Step Back in Time at the National Civil War Museum

People from all over world flock to Gettysburg to learn about the American Civil War. It's where the Battle of Gettysburg took place and where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous address. But it's not the only place here in south-central Pennsylvania where you can delve into the details of our country's deadliest military conflict. The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg is a must-see museum for any history buff and aims to tell the story of both the North and the South without bias. The museum is about a 40-minute drive from the B.F. Hiestand House.

Opened in 2001, the National Civil War Museum provides an overview from the pre-war period through the Appomattox Court House surrender and beyond. Its collections exceed 24,000 items, including artifacts, manuscripts, documents, photographs, and other printed material. Tours are self-guided and include a combination of video presentations, sound and light shows, life-size dioramas and, of course, an extensive artifact collection. Exhibits examine the conflict of slavery and its human and economic consequences, civilian and military life during the four-year war, significant campaigns and battles, and so much more.

The museum itself is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Harrisburg, the location of the largest Union camp during the Civil War, Camp Curtin. The centerpiece of the museum entrance is a bronze statue titled "Moment of Mercy." It depicts Confederate soldier Richard Kirkland at the Battle of Fredericksburg, who came to the aid of wounded Union soldiers in a selfless act of courage and mercy. Stroll around the museum grounds and follow the Walk of Valor, a ribbon of red brick bearing the names of Civil War veterans honored by their surviving descendants.

The museum suggests giving yourself at least two hours to visit its galleries and grounds, although Civil War enthusiasts will want to allow more time. Also check out the museum's events for special lectures and presentations throughout the year.