Monday, May 25, 2009

Happy Memorial Day!

Today we take a moment to reflect and send a solemn "Thank You" to all of our nation's combat veterans past, present and future on this Memorial Day.  Did you know that this holiday has its origins in America's Civil War?  First officially celebrated and observed on May 30, 1868 the day was originally known as "Decoration Day", because it was a time set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves.



The town of Gettysburg boasts one of our country's oldest Memorial Day parades. Today we will celebrate the 142nd annual event at 2 pm. The parade will form at Lefever Street in downtown, and will process west on East Middle Street, then turning south on Baltimore Street, 
where it will enter the Gettysburg National Cemetery thru the Baltimore Street Gate.   

The annual Service at the Soldiers National Monument in the Gettysburg National Cemetery
 will follow at 3 pm.  

New Event!
"Art in the Park Tours", to be led by Licensed Battlefield Guides Ralph Siegel & Sue Boardman, two well-known faces to guests of the Doubleday Inn!

The Gettysburg Battlfield is home to more than 1,300 monuments and memorials, making it one of the world's largest collections of outdoor sculpture.  On this "Art in the Park" tour, visitors can learn more about these works of art as well as the artists who created them.    

Times for tours are: Saturday, June 20/27 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; Saturday, June 20/27 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 2027 3 – 5 p.m.; Saturday, June 20/27 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 21/28 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Sunday, June 21/28 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 21/28 3 - 5 p.m. Tours will begin at the Rupp House on Baltimore Street, and tickets may be purchased on site or by contacting the Gettysburg Foundation at 1-866-889-1243.  

We wish you and your family a very happy Memorial Day, and hope that your summer plans will bring you for a visit to your "home away from home" in Gettysburg very soon!

Todd, Christine & Molly (the upside down one in this pic!)













 

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Happy Spring!

Our season is in full swing as we head into May, and our garden is as well! Thanks to our friend Mike for sending the beautiful pics of the backyard. We were so  happy to have the weeping cherry tree that we planted last Fall bloom this year...though it is a bit dwarfed by the pear tree in this photo, you still get the idea!  

It has been an exceptionally cool and wet spring thus far, which keeps the grass plush & green, and growing as fast as Todd can keep cutting it.  Good thing Molly is always right there to make sure he hasn't missed any spots (or run over any tennis balls)!

The Apple Blossoms were gorgeous this year, covering the hillsides of Adams County. We were so excited that the new orchard that was planted adjacent to the Inn bloomed as well.  We will be keeping an eye out for apples this fall.  With the warmer weather also comes an abundance of fresh, local produce. Beginning in late April, the Gettysburg Farm Market is held every Saturday morning from 7 am to 12 noon in the historic Lincoln Square.  You can get everything from fruits & vegetables, to herbs and fresh flowers here each week.  


The Round Barn in nearby Biglerville is also open from 9-5 daily beginning in May, and is another great spot for fresh produce and homemade baked treats.  A beautiful 
ride on Route 30 West of about 8 miles takes you to the yellow blinker light; make a right onto Cashtown Road and the Round Barn is on your right.

After visiting the Round Barn you can also visit nearby Hauser Estates Winery and Adams County Winery.  Both are open daily from 11 am to 6 pm.  Be sure to check their websites for seasonal events, concerts and tastings.  The wineries are an easy 10 minute drive from one to the other, so be sure to give both a try!

The National Park has begun to implement their seasonal Ranger Programs as staff is available, and the full daily schedule will be posted this month at their website.  These programs are all run by the Park's excellent knowledgeable interpretive rangers and best of all they are FREE!  You can also inquire at the main Visitor's Center and Museum information desk for a daily schedule of programs being offered.  

 The beautiful weather will also play host to many living history encampments in Gettysburg and the surrounding areas in the months to come.  For a complete listing of events, be sure to visit the Gettysburg Convention & Visitor's Burea's website for a complete calendar listing of events.

We hope you are enjoying your Spring and that a trip to Gettysburg will bring you "home" to the Doubleday Inn for a visit soon!

Christine