Map Showing Camp for Veterans at the 50th Anniversary Battle of Gettysburg

Scarce map of the veteran’s campground for the 50th anniversary at Gettysburg.

Over 50,000 veterans of the blue and the gray attended the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, even more than the number of invitations that were originally distributed. The throngs of former soldiers were housed in two large encampments outside the eponymous town, each organized with martial skill and divided between infantry and cavalry units. Numerous events took place during the weeklong gathering in the summer of 1913, including reenactments, parades, fireworks, and an address by President Woodrow Wilson.

This map was prepared in the Office of the Chief Quartermaster Camp for Veterans and shows in great detail the anniversary grounds, specially constructed transportation routes, and prominent local buildings. Of particular interest are the Cyclorama Building, General Lee’s headquarters, and the Lutheran Seminary. Also noted is the High Water Mark (of the Confederacy) – the furthest point reached by Rebel forces during Pickett’s charge. Text in the lower left provides further information on the organization of the camp.