Antietam National Battlefield

Site of the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War.

Known as the bloodiest day in American History, the Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, left hallowed ground still widely visited today.  Explore the Visitors Center and battleground to learn more about the soldiers who bravely fought and died that fateful day.  Learn about the circumstances leading up to the battle and the legacy it left for all Americans.

The National Park, located in Sharpsburg, Maryland, includes ten short, paved trails visitors can walk or bike to enjoy the entire historic battlefield.  Although not too difficult, the trails can be hilly, so the park recommends hikers wear good, comfortable shoes and they stay on the trails.

Try to schedule your visit to include an informative interpretive talk given by the many knowledgeable rangers who work at the Park. 

The Visitors Center offers an informative 26 minute film, describing the battle of Antietam.  The Visitors Center also has displays of photographs and Civil War era artifacts along with a gift shop filled with books and souvenirs.

Adjacent to the Antietam National Battlefield lies the Antietam National Cemetery.  Here lies the bodies of those that died that dreadful day.  Memorial Day is a wonderful time to pay your respects and visit the cemetery and join in the Memorial Day commemorations held there.  Local students place flags in front of every grave of these never to be forgotten American heroes.

Be sure to also visit the nearby Newcomer House and the Pry House Field Hospital Museum.  These museums help visitors understand the local residents of the area during the war and how it impacted them.