The Adams County Historical Society (ACHS) officially opened the doors of its new history center and museum, “Gettysburg Beyond the Battle,” on Saturday, April 15th.
Over one thousand visitors enjoyed Gettysburg’s newest museum as well as a full weekend of programming including book signings, children’s activities, and a special panel discussion. Guest speakers during opening weekend included William A. Frassanito, Jeff Shaara, Susan Eisenhower, and Garry Adelman.
Located less than a mile north of the heart of Gettysburg, Beyond the Battle Museum offers a broad historical perspective focused on the civilian experience, beginning in prehistoric times and working its way to the recent past through 12 chronological galleries. The museum features interactive exhibits ranging from dinosaur footprints to a recreated colonial tavern. Additionally, the museum includes three rotating exhibits and a special exhibit gallery featuring the collection of renowned historian William A. Frassanito.
The museum’s premier experience, Caught in the Crossfire, proved to be its most popular exhibit during opening weekend. Caught in the Crossfire is an immersive experience that uses cutting-edge technology to place visitors inside a reconstructed farmhouse during the Battle of Gettysburg. Visitors see, hear, and feel what it was like for one Gettysburg family to be overrun by invading forces and trapped behind enemy lines.
“We’re thrilled to officially open the doors of our new history center and museum to the public,” said ACHS Executive Director Andrew Dalton. “From the Native American groups that first inhabited the area to the Civil War and beyond, we’re excited to share the stories of the people and events that have made Gettysburg and Adams County what they are today.”
Grand Opening Weekend was made possible by Battlefield Harley Davidson, Dobbin House Tavern, Hollabaugh Bros, Inc., The Union Hotel, and Amblebrook Gettysburg.
Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum is located at 625 Biglerville Rd. in Gettysburg. The museum is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays through Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.gettysburgbeyondthebattle.org.
About the Adams County Historical Society: Located in historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the Adams County Historical Society (ACHS) preserves over three centuries of remarkable history. With over one million historic items in its care, ACHS inspires people of all ages to discover the fascinating story of one of America’s most famous communities.
Featured image Caption: The Adams County Historical Society celebrated the opening of its new history center and museum, Gettysburg Beyond the Battle, with a ribbon cutting on Friday, April 14. Elsie Darrah Morey, former ACHS board trustee and longtime supporter of the organization, cut the ribbon. She was joined by ACHS staff, board members, local elected oicials, and ACHS supporters.
