13 miles from Pine Ridge
Jennie Wade House
Mary Virginia "Jennie" Wade was the only civilian killed during the Battle of Gettysburg when a stray bullet passed through two doors as she baked bread. Her house is now a moving museum.
22 minutes drive from Pine Ridge Campground
Why Pine Ridge Campers Love It
Getting There
Jennie Wade House
548 Baltimore Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325
Directions from Pine Ridge
From Pine Ridge, head south on Route 34 to Gettysburg. The Jennie Wade House is on Baltimore Street, south of the town square.
All distances measured from Pine Ridge Campground, 2635 Shippensburg Rd, Biglerville, PA
About Jennie Wade House
The Jennie Wade House stands as Gettysburg's most poignant reminder of the battle's human cost. On July 3, 1863, twenty-year-old Mary Virginia "Jennie" Wade was baking bread for Union soldiers when a stray Confederate bullet passed through two wooden doors and struck her in the back, killing her instantly. She remains the only civilian killed during the three-day battle.
Today, the modest brick house serves as a museum honoring Jennie's memory and telling the story of civilians caught in the crossfire. The original doors with bullet holes remain, showing the trajectory that claimed her life. Guides share the story of that fateful morning, Jennie's devotion to the Union cause, and the grief that followed.
The house itself reflects a typical working-class Gettysburg home of the 1860s. Jennie was actually visiting her sister Georgia, who had just given birth, when the battle began. Rather than flee, Jennie stayed to help, baking bread to feed hungry soldiers even as bullets flew outside. Her selfless courage makes her story especially moving.
The museum displays artifacts related to Jennie and the Wade family, including personal items and period furnishings. The cellar where the family sheltered during the worst fighting is accessible, providing a tangible sense of what civilians experienced during the battle.
For Pine Ridge campers exploring Civil War history, Jennie Wade House offers a different perspective from battlefield monuments - the personal tragedy of war touching an ordinary family.
What to Expect
- The Bullet Holes: The original wooden doors showing the bullet's trajectory through two walls are preserved, providing visceral evidence of that tragic moment.
- Jennie's Story: Guides share the complete story of Jennie's life, her devotion to the Union cause, and the circumstances of her death while baking bread for soldiers.
- Civilian Experience: The house and cellar illustrate what ordinary Gettysburg families experienced during three days of intense fighting around their homes.
- Personal Artifacts: The museum displays items connected to Jennie and the Wade family, making the history personal and immediate.
Insider Tips from Pine Ridge Campers
- 1Tours are guided and run regularly throughout the day
- 2The story is moving - bring tissues
- 3Combine with nearby battlefield sites
- 4Evening ghost tours offer a different perspective
- 5The gift shop has unique Civil War items
Visitor Information
Hours
Daily 9 AM - 5 PM (seasonal variations)
Cost
$10 adults, $6 children 6-12
Phone
(717) 334-4100Website
Visit Official SiteSeasonal Notes
Open year-round with possible reduced winter hours. Summer and fall are busiest. Evening ghost tours available seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the house haunted?
Many believe so! The house is considered one of Gettysburg's most haunted locations. Evening ghost tours explore the paranormal history.
Are the original bullet holes visible?
Yes, the original doors with bullet holes are preserved and clearly marked, showing exactly how the fatal shot traveled through the house.
Is this appropriate for children?
The story is sad but told respectfully. Most children over 6 handle it well, though parents should use judgment based on their child's sensitivity.
How long does a tour take?
Tours last approximately 30 minutes. Allow additional time for the gift shop if interested.
Your Adventure Base Camp Awaits
With Jennie Wade House just 22 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.