In this special Women's History Month episode, host Sydney Harris-White explores a lesser-known side of Gettysburg, one that reaches beyond battlefields, generals, and troop movements to uncover the stories of the women who lived through one of the most defining moments in American history. Joined by historian Tim Smith of Gettysburg History and the Adams County Historical Society and Abbie Hoffman of the Shriver House Museum, the conversation highlights the civilians who found war at their doorstep and were forced to navigate fear, loss, and uncertainty almost overnight.
Through the stories of women like Hettie Shriver, who fled her home with her young daughters as the battle unfolded, Sallie Myers, who cared for wounded soldiers and comforted dying men far from their families, Julia Jacobs, who risked her life to warn Union soldiers of Confederate sharpshooters, and Elizabeth Thorn, who buried the dead while five months pregnant, we begin to see Gettysburg through a different lens. Their courage, resilience, and quiet leadership helped sustain their community during and after the battle, reminding us that as we approach America’s 250th anniversary, Pennsylvania’s story is not only one of soldiers and strategy but also of the women who carried the weight of war in their homes, their hands, and their hearts.
*This episode contains discussions of war, combat, violence, and loss related to the Battle of Gettysburg and its aftermath. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those who may find these themes emotionally difficult.*
