A tribute to what is remembered as the bloodiest day of the American Civil War, the Antietam National Battlefield is today spread over 3,250 acres of farmlands, pastures and overgrowth.
Recent years have seen the battlefield transformed into one of the most picturesque and serene habitats for plant and animal life in the country, while the reconstruction of the actual battlefield to its 1862 visage, invites visitors to take a peek down memory lane. You can also view an array of exhibits at the Visitor Center, which houses two noteworthy collections, namely the Captain John Tompkins Collection comprised of the original articles of clothing donned by the Union Officer during the war and also the Henry Kyd Douglas Collection, a famous Confederate Staff officer, whose images and artifacts are displayed. You can also stop by at the Visitor Center to view a 26-minute long feature titled 'The Antietam Visit' which tells you all about the venue, as well as its awe-inspiring history.
Nature enthusiasts have plenty to feast their eyes on, with woodchucks and white-tailed deer making regular appearances at the park. Bird life also thrives aplenty with grasshopper sparrows and the red-tailed hawk gracing the park with their presence. You can also spot the occasional red fox or striped skunk... a splendid visual treat for visitors of all ages. The park is also home to a variety of snakes, although no poisonous ones have been sighted as of yet.
Children between the ages of 6 and 12 can get a complimentary activity book at the Visitor Center, and also earn themselves a badge and certificate at the end of their visit. The Antietam National Battlefield is open to visitors from 8 am to 7 pm, all through the week in the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day and from 8:30 am to 5 pm, during the rest of the year.
For further information, you can refer to the website http://www.nps.gov or call the Information Desk at (301) 432-5124.
The Antietam National Battlefield
P.O. Box 158
Sharpsburg, MD 21782
