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Civil War Trails

Walk in the footsteps of the soldiers and citizens who forged a stronger nation. The American Civil War was a defining event in our nation's history, a tragic struggle of brother against brother that threatened to dissolve a democratic nation. Pennsylvania's fields, forests, and towns stood witness to some of its most pivotal battles.

Now you can discover the Civil War where it happened through Pennsylvania Civil War Trails. From battlefields and museums to Story Stops and living history interpreters, this enlightening experience is not merely a deeper look at Lincoln, Lee, and Meade, but a journey to the margins. Here the silent stories are told, the faceless brought to life, the places in between explored. Here the small towns and families who endured our most personal war are the heroes.

Civil War Trails Passport

The six counties of Dutch Country Roads become your Civil War Trails theme park complete with historic landmarks, living history experiences, forty story stops along the way and over 24 unique attractions to visit. Begin your Civil War Trails roadtrip by downloading the Civil War Passport, Brochure and Map. Look for the kepi to guide you along the way. It’s more than a roadtrip, it’s a journey that connects you to the Civil War in a whole new way. Begin your trip by downloading your Civil War Trails Passport.  The more you see the better the prizes you’ll earn along the way.

passport 

Civil War Trails Brochure & Map

Take one of our roadtrips to fully experience Pennsylvania Civil War Trails. With the scenic Dutch Country Roads as a natural backdrop, explore the charm and hospitality of our historic towns and learn about the people, places, and events that shaped the course of American history. These roadtrips feature the most exciting must-see attractions and brings the Pennsylvania Civil War story to life. We've created two wonderful and memorable journeys for you: 

Harrisburg Roadtrip

Road to Harrisburg

Follow the path where the Union defended Pennsylvania against approaching enemy soldiers. GO

Gettysburg Roadtrip

Road to Gettysburg

Visit the towns and historic places that retell the story of the cost and sacrifice of our Commonwealth for the common good. GO

 

Explore

Learn more about Pennsylvania's Civil War history at PACivilWarTrails.com.

  • Download the Civil War Trails for Google Earth.
  • View ultra-high resolution panoramic photos of battlefields, monuments, and cemeteries.
  • Read stories about the war's impact on men, women, and children.

 

Experience

Relive the Civil War through Live and Learn Weekends and PA Past Players.

  • Discovery Weekends: Immerse yourself in Pennsylvania's Civil War heritage through special events, living history presentations, reenactments, and guided tours. Check back to view some of the Live and Learn Weekends.
  • PA Past Players: Meet guests from the past. The PA Past Players brings to life the real people who lived through the Civil War. Hear gripping personal accounts of life during wartime. See when and where they're performing.

 

 

Get the Brochure

Get the Whole Story.

 

Order the Civil War Trails Map and Brochure.

 

Download the PDFs:

 

Buy the Book

Civil War Guide

Order your Civil War Guide today! Call 800.747.7790 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. EST or visit www.pabookstore.com

Pennsylvania Civil War Trails brochure (.pdf; 5 MB)

The brochure requires the Adobe Reader.
 

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Edward G. Rendell, Governor
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