This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the pivotal moment in the Civil War’s history, the Battle of Gettysburg. It’s one of America’s most iconic moments.

The Confederate army lost its momentum after the battle of July 1863 and ended the bloody war two years later. Although South Central Pennsylvania, now called the Dutch Country Roads region (DCR), took many years to recover its central role in history’s past, there are many cultural reminders.

There is no better way than the 150th to enjoy the richness of its 150th anniversary. Gettysburg anniversaryIt is better to go in person. Gettysburg is full of demonstrations, reenactments and new programs.

Explore the Civil War story in the area after you have visited Gettysburg.

Harrisburg’s National Civil War Museum is the only museum that is exclusively dedicated to the Civil War. The museum gives a complete understanding of the conflict as well as examining the experiences of soldiers and civilians.

U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center: Located in Carlisle, the center features an interactive one-mile outdoor trail with several Civil War aspects and a huge Civil War photography collection to explore.

Hopewell Furnace – Learn how pigiron production was essential for making Civil War weaponry. This historic national site is located near the Central Pennsylvania African American Museum, a stop on Underground Railroad, and other heritage sites on the Greater Reading Civil War Trail. You can find out more information at the Civil War entry to Trails. “Things To Do” at gogreaterreading.com.

Mary Ritner Boarding House: Come visit Chambersburg to see the location where John Brown, an abolitionist, planned the raid on Harpers Ferry 1859. Also, learn more about the Confederate burnings of the town at Chambersburg Heritage Center.

Steam into History: New this Year, take a ride aboard the 1800s-style steam locomotive in New Freedom. You’ll get a taste railroad history and experience reenactors. Hanover Junction is where Lincoln changed trains as he headed to deliver the Gettysburg Address.

President James Buchanan’s Wheatland: Lancaster’s national historical landmark is where you will find the house of the man who fought to calm a nation that was on the brinkof civil war and preceded Lincoln.

For information on how to plan a trip, please refer to the DCR entry below “Civil War Trails” at visitpa.com/pa-road-trips.