Buzzwords, De-buzzed – 5 Keys to Unlocking Civil War Terminology
There’s just no reason to get lost in military jargon. I can say that, because I was once lost in the jargon. When I found my way out of the fog, I realized that I…
Month: May 2017
Patriots to Gettysburg – Soldiers’ National Cemetery
Why do people visit Soldiers’ National Cemetery? How does Soldiers’ National Cemetery draw patriots to Gettysburg? … I think you need to feel it, hear it, or touch it to understand. Soldiers’ National Cemetery Draws…
Memorial Day and a New Burst of Freedom – A Bicyclist’s Perspective
In anticipation of Memorial Day, today’s post is about my experience bicycling Culp’s Hill in Gettysburg National Military Park. For me, battlefield bicycling ignites a “new burst of freedom” (a play on President Lincoln’s words)…
5 Surprisingly Easy Ways to Get Oriented Along Gettysburg Cemetery and Seminary Ridges
My ears perk-up whenever I overhear a battlefield guide talk about natural and physical landmarks. That’s because it is very helpful to know where I am standing in relationship to the hills, woods, monuments and buildings…
Prepare for Your Bicycle Trip to Gettysburg – One Book?
If you can buy only one history book to prepare for your bicycle trip to Gettysburg, I recommend that you first consider your needs. Okay, that may sound obvious. But if you have never planned…
Gettysburg Equestrian Monuments and Their Riders
There are eight Gettysburg equestrian monuments. Can you identify which is which? What about their riders, do you know their names? Let’s have a little fun. The monuments listed in the following table are ordered…
The Ultimate Guide to Selecting a Bicycle-Friendly Hotel
Bicycling historians know that hotel selection can make or break a trip. And it’s not about money. Money won’t necessarily buy you what you need. Fortunately, selecting a bicycle-friendly hotel is not complicated. Today, I…
Cannot Learn History? 3 Common Reasons
I begin with a personal comment: My interest in American Civil War history accelerated after my kids grew up. I like to think it’s because I started to have more time to read and reflect….
Gettysburg Union State Monuments – Simple Drills for Fun
Today, a challenge: Test your knowledge about Gettysburg Union state monuments with these interactive quizzes. Even if you know very little, this is an easy way to learn a lot. After all, there are only seven Union…
Simplest Ever Introduction to Gettysburg – Book Recommendation
Sometimes, the best books are written for kids but read by adults. My top pick for the simplest ever introduction to Gettysburg goes to MacKinlay Kantor. Originally written in 1952, this little classic for middle-school children…