Remembrance Day

November 19, 2008 marked the 145th Anniversary of the Dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery and President Lincoln's enduring Gettysburg Address. Coming as it did on the heels of 2008's historic Presidential Election, this year's celebration seemed to have a deeper meaning for many.

Celebrated film maker Ken Burns gave the keynote address focusing on our nation's inimitable ability to recreate ourselves in times of great challenge. He focused on Lincoln's immortal words, and gave a nod to the new "Tall, skinny lawyer from Illinois" who will take up residence in the White House on January 20, 2009.

The U.S. Mint also unveiled the design for a new Lincoln Silver Dollar coin, which will be available in limited quantity early next year. It has a wonderful image of Abraham Lincoln on the front and the last 43 words of the Gettysburg Address on the back. Click here to see a preview of the new coin.

A cold and windy weekend it was, but the weather didn't stop any of the festivities. As always, the 11th PVI reenactors (with Sallie!) performed their wreath laying ceremony at the 11th PA monument across from the Inn. They also read the names of the soldiers killed during the Battle and placed flags in their honor. As you probably well know, this is repeated by other reenactors all over the Battlefield during this weekend of reverence. This year's ceremonial parade saw approximately 3500 reenactors participae in a beautiful display of remembrance for those who fought and died here.

Here is a pic of frequent Inn guest and one of our very favorite reenactors Michael, from New Jersey. Michael is an impressive young man who probably knows more about Civil War and World War II history than the two of us ever will! His enthusiasm is catching. And that's "Iron Mike" to his fellow artillerymen!

Stay tuned for news on the grand opening of the David Wills House, scheduled to occur on February 12, 2009 to honor the bicentennial of Lincoln's birth. The Wills house is the home on Gettysburg's Lincoln Square where the President spent the night and put the finishing touches on the now famous Address. The restored home will feature interactive displays as well as the furniture that Lincoln used during his overnight visit.


~Todd