There is something undeniably magical about filming in a historic town. The streets are not just streets—they are pathways through time. Every brick, every weathered doorway, every iron gate whispers the stories of those who came before us. When a film crew steps into such a place, it is as if history itself opens its arms to embrace the art of storytelling.
Unlike sterile sets or digital recreations, historic towns carry an authenticity that no camera trick can replicate. Sunlight spilling across the streets, the echo of footsteps in narrow alleys, the grandeur of preserved architecture—these elements breathe life into a scene, grounding the story in something tangible, real, and deeply human.
For filmmakers, a historic town is never just a backdrop—it becomes a character in its own right. The walls hold emotion, the landscapes speak, and the setting demands that actors, directors, and audiences alike honor the spirit of this hallowed ground. When a love story unfolds beneath the shadow of a centuries-old church, or a dramatic confrontation takes place on a battlefield-turned-town street, the weight of history intensifies every frame.
This October, history and cinema will meet again. From Oct. 9 through Oct. 14, Baltimore Street between Breckenridge and South Street will be transformed back to the 1860s for the filming of Gettysburg 1863—complete with dirt roads, horse-drawn carriages, and powerful reenactment scenes.
Gettysburg 1863 is a poignant Civil War drama set in the emotional aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg. The story follows the Kelly family—Rebecca and her three daughters—as they navigate profound loss, quiet resilience, and unexpected acts of grace in the days leading up to Christmas.
The film opens in 1861 with a tender goodbye between Hannah Kelly and her beloved, Thomas McClean, who leaves for war full of hope. But as the conflict drags on and bloodshed reaches their doorstep, optimism fades. By December of 1863, Gettysburg is no longer just a name—it is a wound. The Kelly home, scarred by battle, becomes a mirror of the town itself: broken, yet enduring. Rebecca, the steadfast mother, holds her daughters together—pragmatic Sarah, innocent Adeline, and grief-stricken Hannah, who learns Thomas has gone missing after a skirmish in Virginia. Against the backdrop of devastation, the family clings to faith, hope, and the fragile possibility of healing.
Community Impact
During this time, Baltimore Street between Breckenridge and South Street only will be closed to vehicles. Sidewalks on the east side will remain open for pedestrians, all crosswalks at Breckenridge and South Street will remain open, and emergency services will always have access. Residents on this one block closure may continue to use alleys for entry.
Clean-up of the 1860s set will begin immediately after filming, with Baltimore Street reopening by Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 6 a.m.
On behalf of the Gettysburg Film Commission, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our town—residents, businesses, and visitors alike—for your patience and support. We understand that road closures are never convenient, especially during Gettysburg’s bustling fall season. Yet we believe that this brief disruption will bring lasting rewards for our community. Just as the 1993 release of Gettysburg sparked decades of renewed tourism and economic growth, we hope Gettysburg 1863 will inspire future generations to walk our streets, share in our history, and strengthen our economy for years to come.
Together, we are not only preserving history—we are bringing it to life. Frame by frame, story by story, Gettysburg’s legacy endures.
Kris Webb is co-founder/film commissioner of Gettysburg Film Commission and administrator for Cinema Under the Stars, GFC’s community outreach event. Visit us at gettysburgfilmcommission.org.
