Gettysburg, PA – The Gettysburg Foundation is excited to announce its “Encounters with History” series, a collection of engaging programs scheduled on select dates this spring and summer in Gettysburg. Designed for history buffs, art enthusiasts, community members and visitors, the series offers a variety of events that bring Gettysburg’s rich history to life. Some programs are free and open to the public, while others require reservations.
“Paint Like a President” offers a unique blend of history, art and hands-on creativity focused on President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s legacy as both a statesman and an artist. Eisenhower, a Gettysburg resident, was known to paint as a way to relax. Attendees can enjoy a free 30-minute presentation with a local historian that explores the stories behind the president’s artworks. Following the presentation, ticket holders can participate in a paint night experience inspired by Eisenhower’s paintings, complete with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. This event will take place on June 17 and August 19 at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Reservations are required.
Another highlight is the monthly “Council of War Campfires” where prominent historians and authors, many of whom are also Licensed Battlefield Guides at Gettysburg National Military Park, lead discussions on various aspects of the Battle of Gettysburg and the American Civil War. These campfire gatherings are free and open to the public and no reservations necessary. Upcoming sessions will be held June 20 in the side yard of Children of Gettysburg 1863® at the historic Rupp HouseTM and July 11 at the historic George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital.
The series also includes “Gettysburg Shadows” in a full-day outdoor program presented by Licensed Battlefield Guide Ralph Siegel. This tour challenges traditional views of Gettysburg’s key battles and decisions, inspired by the work of historian Dennis Frye. Participants will explore new perspectives on commanders’ choices and battlefield outcomes. The program will be held June 28 and includes a boxed lunch. Reservations are required.
“The ‘Encounters with History’ series provides a wonderful opportunity for people to connect deeply with Gettysburg’s past through immersive and educational experiences,” said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “We invite everyone to join us in exploring the stories that continue to shape our nation’s history.”
Reservations for the “Paint Like a President” and “Gettysburg Shadows” programs are available online at GettysburgFoundation.org, by phone at 717-339-2150, or via email to [email protected]. Friends of Gettysburg members enjoy special rates.
Gettysburg Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit philanthropic, educational organization operating in partnership with the National Park Service to preserve Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site and educate the public about their significance. The Foundation operates the Museum & Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park, as well as the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital, Children of Gettysburg 1863® and the Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad StationTM. The Foundation offers customized professional leadership development on the Gettysburg battlefield through its Higher Ground Leadership at Gettysburg programming. For information about visiting Gettysburg or how you can become a Friends of Gettysburg member in support of the Gettysburg Foundation’s preservation and education mission in partnership with the National Park Service at Gettysburg, visit GettysburgFoundation.org or call 877-874-2478. Proceeds from tickets and other purchases in the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center and donations to the Gettysburg Foundation benefit Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site.