Union fortress on July 3rd, the hill played a key role in the fighting. Following the war visitors enjoyed the view from its summit and like many other areas of the field veterans placed monuments along it slopes. Join Licensed Battlefield Guides Timothy H. Smith and Garry Adelman as we explore the "Other" Round Top’s trails, folklore, fortifications, historic photos, unique rock formations, monuments, observation towers long gone, and the truth about the cavalry fight near the "D-Shaped Field.". This walk will include rough terrain and some strenuous activity. Meet along Sykes Avenue in the "saddle" between the Round Tops.
10:00 a.m. Breakfast at the Dobbin House
Please be sure to register for this ahead of time – pay at the door.
11:30 a.m. “They Stood Their Ground”: The 59th New York on Cemetery Ridge
Presented by GDG Member Zack Fry
Recently one of the most unfortunately misinterpreted regiments in the Army of the Potomac, the diminutive 59th New York nonetheless played an active role in the defense of Cemetery Ridge on July 2 and 3. Their story at Gettysburg includes many inspiring yet unsung instances of heroism. This tour will address the engaging personalities as well as the tactical details of the actions south of the Copse of Trees, using many previously untapped accounts and images. Esteemed members are asked to meet at the High Water Mark.
2:00 p.m. The Churches of Gettysburg: "I had no where else to go"
Presented by LBG Joe Mieczkowski
The title is taken from a quote by Abraham Lincoln: I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.
We will visit the historic churches and places of worship in Gettysburg, including those used as refuges, hideouts and hospitals. We will tell the stories of the wounded men and their caretakers and how faith sustained the community.
NOTE: This walking tour is limited to 20 people total. Pre-registration is required. Email Chris Army at c_army@hotmail.com and put Church Tour in the Subject line please. Meet at the Gettysburg Hotel “Town Tour” desk.
2:00 p.m. The Lutheran Theological Seminary with Wayne Motts
Learn the history of the Seminary including Schmucker Hall. THIS TOUR IS CONCURRENT WITH THE CHURCH TOUR. A tour of the Cupola is optional for an additional 100.00 dollars - funds will be directly donated to the Adams County Historical Society and The Seminary Ridge Foundation.
Pre-registration (for the Cupola Tour portion only) is required. Email Chris Army at c_army@hotmail.com and put Cupola Tour in the Subject line please.
6:00 p.m. World Famous GDG Hot Dog Roast
"Red, White and Blue-Gray: The Last Gettysburg Reunion"
Presentation by Alyce Gray-Army
Beginning as early as July 4, 1863 -- Gettysburg came to represent more than just a battlefield to the American population. Its significance was underscored, as it became a Mecca for veterans groups in the wake of the Civil War. After summarizing the gatherings prior to the 75th anniversary, a focus will be placed on the 1938 reunion, which many of the veterans (average age 94) were attended by young men and boys who went on to serve in WWII. Approximately 1800 veterans were at the Reunion, representing every state, Canada and unconfirmed reports of one elderly gentleman that traveled from Finland. Join us at the GAR Hall on Middle St.
Sunday June 8, 2008
8:00 a.m. Services conducted in the National Cemetery with Billy Ray and Andee Wagonseller.
9:30 a.m. "Shatter
The Enemy's Line:" Alexander, Hunt and De Jomini on July 3rd - Presented by
Christina Moon.
A
great deal of planning and response went into the massive and historic artillery
bombardment that occurred prior to Pickett's Charge on July 3rd. We will explore
this artillery bombardment primarily using the principles for the application of
artillery as set forth by Henri De Jomini in his book "The Art of War" and first
hand accounts from the participants. Our discussion will tactically cover both
the Confederate plans for the offense and the Federal response for the defense.
This program will begin at the Virginia monument and end along Cemetery Ridge
near the angle.
1:00 p.m. “The New Visitors Center – you decide”
For the die hard GDGers that are left and are willing, you are invited to meet at the “Saloon” of the new Visitors Center. Here is an opportunity to get together with fellow GDGers and share your thoughts and observations on the new museum. You can dissect the new center 4 ways, over, under, sideways and continuously. A chance for honest discourse and sharing of thoughts for which the GDG is famous. A last chance for fellowship at this year's muster