Dear Friends,

For some of you, the concept of living in a ‘civilian town’ is not new—if you participated in BGA events at Raymond, Shiloh, or Twin Rivers, you know how we operate.  For others, this is a new concept.  We hope you will enjoy the adventure as much as others have. 

Historically, Gettysburg was a small farming town, full of farmers and tradesmen, men, women, and children going about their daily lives.  With little warning, the War rolled right over them.  We are going to do our best to portray those conditions, with the knowledge that canvas tents are not brick homes. You are encouraged to plan to go about your normal 1863 life—until it’s interrupted by War.

Please read the articles linked to the right carefully—a lot of your questions will be answered there.  Make sure you can comply with the guidelines.  I’m very grateful to Sally Ryan and Kimberlee Bruce for writing these guidelines and articles.

Then, if you’d like to be a part of this, apply to be a Citizen of the Town.   You will do that by emailing us at BGAperiodtown@earthlink.net

Give us your name and contact information.  Tell us what you plan to do at this event, any special demonstrations or talents you have.  Attach a picture.  If you are applying for your group, list all group members and send their picture too. Tell us the type of tentage you have, especially if you have a group.  If you participated in one of our previous Towns, or in the Living History Village at Perryville, tell us that as well. 

You will hear back from us shortly, with an approval or suggestions for improvement.

We also have a Facebook group:  Blue Gray Alliance Civilian Towns.  The administrators will be glad to answer questions or make suggestions to help you.

 Our space is limited and we will not be able to accommodate all applicants.  The BGA does make provision for military/family camping and you will be able to camp there if the Town cannot accommodate you.

Looking Forward…..To Living in the Past

Terre Lawson, Civilian Governor, Blue Gray Alliance

Robert Orrand, Burgess, Town of Gettysburg