12 miles from Pine Ridge
Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum
Civil War Tails presents the Battle of Gettysburg through elaborate dioramas featuring over 11,000 hand-painted cat figures. This quirky museum makes history accessible and engaging for all ages.
20 minutes drive from Pine Ridge Campground
Why Pine Ridge Campers Love It
Getting There
Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum
785 Baltimore Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325
Directions from Pine Ridge
From Pine Ridge, head south on Route 34 to Gettysburg. The museum is on Baltimore Street, south of downtown.
All distances measured from Pine Ridge Campground, 2635 Shippensburg Rd, Biglerville, PA
About Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum
Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum offers one of Gettysburg's most unique experiences: the entire Battle of Gettysburg recreated through elaborate dioramas featuring over 11,000 hand-painted cat figures. What sounds whimsical proves surprisingly educational and deeply engaging for visitors of all ages.
Twin sisters Rebecca and Ruth Brown spent over 25 years creating these incredible scenes. Each cat figure is individually painted to represent Union or Confederate soldiers, complete with historically accurate uniforms, weapons, and equipment. The dioramas depict key battle moments with remarkable attention to terrain, troop positions, and historical accuracy.
The result is history made accessible. Visitors who might find traditional battlefield interpretation overwhelming discover that watching cat armies clash makes the complex three-day battle understandable. Children especially connect with the presentation, learning Civil War history while delighted by the creative approach.
Major dioramas include Pickett's Charge, Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, and other pivotal moments. Each scene includes detailed interpretation explaining what's being depicted and why it mattered. The creators' research and historical accuracy have earned praise from serious Civil War historians.
The museum occupies a historic homestead building that adds its own charm to the experience. For Pine Ridge campers with families, Civil War Tails provides a perfect complement to more traditional battlefield touring - making complex history engaging for everyone.
What to Expect
- Incredible Dioramas: Over 11,000 hand-painted cat figures recreate major Battle of Gettysburg scenes with remarkable historical accuracy and attention to detail.
- Family-Friendly Learning: The creative approach makes complex Civil War history accessible and engaging for children while remaining historically accurate for adult visitors.
- 25 Years of Craftsmanship: Twin sisters Rebecca and Ruth Brown created these scenes over decades, with each figure individually painted and positioned.
- Historic Homestead: The museum occupies a charming historic building that adds atmosphere to the unique experience.
Insider Tips from Pine Ridge Campers
- 1Great for rainy days or breaks from outdoor touring
- 2Children love the cat figures and learn real history
- 3Take time to appreciate the incredible detail
- 4The gift shop has unique cat-themed Civil War items
- 5Perfect complement to traditional battlefield visits
Visitor Information
Hours
Thursday-Monday: 10 AM - 5 PM (seasonal variations)
Cost
$8.75 adults, $5.50 children 6-12, under 6 free
Phone
(717) 338-9568Website
Visit Official SiteSeasonal Notes
Open year-round with possible seasonal hour adjustments. Check website for current schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a serious history museum?
Yes! Despite the whimsical medium, the dioramas are historically accurate and created with extensive research. Many Civil War historians have praised the attention to detail.
Why cats?
The Brown sisters are cat lovers who found that feline figures made the complex battle more approachable. The cats wear accurate uniforms and carry correct equipment for their units.
What age is this appropriate for?
All ages! Young children love the cats while learning history, and adults appreciate the incredible craftsmanship and historical accuracy.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 45-60 minutes exploring the dioramas. Those interested in Civil War history may want longer to study the details.
Your Adventure Base Camp Awaits
With Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum just 20 minutes away, Pine Ridge Campground is the perfect base for your next adventure. Explore all day, then return to the comfort of your seasonal site.