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Dear Alumni and Friends, 

Gettysburg College is pleased to partner with Orbridge to offer our alumni exceptional travel opportunities—a combination of exclusive itineraries, deluxe properties or ships, knowledgeable expedition leaders, and the company of fellow alumni. 

With special features and unparalleled access to distinguished locations, you will discover unforgettable places, people, and cultures, and enjoy experiences that will enrich your understanding of our diverse and wonderful world. Whether close to home or far away, on land or by sea, your next adventure is waiting! 

Join us and our partner Orbridge—make your reservation today! 

Joe Lynch ‘85 Executive Director Alumni Relations

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Family Weekend Schedule

Family Weekend 2020 is canceled

Family Weekend 2023 Schedule of Events

The schedule is subject to change. Please check back regularly for updates.

Events with asterisks (*) require registration. 

Friday, October 27

Saturday, october 28, sunday, october 29.

Trails & Tours

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Guided Cupola Tour and Museum Admission

Last Date: 7/31/23

9:15 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM

Price: $32 adults, discounts available

Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center 111 Seminary Ridge Gettysburg, PA

On June 30, 1863, Brigadier General John Buford climbed to the Cupola of the Lutheran Seminary Building, where he saw the campfires of thousands of Confederate soldiers burning to the west.  Predicting a clash was imminent, this view helped him lay out his lines of defense to protect Gettysburg’s pivotal road network. The next morning, as the largest battle in the Western Hemisphere erupted, Buford again ascended to the Cupola to watch for vital Federal reinforcements. Today, you can stand where Buford stood and, with a guide, discover how this view helped chart the course of the Battle of Gettysburg.

The Cupola Tour and Museum Experience includes a 30-minute guided tour of the historic building’s famous cupola. Climb to the attic level and then up the wooden staircase to the top of the building, where you will have plenty of time for photos as you see the battlefield from the same vantage point as Union Gen. Buford. Children must be at least 48 inches tall to take part in the Cupola Tour. This ticket INCLUDES general museum admission, which is valid all day. You do not need to buy separate museum admission.

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The ghosts of gettysburg college.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is known to many ghost-hunters and historians as one of the most haunted locations in the United States. The American Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg left a stain on the town of Gettysburg that resulted in many of the hauntings we hear about today, including that of Gettysburg College.

The American Civil War was a trying time for all involved, with families and friends losing loved ones as a result of these darker days in our nation’s history. Gettysburg saw what was possibly the very worst that came of the war.

The battles that took place there are some of the bloodiest and most barbaric ever recorded in our nation’s history. Fought in the year 1863 from the dates of July 1 st  through July 3 rd , the Battle of Gettysburg ultimately resulted in approximately 46,000 to 51,000 casualties.

This grand fight took place on Gettysburg Battlefield. Interestingly, our subject matter today sits just adjacent to this infamous battlefield. Founded 31 years before the Battle of Gettysburg took place, Gettysburg College is largely considered one of Gettysburg’s most haunted locations.

Looking to explore haunted Gettysburg for yourself? Join us for a hauntingly fun and historically accurate ghost tour!

Gettysburg’s War Stricken History

The battle began on the west at the ridges of Lohr’s, Whistler’s, School-House, and Knoxlyn between Cashtown and Gettysburg. Near Gettysburg, dismounted Union cavalry defended McPherson’s Ridge and Herr’s Ridge, with infantry support arriving to defend Seminary Ridge at the borough’s west side. Oak Ridge, a northward extension of both McPherson Ridge and Seminary Ridge, is capped by Oak Hill, a site for artillery that commanded a good area north of the town.

Since the college stood directly in the midst of the Battle of Gettysburg, it was only logical to use this massive structure as a makeshift hospital in order to care for wounded soldiers. This hospital was unique in that it cared for troops of both the North and South.

It is incredible to note that upon forces taking control of the college, students rushed to the aid of soldiers wounded in battle. Every hallway and room within the college was occupied by an estimated 700 Confederate Soldiers. These selfless students certainly had their hands full in caring for these complete strangers.

Henry Watkins, class of 1864, recorded that from anywhere inside Gettysburg College, and at any time, the shrieks, prayers, and moans of the wounded or dying could be heard. This fact will come into play shortly.

For a month after the Battle of Gettysburg, the college continued to serve as a Confederate hospital and prison camp for captured Union soldiers and officials. Surgeries also continued well after the war, taking place in Penn Hall and the surrounding fields, while the dead remained scattered outside.

At the close of the battle, nearly 22,000 wounded soldiers remained on the battlefield. These troops were subsequently treated at the outlying Camp Letterman hospital or nearby make-shift hospitals in houses, churches, and other buildings. Dead soldiers on the battlefield totaled 8,900, with contractors hired to bury the dead that resulted from the grisly war.

Strange Encounters at the College

With so much torment and chaos taking place within the hallowed halls of Gettysburg College, it’s a foregone conclusion as to why this place could possibly be haunted. To this day, visitors, students, and faculty alike account for unexplainable occurrences.

One location at the college that seems to garner more attention from ghost-hunters than any other is that of Penn Hall. Numerous people have reported hearing the moans and cries of young men, presumably belonging to the lost spirits of soldiers who were injured in battle and ultimately died within Penn Hall.

The details of many of the sightings here are chilling, to say the least. One report came from a couple of college administrators back in the 1980s who were walking to the lower portion of Penn Hall during a late night working together. Upon arriving from the elevator ride down, when its doors opened, there stood dozens of apparitions dressed in hospital attire tending to fallen soldiers.

Like something directly out of a horror flick, the spirits simultaneously looked up at the administrators who quickly fled to the aid of a nearby security guard. However, when the three of them returned to the grisly site, all evidence of their encounter was absent; only a dark and empty room was to be found.

It’s interesting to add that, years ago, a couple was retold this story by a complete stranger and professed that they know all about it, as the person who experienced this event was a friend of theirs who once attended the college.

But after further details were given by the stranger – namely, that two administrators had witnessed the spirits – it turned out that the couple was referring to an entirely separate account. This would seemingly cement that Penn Hall is indeed haunted.

Ghostly soldiers are a common sighting at Gettysburg College, but one particular location is home to a spirit of a different type known as the “Lady in White”. Her dwelling place of choice is that of Glatfelter Hall.

Her story alleges that she lost her love as a result of the war and committed suicide by jumping from Glatfelter’s bell tower, torn over her loss. Lore tells that whoever looks into her eyes will end up meeting the same fate as she.

Another widely-circulated tale is that of another apparition who frequents Penn Hall. Referred to as either the “Lone Sentinel” or the “Lookout”, this ghostly phantom is often seen carrying a lantern and rifle, as if still carrying out his duties and on his patrol all these years later.

It is truly incredible to hear how the students of Gettysburg College sprang into action in order to come to the aid of their wounded brethren. Whether they were fighting for the North or South, prejudices were set aside.

This is a sobering lesson that many today would be well-served to learn from. So often we see actions and events taking place in America that are merely an eyelash away from reliving the agonizing times of the Civil War. We need to check our emotions to possibly prevent another civil war from breaking out.

The events that unfolded during the trying times at Gettysburg College will forever go down in history as some of the most patriotic actions ever to be displayed by our nation’s youths. Their selfless heroics no doubt served to save the lives of many wounded soldiers who were fighting for what they believed.

These events certainly come into play when stories of ghostly activity are reported. Spirits of lost love, brave young men and women, mighty soldiers, doctors, nurses, and generals are all said to have been seen within Gettysburg College. Most seem to be harmless, simply reliving the days of the Civil War.

Throughout Gettysburg College’s history, it has been the source of many ghostly accounts occurring within its walls. Being home to some of the bloodiest events during the American Civil War, it is no wonder that this location is a favorite of many ghost-hunters and thrill-seekers.

Sources Cited:

https://www.gettysburg.edu/about-the-college/college-history/

Featured Image Source

https://cupola.gettysburg.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=&httpsredir=1&article=1004&context=cwfac

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2018/oct/30/halloween-gettysburg-americas-most-haunted-town

A Local's Guide To Visiting Gettysburg In The Summer (2024)

13 insider tips for the perfect gettysburg summer trip.

Since I’m a lifelong resident of Gettysburg, I get asked a lot of questions about visiting Gettysburg in the summer.

It’s a good time to visit because there are lots of things to do, but you should also be aware of other factors before you book your stay.

Come along as we look at the pros and cons of visiting Gettysburg in the summer. Once you have the facts, you can decide if it’s the best time to visit Gettysburg for you.

Don’t have time to read the whole post?

Visiting Gettysburg in the summer has benefits, like longer business hours and more activities, but it also entails crowded venues, uncomfortable temperatures and higher prices for hotel rooms.

Past Lane Travels Contains Affiliate Links And Is A Member Of The Amazon LLC Associates Program. If You Make A Purchase Using One Of These Links, I May Receive Compensation At No Extra Cost To You. Read My Disclaimer For More Information.

How Many Days Did The Battle Of Gettysburg Last?

First of all, let’s cover the basics. The Battle of Gettysburg took place over three grueling days, July 1-3 in 1863.

It occurred as a result of Confederate (South) General Robert E. Lee’s ambitious invasion into the North, and ended in a Union (North) victory.

The Battle of Gettysburg resulted in more than 50,000 casualties and was the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address,” which he delivered at the dedication of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg on November 19, 1863.

Tips For Exploring Gettysburg In The Summer

1. pack your patience and allow enough time.

The Gettysburg National Military Park encompasses 6,000 acres and includes approximately 1,328 monuments, markers and memorials .

That’s just the battlefield! There are also a wide range of museums , shops and unique restaurants in downtown Gettysburg , as well as interesting sites to see within 10 miles of the town.

During the summer months, many of the park roads are busy, so travel will be slow. Museums and restaurants will also be busy so pack your patience and leave plenty of time.

Did you know that I can design a customized itinerary in Gettysburg for you? If you don’t have time to plan your trip, find a hotel, decide where to eat, I can help! Check out my Itinerary page and find out how I can help create a vacation that caters to your personal travel style and preferences.

2. Book Your Trip Early

There are plenty of hotels in Gettysburg, but only a handful that are located downtown or in the tourist district of Steinwehr Avenue. These fill up quickly.

There are also campgrounds just outside of town that offer everything from tent sites to cottages. Bed and breakfast options are plentiful, as are historic and unique places to stay .

Decide what type of accommodations you would like, and take the time to book immediately! Whether you need a hotel that takes pets , or want one with a pool , if you book early, you’ll be sure to get one that fits your needs.

3. Pick Your Tour: There’s More Than One Option

There are all kinds of ways to tour the Battlefield , from using an an audio tour to hiring a Licensed Battlefield Guide to accompany you in your car.

I highly recommend the two-hour bus tour , especially if you’re short on time. It gives a good overview of the entire 3-day battle so you can find places that you want to visit on your own later.

Pro Tip: For those who are visiting Gettysburg in the summer, the bus tour offers an open-air double-decker bus that kids love. There is even a sunset bus tour !

Other ways to see the battlefield include by bike, Segway and by horseback . The horseback tours are my personal favorite, and luckily there are a number of different options for rides in Gettysburg.

You can choose a long, scenic ride or one that includes a Licensed Guide riding with you.

(There are carriage rides too ).

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And I have to mention the ghost tours ! They take place all year and there are lots of different options, from family friendly to deep investigations in the dead of night.

Check out these Gettysburg Ghost Tours .

4. Get Your Bearings

View a map ahead of your visit to see where landmarks and locations are so that you get a sense of where they are in relation to each other.

You can pick up a park map at the visitor center or download it onto your phone .

You may want to avoid driving through town if visiting Gettysburg in the summer months, unless it’s necessary to get to your destination.

Taking the streets parallel to Baltimore Street (Stratton or Washington streets), can help relieve congestion in the downtown area.

5. Dress For The Weather

Many out-of-state visitors don’t realize how hot and humid it gets in Gettysburg during the summer months. Dress comfortably with light clothing and drink plenty of water.

Also use sunscreen generously and wear a hat if you’re going to be exploring outside.

6. Timing For Your Summer Visit To Gettysburg

Want to know when to visit Gettysburg during the summer months? Well, the peak tourist season is March through October, with April through the second week of June being very busy with school trips.

If you are visiting during the busy summer months, plan to get an early start or explore late in the afternoon. Sidewalks, parking lots, restaurants and museums are usually most crowded in the middle of the day.

7. Take Advantage Of Seasonal Activities

If you visit Gettysburg during the Battle of Gettysburg anniversary week (Jul 1-3), you will have the opportunity to see a Civil War reenactment , as well as living history events that don’t take place all year.

Check the Gettysburg National Park Service website for special events on the dates you are visiting.

8. Go Off The Beaten Path

There is so much to see in Gettysburg, that many visitors miss the history that is hidden plain sight.

In fact, even locals are often unaware of some of the historical artifacts that they pass every day. Did you know there is a cannon from the War of 1812 that is embedded in the sidewalk downtown?

The Gettysburg Handbook is a great resource for finding hidden gems.

9. Don’t Know Where To Start?

If you’re visiting Gettysburg in the summer, the best place to start is the Visitor Center at 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg. It has an Information Desk, ticket sales, Museum Bookstore, Refreshment Saloon and restrooms.

Entrance to the Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg National Cemetery are free, however, there is a fee to enter the exhibit galleries at the visitor center, see a Civil War film and experience the Cyclorama program.

Don’t forget to grab a copy of my TRAVEL PLANNER . This 16-page PDF guide helps you organize your trip, from what to pack, to preparing a budget and keeping a schedule.

I recommend that you save time in line by buying your tickets online. This is especially useful when visiting during peak season. (It gets very busy!)

Backpacks and big parcels are not allowed inside the Museum and Visitor Center. Leave them in the trunk of your car.

Pro Tip: Allow plenty time to browse the Gift Shop/Book Store. It’s big!

10. Beware Of Ticks

Be aware that ticks are common in the Gettysburg area, especially in tall grass and around trees. Reduce your chances of getting a tick-borne disease by using repellents, checking for ticks, and showering after being outdoors.

Tip : If you have a tick bite followed by a fever or rash, seek medical attention.

11. Where Should I Park In Gettysburg?

Parking in Gettysburg is scarce especially during the busy summer months, so familiarize yourself with the location of lots beforehand.

In addition to the limited (and expensive) metered street parking, you can find Horse Alley Parking Garage  behind the Gettysburg Hotel.

There are a few other metered Short-Term Parking Lots , and some free parking options if you don’t mind walking. The Gettysburg Rec Park on Long Lane is one option, as is the Gettysburg Middle School off Baltimore Street.

Need Help Planning Your Trip? Find the perfect accommodation in Gettysburg with Booking.com . From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, they have a room for every preference, including pets and pools.

Discover the best tours and activities with Viator or Get Your Guide . Explore iconic landmarks, take guided tours and immerse yourself in history.

Rent a car with Discover Cars and enjoy the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, explore the countryside and make the most of your trip.

   Need a flight? Check FareDrop for the best deals.     

12. Tips For Traveling With Kids

For younger children, make sure you visit the Kids of 1863 Museum on Baltimore Street. It’s free for the children with a paying adult and provides lots of hands-on fun.

Another great experience to get the kids involved is to pick up an Activity Guide for Junior Ranger Candidates at the information desk in the Visitor Center. Kids can receive a patch and certificate making them a Junior Ranger at Gettysburg National Military Park.

If you need a place to let the kids get out and stretch their legs, plan to spend some time exploring Devil’s Den and Little Round Top .

Special Note : Monuments and cannon were placed to honor the sacrifices made by our brave ancestors. Please help preserve these irreplaceable historic objects by not climbing, sitting or hanging on them.

13. Tips For Saving Money In Gettysburg

Everything is expensive these days and especially travel! For my last tip, I’d thought I’d give you some tips about free things to do in Gettysburg .

Believe it or not, there are some things to do in the summer in Gettysburg that won’t leave you broke.

As mentioned before, the battlefield is free and it’s worth exploring to see the beautiful monuments, many of which are works of art.

The Gettysburg Museum of History at 219 Baltimore Street, is also free of charge. Make sure you read the post about free things to do for a full list.

FAQs About Visiting Gettysburg In The Summer

Can you drive through gettysburg battlefield at night.

National Park Service roads are open dawn to dusk. There are state roads through the battlefield that can be used at any time.

Is Little Round Top Free?

Yes, Little Round Top is free to visit. Keep in mind if visiting Gettysburg in the summer that the area will be congested during the day and weekends.

Where Can I Walk In Gettysburg?

You can walk anywhere you want on the Gettysburg Battlefield although it is advised to stay on trails to protect vegetation. The town of Gettysburg is very safe and walkable.

Wrap-Up: Visiting Gettysburg In The Summer

While the warm weather and diverse range of activities make summer an enticing time to visit Gettysburg, visitors should be prepared for larger crowds and higher costs.

This increased foot traffic may lead to longer wait times for attractions and dining establishments, requiring visitors to plan their itinerary accordingly and exercise patience.

With proper planning and flexibility, however, a summer trip to Gettysburg can still be a rewarding and memorable experience.

The post A Local’s Guide To Visiting Gettysburg In The Summer (2024) appeared first on Past Lane Travels .

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First-generation student Lupe Lazaro ’24 communicates value of Gettysburg College education

In 2018, during her senior year of high school, Lupe Lazaro ’24 was introduced to Gettysburg College by Darryl Jones , who previously served Gettysburg College’s Office of Admissions for 35 years and frequently traveled to the New York City area to meet with prospective students.

“He was always in my high school and became a familiar face,” said Lazaro, a first-generation college student from The Young Women’s Leadership School in Manhattan, New York City. “Once senior year approached, we had so many conversations on what my college plans were and what I wanted to do.”  

While Lazaro was initially firm about staying in New York City close to her family, Jones encouraged her to apply to schools outside the city and invited her to experience A Consequential Education at Gettysburg College.

“‘I think you should give it a shot anyway and gain new experiences,’” Lazaro recalled Jones telling her and later visited campus several times. “It felt like everyone I spoke to seemed to care about me beyond whether I was going to come to Gettysburg or not. They were interested in what I wanted to do with my life and where I saw myself. They actually cared.”

“When I came back to campus in 2019,” she continued, “it was the first time I’d ever seen the stars. I love the stars, but I live in New York City. On my bus ride home, I applied Early Decision immediately because I knew [seeing the stars] was my sign.”

At Gettysburg, Lazaro, a psychology major with minors in sociology and Spanish , learned to balance all her coursework and activities. She wanted to unite the best of her academic and co-curricular experiences by seeking opportunities to help others. For Lazaro, community service, including through Greek life and during her time as the Panhellenic Council president, helped her find her place within Gettysburg College’s community .

One of her most impactful experiences was working with the Center for Public Service during her sophomore year. She sat down with juniors and seniors in local high schools and encouraged them to grasp opportunities for post-secondary education, even beyond the state of Pennsylvania, just like Jones did for her. Many were first-generation students like her, with immigrant parents unfamiliar with post-secondary education opportunities.

“Seeing the then-juniors graduating was huge for me because I was following them through going to college,” she said. “It’s been an exercise in learning how to step into your own power and understand that you can make a difference. It doesn’t mean a huge overnight change, but just sitting with a student and encouraging them to apply to college. Getting other first-generation students hope and confidence has achieved so much.”

Lazaro has also served as a community liaison and media specialist with the Latin American Student Association (LASA), an organization connected with the Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies Department , gaining intercultural fluency in Latino heritage and traditions and celebrating Gettysburg’s Latino history. Through her work, she encouraged students to pursue their dreams and embrace their roots.

On campus, Lazaro worked as a student tour guide for the Office of Admissions, a role in which she sat down with prospective students for lunch to discuss what they’re looking for in a college and to help them find their place. She also participated in several senior panels, including Get Acquainted Day , for students and families. Through her work with Admissions, Lazaro especially takes pride in giving families representing people of color (POC) the Gettysburg experience during their visits.

“We’re the first people prospective students and families alike interact with. It was so scary for me, being a first-generation student. I have never gone on college tours because my parents would never be able to understand them. They didn’t speak English, so admissions was a scary place for me,” said Lazaro. “Coming into the space, I didn’t want other POC women to be scared. I want to be somebody people see and say, ‘She did it. How do I get there?’”

“Gettysburg holistically rounds you out because you get many experiences in many different realms of life. It teaches you a lot inside and outside of the classroom.” – Lupe Lazaro ’24

Every day, Lazaro is grateful to talk with students about how Gettysburg will fit within their journey to personal and professional fulfillment through the Gettysburg Approach . She experienced firsthand the value of receiving a breadth and depth of knowledge and set of enduring skills. As a result, Lazaro strengthened her confidence to embrace her future, something she always shared with prospective students.

“Gettysburg offers students the ability to holistically develop as a person through the fact that you can be involved in many different activities and realms,” she said. “My Admissions side has nothing to do with my Greek life side, but they both strengthen different pieces of myself. Gettysburg teaches you a lot inside and outside of the classroom.”

With her time at Gettysburg completed, she will now apply her acquired knowledge and skills, including problem solving, to her role as a project leader at the New York Botanical Garden in environmental science research.

“A Gettysburg education taught me that I can’t just give up,” said Lazaro. “There’s not always one set answer or solution to go about things … and there’s always a different manner to approach something.”

Learn how Gettysburg College invites students to unite knowledge and enduring skills as they explore their academic and co-curricular curiosities.

By Katie Lauriello ’25 Photos by Abbey Frisco Posted: 05/16/24

More stories

Giovanna komst ’24 enters public health industry prepared to lead.

Thu, 16 May 2024

Brandon Fey ’27 raises awareness of environmental threat through First-Year Seminar, community engagement

Fri, 10 May 2024

Putting skills into service: Jack Comegno ’24 connects Gettysburg’s consequential education with career goals in military law

Tue, 7 May 2024

A model of mentorship: Alumni pay it forward to the next generation of Gettysburgians

Wed, 1 May 2024

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Dean of Admissions Gail Sweezey to Retire After 41 Years at Gettysburg College

Posted By Laken Franchetti on May 11, 2024 | 1 comment

By Laken Franchetti, Editor-in-Chief

Dean of Admissions Gail Sweezey has served the campus community at Gettysburg College for 41 years in the Office of Admissions. (Photo William Oehler/The Gettysburgian)

At the faculty meeting on March 21 , President Bob Iuliano revealed to faculty members that Dean of Admissions Gail Sweezey would be retiring at the end of July. Sweezey has served the campus community at Gettysburg College for 41 years, and she was given a round of applause from faculty when Iuliano revealed the news.

The following day, Vice President for Enrollment and Educational Services Carey Thompson sent an email to all employees that informed them of Sweezey’s retirement. In the email, Thompson recalled first meeting Sweezey and called attention to the notable work she has accomplished.

“Gail and I first met when she joined the board of the Common Application, where she eventually became board chair. She has been extraordinarily gracious and helpful in welcoming me to this role, and she has been an outstanding thought partner as we have navigated a quickly evolving enrollment environment together,” Thompson wrote. “Her work has literally changed the lives of the thousands of students she has met over the years and staff she has led over that time. She has her share of Stoles of Gratitude from Gettysburg graduates who have recognized her as a true difference maker in their lives.”

Sweezey began working at Gettysburg College in July 1983 as an Admission Counselor after graduating from Allegheny College. Her tenure within the Office of Admissions spans five Gettysburg College presidents and three vice presidents.

“When you work in admissions, you’re part of a really important profession. What I’ve always loved about it is that it’s given me an external view while also working internally for Gettysburg College. It’s a really rewarding profession in that you make connections, build professional friendships and like-minded people in the college counseling and admissions world,” Sweezey said. “I feel really lucky to have worked with very strong professionals who have strategic visions and a deep love for this place.”

Professionally, Sweezey served two rounds on the executive board of the Pennsylvania Association for College Admission Counseling (PACAC) and has been active at the national level in the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). Sweezey also has assisted with the College Board and acted as Chair of the Common Application to help refine the governance of the organization.

At the College, Sweezey is proud of building a data-driven Office of Admissions, implementing a graduate program with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and implementing the Early Action decision for prospective Gettysburg College students. Sweezey also reflected on her efforts to further build community at the College.

“I’m really proud of helping the College to diversify students from all backgrounds,” Sweezey shared. “I am proud of things like the Sunderman Conservatory, and recruiting students to participate in our outstanding Center for Public Service and the Garthwait Leadership Center, and getting students to participate in X-SIG—even though I’m not involved in the daily operations of those organizations, I am involved in supporting the team who represents those important high-impact experiences on campus. I’m proud of building that community here.”

Sweezey shared advice for students currently applying to college and underscored the importance of not overlooking what an institution could offer.

“Gettysburg College is about opening doors, and the kind of things that a 17-year-old thinks they want may not be what they end up doing,” Sweeney explained. “So, you have to find a place that allows you to develop your passions beyond what you think they might be. I think Gettysburg College does that better than any place that I have seen.”

When asked about faculty members who have had a lasting impact on her, Sweeney reflected on her time with former Professors of English Mary Margaret Stewart and James Pickering. Sweeney credited them with reaching out to her and making her feel part of the Gettysburg community when she began working for the College. Sweeney also highlighted the mentorship she received from former Dean of Admissions Delwin Gustafson, who hired her in 1983 and taught her “that the foundation of a strong admissions office is outstanding customer service, and that behind every application is a person.”

Gettysburg College’s Office of Admissions (Photo William Oehler/The Gettysburgian)

In his email to College employees, Thompson acknowledged that Sweezey has created a lasting impact of her own: “Those of us in the Enrollment and Educational Services Division—and I am sure many faculty and staff across campus—will miss her very much and wish her the best as she enters this well-deserved next chapter in her life.”

This impact is already being seen as students and faculty members react to news of Sweezey’s retirement.

Tour guide and Student Leader in the Office of Admissions Antoinette Chango ’24 got to know Sweezey through her time spent in the Office of Admissions, as well as during orientation for the Class of 2027, where Chango worked as an Orientation Student Coordinator.

“Working with Gail has been such a treat! She always starts our semesters as tour guides with such kind and inspirational words, and is always so beyond excited to welcome students back to campus at the end of each break period,” Chango said. “I had the unique pleasure of working with Gail this past summer while working on first-year orientation and the excitement that she had to welcome students to campus was so lovely to see! Gail takes the time to get to know the students she works with, and even some students she doesn’t! She will be dearly missed!”

Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies Ian Isherwood ’00 reflected on meeting Sweezey when he was applying to attend Gettysburg College as an undergraduate.

“I met Gail Sweezey during my college interview in 1995. She was incredibly enthusiastic and made Gettysburg seem like an ideal place for a nerdy seventeen-year-old prospective history major,” Isherwood shared. “At the time and since, she has understood what makes this place unique and has attracted many generations of fellow Gettysburgians. I like to think that we are a better place because of her efforts.”

Associate Professor of Political Science Scott Boddery echoed Isherwood’s sentiment, highlighting the incredible impact Sweezey has had on the Gettysburg College community.

“The dedication Gail has had for the college and our students has been truly remarkable,” Boddery said. “The time she invested to connect prospective students with faculty was significant, and it was done with care and understanding for the needs of the student.  Gail has been a delight to work with, and she will be dearly, dearly missed.”

Thompson revealed that he would assume additional responsibilities as acting Dean of Admission and will reflect on the College’s current and future needs. As for Sweezey, she is looking to enjoy her time during retirement, yet she acknowledged that she will miss watching the transformation that Gettysburg College students undergo.

“There’s a lot of things that I have loved about being here at Gettysburg College,” Sweezey said. “I am going to miss watching the students I have admitted transform. That is the key, and that is the piece I will miss the most—the transformations that I have seen every single day that have given me energy and have always kept me going.”

This article originally appeared on pages 12 to 13 of the No. 2 April 2024 edition of The Gettysburgian’s magazine.

Author: Laken Franchetti

Laken Franchetti ’24 serves as the Editor-in-Chief for The Gettysburgian. She has previously served as News Editor, Assistant News Editor and as a staff writer for the news and arts and entertainment sections. Laken is an English with a writing concentration and history double major. On-campus, she is the Editor-in-Chief for Her Campus, the Nonfiction Genre Head for The Mercury and a user services assistant at Musselman Library. Laken is also a Lincoln scholar and spent the Fall ’22 semester abroad in London and Lancaster, England. In her free time, Laken is an avid film fan and enjoys reading.

May 13, 2024

I am not a Gettysburgian but a former college counselor at Bronxville HS in Westchester County in NYS. My position allowed me to know Gail as she began her career in college admissions when she would visit the high school on a recruiting trip or whenever we would meet at college board regional conference. She displayed then, and I am sure for the entire 41 years at your school, an intelligence and a sense of integrity that made her a person that one could trust and call upon to give you a fair hearing when you presented a student seeking admission to Gettysburg. All hail to Gail and I wish her a fruitful and exciting time as she moves on to the next stage of her life.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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