The Historic Daniel Lady Farm will offer a full slate of immersive Civil War programs in 2026, inviting visitors to experience the Battle of Gettysburg and its human impact through hands-on interpretation, live demonstrations, and storytelling.
The preserved farm, located on the outskirts of Gettysburg, served as Confederate Gen. Edward “Allegheny” Johnson’s headquarters and later as a field hospital during the battle. Organizers say the site provides a uniquely personal window into the war, connecting visitors to the experiences of soldiers, civilians, and medical personnel.
Among the featured programs is “In the Shadow of Battle,” a guided tour of the farmhouse and barn that traces the property’s transformation from a working family farm into a center of wartime activity. Visitors will explore restored rooms, learn about the Lady family, and see where wounded soldiers were treated during the battle.
“Brogans to Bullets” offers a hands-on look at the daily life of Civil War soldiers. Through authentic uniforms, equipment, and demonstrations — including musket firing — participants will learn how soldiers marched, camped, and survived in the field.
The medical realities of the war are the focus of “Battlefields and Bandages,” which examines how Civil War surgeons and nurses worked under extreme conditions. The program highlights how wartime necessity led to major advances in medical care, many of which still influence modern practices.
Artillery takes center stage in “Thunder on the Field,” where visitors can learn how cannons were positioned, loaded, and fired. Demonstrations, when weather permits, allow guests to experience the sound and force of Civil War artillery firsthand.
“Conflict Communication” explores the role of the U.S. Signal Corps, showcasing how soldiers used flags, telegraphs, and other early technologies to transmit information across the battlefield — innovations that helped shape modern communication systems.
Additional programs include “Campfire Chronicles,” an evening storytelling experience based on letters and firsthand accounts from the war, and “Playtime in the Past,” which introduces children to 19th-century games and daily life through interactive activities.
Organizers say the programs are designed for a wide range of audiences, from history enthusiasts to families, and emphasize both education and engagement.
“The Daniel Lady Farm is more than a historic site — it’s a place where visitors can connect directly with the human stories of Gettysburg,” said coordinator Shaun Phiel . “These programs bring history to life in ways that are meaningful, memorable, and accessible.”
Program schedules, group opportunities, and additional details are expected to be announced ahead of the 2026 season. Please click here for more information.