Is Gettysburg haunted? It's sure hard to ignore the large number ghostly encounters that visitors and residents of this historic Pennsylvania town claim to have experienced over the years. Of course, skeptics will always find other explanations for the phenomena but the sheer number of reported experiences certainly lends support to those convinced that something paranormal is happening here.

The idea of a haunted Gettysburg doesn't really seem so ridiculous when you consider the magnitude of the events that took place on this soil for 3 days in July, 1863.

In the sweltering, summer heat, two deadly armies--over 165,000 soldiers--met in Gettysburg and fought what history would record as the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. When the horrific haze of battle had cleared, there were 51,000 casualties and many believe that those involved in this epic battle still linger, eternally bound by ties forged in the agony and trauma of war.

Where is all this haunted activity taking place? Basically, any place the battle was fought is a likely place to encounter something paranormal. Many visitors to Gettysburg look for the "official" battlefield--the 6000 acres of federally maintained battlefield just outside of town--not realizing that much of the town also saw action from sharpshooters, skirmishes, field hospitals and tactical occupations. This abundance of battle-worn real estate makes it easy for even the beginner to stumble upon places that are linked to some type of haunted activity.

What should you do if you wish to see a bit of haunted history? Naturally, no one can guarantee that you will have a paranormal experience when you visit Gettysburg but there are guides, locations, and times to visit that can greatly improve your chances. Checking out knowledgeable books on the subject can definitely be helpful too. Below, I have gathered together enough information to get you well on your way to your first "haunted Gettysburg" experience. If that should happen, please let us know!

Great Books on the Subject

A True Haunted Gettysburg Story

The Best Times to Visit

Taking a Gettysburg Ghost Tour

Some Haunted Places to Visit