Brian Farm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Brian Farm |
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1904 map depicting the Brian Farm (lower left "Bryan") with the Emmitsburg Rd "Y [wye] of the trolly" (dashed), which had a right-of-way through the farm.
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| Type | American Civil War site |
| Location | Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania |
| Area | 12 acres (4.9 ha) |
| Elevation | 603.5 ft (183.9 m) |
The Brian Farm is an important place on the Gettysburg Battlefield from the American Civil War. It was a key location during Pickett's Charge, a famous attack in the battle. Today, the farm's buildings, stone wall, and a special marker are recognized as historic structures. After the war, the farm was even used for army training camps, like Camp Colt, Pennsylvania.
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The Brian Farm: A Civil War Story
The Brian Farm holds many stories from the past. It was once owned by a free Black man named Abraham Brian. His farm became a central point during one of the most important battles in American history.
Who Owned the Farm?
Abraham Brian, often called Bryan, bought this farm in 1857. It was located just south of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His farm also included another house along the Emmitsburg Road. Before the big battle, Abraham Brian and other Black residents left the area. They wanted to avoid being captured and forced into slavery.
The Battle at the Farm
During the Battle of Gettysburg, Union soldiers were positioned around the Bryan House and barn. Confederate troops from Mississippi attacked these positions. This intense fighting was part of Pickett's Charge, a major Confederate assault.
After the Smoke Cleared
The farm suffered a lot of damage after the battle. The house walls were full of bullet holes, and windows were broken. Inside, furniture was thrown around. Outside, the farm fences were gone, crops were ruined, and the fruit trees were damaged.
Abraham Brian asked the government for money to cover the damage. He claimed $1,028, but only received $15 for the damage caused by Union troops. He sold the farm in 1869.
Later, the farm house was changed. A second floor was added. Around 1950, the original two-story house was taken down. A new one-story building, made to look like the Civil War-era structure, was built in its place.
Remembering the Past
The Brian Farm is remembered in many ways. The famous 1883 Gettysburg Cyclorama, a huge circular painting, shows an image of the house.
Today, you can find several monuments on the farm land. These include the
111th New York Infantry Monument and the
11th Mississippi Infantry Marker. There is also a pine tree and marker remembering Camp Colt.
The Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association once owned a path through the farm. They built a carriage road between the house and barn. This road is now known as Hancock Avenue. It was paved around the time the land was given to the War Department.
