Days Five and Six: History, Scenic Drives, and More History

June 18 & 19, 2015

We have seen amazing things these last two days!  Yesterday, we visited Antietam and it was an experience I will never forget.  Words really cannot do justice to beautifully preserved battlefield.  The grounds, visitor's center, and the multitude of monuments create a reverent reminder of the bravery and sacrifice the field outside Sharpsburg, Maryland witnessed in September of 1862.

The driving tour was very well marked and allowed us to take in a lot of information and beautiful scenery across the rolling hills.  Mom patiently waited, as I would abandon the car and go striding down Bloody Lane, or across a field to view the cannons up close.  She was a true sport about the entire tour.

Now, a question for my students, all of whom have been invited to follow and comment on this blog:  Can you tell me the significance of this next photograph?

Today, Mom and I took a scenic route through Catoctin Mountain National Park on our way north to Gettysburg. We stopped at the Grotto of Lourdes and the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, enjoying breath-taking views and beautiful gardens.  

We arrived at the Gettysburg Visitor Center a little before noon, and were shocked by how many visitors were there!  I parked way back in Lot #3, a five minute, fast-paced hike away.  The facility was very nice and the cyclorama of Pickett's Charge was definitely the high point of the visit.  We enjoyed the bookstore, and some of the exibits, but found the crowded atmosphere daunting.  After two hours, we retrieved the car from "the back 40", otherwise known as Lot #3, and proceeded on the driving tour into the town of Gettysburg.  The streets were more crowded than the Visitors Center, so we stopped at a great restaurant and had a late lunch.

The staff at Gettysburg were friendly, helpful, and very enjoyable.  I cannot say the same for most of the visitors.

We have now arrived at Frederick, Maryland, and hope to enjoy a restful day tomorrow before we take out Sunday for our next adventure: Harper's Ferry!