The battle of Antietam was fought on September 17, 1862. Twelve hours of fighting resulted in 23,000 casualties–the single bloodiest day in American History. The battle was the culmination of the Maryland Campaign. Antietam is truly a turning point in the American Civil War. For the first time during the war a Confederate army crossed the Potomac River with the intention to invade Northern territory. For the first time the aftermath of an American Battlefield was photographs with these photos soon displayed to the public. Antietam saw the introduction of military medical procedures that are still in use today. Five days after the battle, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation—transforming the war.

Allow me to take you around this pristine battlefield. I have been with Federal Government for more than 30 years working for an agency that supports policy makers and the military with Geospatial Intelligence. During my career, I conducted multiple staff rides teaching intelligence Analysts and military how terrain and intelligence effects command decision making on the battlefield. Since my first visit to a Civil War Battlefield as a 6-year-old, I was hooked. I’ve been a lifelong student of the Civil War ever since. My personal connection with Antietam is that my ancestor experienced this bloody battle as a member of the 49th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment. I want to share with visitors my knowledge and passion for this fascinating topic at one of the most iconic American Battlefields.

Join me for a tour to visit some of the most recognizable sights in the American Civil War. Learn about the fighting that swirled around a small pacifist church building; and how this iconic symbol earned its nickname: The Dunker Church. We will visit the Miller Cornfield, the sight of some of the most intense fighting in the entire war. Take a walk with me through a sunken farm lane; the scene of bloody fighting. We will view a picturesque stone arch bridge and learn the story behind the “Burnside’s Bridge.” Let’s take a walk in the footsteps and hear the words of the soldiers who fought at Antietam, along with the local civilians that lived here. Join me to experience the stories that make this battle a classic of the American Civil War.

Contact the Antietam Museum Store at (301) 432-4329 or via email at AntietamTours@easternnational.org to schedule a tour with me or another Antietam Battlefield Guide.