Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station™
The Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station™ is one of the most iconic and historic buildings in
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Best known as the location where President Abraham Lincoln arrived
on November 18, 1863, the eve of the dedication of the new national cemetery where he
delivered his iconic Gettysburg Address, the station originally opened in 1859. Gettysburg’s
railroad station was a vital hub for freight, travel and communication, and served as a train
depot for 83 years, with its final “All Aboard” in December 1942.
During the American Civil War, the station became a lifeline—first as a hospital for Union and
Confederate soldiers, and then as a center for receiving medical supplies and food—and for
transporting the wounded and dead. The station served as the first field hospital in Gettysburg
on the eve of the battle that began July 1, 1863.
After the war, the station went on to serve as a transportation hub where both Black and white
passengers came to reflect, remember and connect with the legacy of Gettysburg throughout
the postwar decades.
A History Stop
Today, the historic station is a living landmark, welcoming visitors to a new history stop.
Whether you’re beginning your Gettysburg journey or returning to reflect, the Gettysburg
Foundation invites you to step into history at the station where U.S. history was made.
Explore the stories of a field hospital during battle, a presidential passenger and a railway to
recovery. Through interpretive banners, historic artifacts and a brief orientation film, the station
tells the story of its historic roles before, during and after the Battle of Gettysburg—and the
stories of the people who passed through its doors. Docents and historians highlight its wartime
role and its broader significance to the town of Gettysburg and surrounding area.
Special events featuring historians, untold stories and extraordinary experiences are offered on
select dates throughout the year. Join us at the historic station and add our special events to
your Gettysburg itinerary.
Visitor Information
In addition to information, maps, brochures and guidance, visitors can plan their visit, obtain
tickets for exhibits, tours, experiences and special events offered by the Gettysburg Foundation
and get updates on National Park Service programs and events. Our docents, staff and
volunteers are standing by to help make your visit to Gettysburg a memorable one.
The Gettysburg Foundation is the official non-profit partner of the National Parks at Gettysburg:
Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site.
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