Eyewitness to The Wheatfield, Plus a Celebrity Sighting!: Gettysburg 160

The Wheatfield at Gettysburg was a hellish landscape. Union and Confederate soldiers from Pennsylvania, Maine, New York, Georgia, South Carolina, and other states struggled in a chaotic seesaw action for hours. The once nondescript wheatfield of George Rose laid trampled and bloody.
Join Garry Adelman, Kris White, and Sarah Kay Bierle from the American Battlefield Trust as they bring you eyewitness accounts from the battlefield. They're joined by a special, an unexpected guest, actor and preservationist, Steve Zahn!
The American Battlefield Trust preserves America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educates the public about what happened there and why it matters. We permanently protect these battlefields for future generations as a lasting and tangible memorial to the brave soldiers who fought in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War.

[@AmericanBattlefieldTrust]

This video is age restricted due to the use of photos of fallen soldiers. We stand by our belief that these images add educational value to the importance of Gettysburg and to the sacrifice that the soldiers made there.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Can’t say that I’m the biggest fan of KZbin’s less than charitable use of the age restriction.

[@joshh8245]

Absolutely. Totally agree. Not showing the fallen soldiers would be to omit an important part of the history. KZbin needs to stop playing censor. If people don't want to see the full history no matter how uncomfortable it might be then they just shouldn't watch it. Doesn't mean it should be age restricted to make it hard for the rest of us history buffs to find it.

[@pimhoff]

Don’t cave to insanity

[@cyndiebill6631]

This makes me so angry. This is history and it really happened. I will never understand why they do this. I totally support you and anything you use to make history real for everyone. If parents don’t want their kids to see this let them be the judge not KZbin. I love everything you put out there. Keep doing what you do. ♥️👍

[@bluescatreimer]

KZbin has gotten ridiculous.

[@peterbrown1208]

J. D. Told us to check this out because KZbin has stifled history. This video was thoughtful, thorough and respectful. Well done you three. I do wish that somehow, someone, could slow Gary down. I'm exhausted! Well done.

[@piedpiper8355]

Just saw JD's short video about this one. It brought me here too.

[@charlesbishop818]

Here because JD recommended it. No regrets. Great content.

[@ThreeZeroOne]

Thank you so very, very much Kris for your closing remarks 💯👍✌️❤️

[@davefernandez3451]

You guys do an incredible job keeping history alive for future generations. Keep up the outstanduing work. Thank You!!!

[@heynowls3058]

Steve Zahn! Awesome. Big fan, big fan…. Well done Garry.

[@JDDupuy]

The fallen soldiers are the price of freedom. In this case the fact that this country tore itself apart for a core value. Most kid graduating don't know anything about the civil war. It's a shame that we do not teach the History of this country! Thank You for what you do. The History Underground "JD" sent me here. New Sub also.

[@Tustyshellback2010]

This was a great video it’s a shame that KZbin age restricted it. This world is getting more insane by the day.

[@davidbowman4259]

Indeed. And it will get even more insane if the orange fascists take over.

[@michaeldouglas1243]

Kris's recap and accounts at rhe end of this episode was very deep. Especially describing how senseless war really is. I feel that really hits home for all us military history lovers.

[@Mis-AdventureCH]

My grt-grt grandfather was at the Wheatfield. 17th maine. He was 16 years old. Drummer, detailed to carry wounded. I went there and had a pretty profound, troubling few moments.

[@Rowehouse1819]

My great grandfather was with the 11th Georgia Co H ..fighting against the 17th Main. against yours . Small world

[@Mis-AdventureCH]

@@Rowehouse1819 I walked into the woods where the GA boys were. You could feel it. Went a bit and a branch hit my face. Thought nothing of it. Then I went further and really got nailed good. Mind you, I wasn't running, there was no one walking in front of me...nothing could have pulled a branch back and released it into my face. Knocked my glasses off and left a mark. "These is our woods, yankee. Go on back to your wall." very plainly, sternly. Not a sound or a voice, but an intrusive thought that wasn't mine. I went back to the wall. Then another thought, "Damnedest fight I was ever in. They just didn't want to come up off this wall." If you make it to G'burg go visit. They're still there.

[@Rowehouse1819]

@Mis-AdventureCH thanks for sharing your experience. I have been there many times. I own a air b on east high street so I go there all times of years. It's really puts it in perspective when it's fall and less vegetation. You can see a lot farther into the woods as of this time of year. I'll be there July 6 for house buisness and you can bet I'll be there in those woods. You are right, they are still there

[@Mis-AdventureCH]

@@Rowehouse1819 Same visit I walked onto the spot where the war stopped being a "Boys adventure" for my grt-grandfather. About halfway up the hill to the battery. Things were revealed. He had been carrying someone. It was pretty disconcerting. And yes, I was there during full foliage, so those woods are closed in on you. PS- I'm not a crazy person. I do EMS, so I know what real crazy is about. This wasn't that.

[@Rowehouse1819]

@Mis-AdventureCH I sent think your crazy. Amazing 160 years ago today our family was shooting at each other

[@jabulanirichards6900]

Here because History Underground sent me! This is amazing, great content

[@jeansalutz8422]

Thanks to JD for telling us where to find this!

[@FantsyPants]

The History Underground sent me here and am thankful for it.

[@cocofirenze]

As always, an incredible video. When I saw the title, I DID NOT expect Steve Zahn. And he's one of us ABT'ers! He was so hyped - him having his ABT cap on while visiting the park, NOT KNOWING he'd run into the crew was awesome! And the part about the one-way roads - we've all been there!

[@dorothywillis1]

My great-great-grandfather was in the 64th NY and was captured in the Wheatfield. I don't think your video needs to be restricted.

[@missmissy2490]

Brilliant. I cannot thank you all enough. Garry, Kris, and Sarah you are national treasures.

[@b.o.4492]

History Underground told me about this. Wasn’t showing up in my feed so here I am. Please don’t change. We’ll find it.

[@terrirobinson3876]

JD sent me. Great presentation.

[@kurtbaker4078]

Very well done. Thank you (JD sent me)

[@williammclaughlin5629]

Guys…good job! There is passion behind your battle descriptions and your readings from witnesses of 2 July 1863. Please take a deep breath and let it out slowly. Don’t let a couple of earlier disparaging comments throw you off course. Thanks for bringing me the details of The Wheatfield. Gettysburg is my favorite Civil War battlefield. Bill McLaughlin, LTC, US Army (Ret)

[@astridgalactic9336]

Kris, your piece at the end was such an honorable, sad and beautiful tribute. It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.

[@CrossTrain]

Wow. Strong. Really strong work Kris, Sarah & Garry. Wow. Poignant...

[@lizlittle1641]

That's how Garry stays in shape, walking around.

[@standingstone4455]

JD sent me here. Thank you

[@witchmouth]

Wonderfully scripted and presented. It's a unique experience to be led through the parts of the battle while being shown where it all happened. Thank you to ABT, and also to JD from The History Underground for letting me know about this!

[@RealityOrganized]

Well done, always helps when you tell us which way the camera is facing!

[@scottscottsdale7868]

You have out done yourselves. Thank you.

[@bobbyblizzard8488]

Great video!

[@skimmer8774]

I'm recommending my grandkids and my kids watch this. I believe if more people knew how the Civil war affected our country, more people would appreciate it. JDs short brought me here. 😊

[@PeppieP]

You people do an amazing job of ensuring that this is never forgotten. War is a terrible thing, people die and this is something that should not be forgotten. No matter how some places may want to scrub it out of existence, we must show the horrors of war in order that we might learn. Thank you for this.

[@ponylove882]

I was distracted by keeping track of Garry's two hats, and noticing when he switches wearing them.

[@joeritchie4554]

Such horrific carnage on both sides. I agree with you 1000% that war is the stupidest thing you can do.

[@seanthepope9289]

Thanks for showing real history

[@leonidaslantz5249]

Sarah covered the story of Stanley Abbott so well,wowza; outstanding work!

[@johnnystir9796]

Loved Kris's editorial comments at the end. I 100 percent agree about war.

[@uglysteve1]

History dude sent me.😊Steve

[@WWIIBuff]

History Underground recommended this video. Well done!

[@TXyellowRose]

JD sent me…👍 new subscriber

[@JMCAragorn]

I'm here via recommendation from JD, History Underground. ✅

[@brucebenson9651]

Great video! Thank you for sharing the personal stories of those fallen! Lest we forget their memories. May their memories a blessing to our American story.

[@auntiear126]

Your video today does honour to those who battled 160 years ago.

[@Timdalf1]

One of your most moving videos... My grt grandfather was in an artillery battery just north of the Wheatfield... thank you so much. And for the very helpful compass direction subtitles. Superb work.

[@swtexan6502]

JD from History Underground said that I just had to watch this video!

[@robp7785]

JD recommended watching this video - excellent program - keep up the great work - love all your content!

[@mikestacyemett5914]

Steve zahn! Steve zahn!

[@jalratke]

History traveler sent me!

[@snodrog5]

The "other" Maine units at Gettysburg deserve their own Hollywood movie.

[@bradleyc8414]

Sarah rocks! 👊🏼🤠

[@johnmartin6804]

Good history video. Don't let us forget are history.

[@davidarmstrong6313]

Tremendous video! Thanks so much!

[@les3d50]

Awesome, so complex, I never understood this part of the battle until now, thank you for breaking it down and providing a soldier’s perspective as well. Thanks again Les L

[@ReadingAde]

Dude! That was awesome. Steve Zahn is a great guy

[@nathanaelhernandez3790]

History Underground sent me

[@vawterb]

Excellent video, thank you. JD sent me, too.

[@paulmellon7598]

Like several others, I saw JD's short and clicked through to add a like to my existing sub. I'm from the UK, and the 101 year old BBC's values remain to this day: our mission is "to act in the public interest, serving all audiences through the provision of impartial, high-quality and distinctive output and services which inform, educate and entertain". KZbin is 18 years old. It shows ...

[@tallboy2234]

JD has a short telling of the importance and meaning of this fine video. My own reading of the civil war era is from the Great Historians, Bruce Catton and Shelby Foote. I love their story-telling and behind the scenes of the men in action at the various places. Your history of this battle is stirring. I Love to hear your story of this battle! 😮😳👏👏

[@ret4350]

Thanks. What a great account.

[@davidbeal8054]

I always enjoy Gary and Chris. They're great. But, ...___ WOW! ---- Sarah Kay Bierly is always wonderful.. As I've said elsewhere .... "If I was only 35 years younger."

[@johnellis6959]

Dude, I loved him in Sahara. 👊

[@marybethstramaglia8232]

GREAT STUFF!!

[@akacadian3714]

Great video US 17th Infantry (17 IN) is one the last US Infantry Regiments to fight on US soil at the Battle of Attu (Alaska) in May 1943. "Truth and Courage" the 17th is now known as "The Buffaloes" from a thier Radio Call Sign during the withdraw from the Yalu during the Koran War.

[@christontz9034]

JD sent me here but I love your content and already subscribe. Somehow missed this but watching it now. Keep up the great work!

[@AmericanBattlefieldTrust]

Thanks and welcome!

[@neindanke3916]

I knew nothing of the Wheat Field when we went down there at Gettysburg. I felt an oppressive heaviness, which was terribly depressing, and I needed to get out of there. Later I found out it was the place where a lot of men had been shot and died.

[@abbynormal4740]

Thank you for your excellent content. Here at J.D.'s recommendation and subscribed. 👍

[@tombuchmann8248]

Gary.... you're awesome. Love the passion.

[@fredrickszahowski6154]

Outstanding and well done , ɓy the way gas anyone know how many times the Wheatfield was taken by both opponents!!!!

[@tomr1630]

My Great Great Grandfather with the 8th NJ fought in the Wheatfield.

[@johnzajac9849]

Today, we walked near the Lewis house on the crest of the ridge, where the 17th is indicated to have been on the map in the video. Had we been there on 1 May 1863, Lt. Abbott would have been with the 17th, only tens of yards away to the north of the Lewis house. He would have been moving and firing toward the rebels located on the Leitch house ridge about 450 yards to the east. Next time we walk there, we will imagine seeing brave Lt. Edward Stanley Abbott advancing with the 17th.

[@corrie20679]

JD sent me ❤

[@robertschultz6922]

I REALLY wish there was more done on the regular army during the civil war especially Gettysburg. I used to be a reenactor in the2nd us infantry that fought in the wheat field but they is literally nothing to study about them!!

[@markfanara9493]

JD sent me

[@MatinAmerica]

Outstanding jobs, all of you. Thank you for this.

[@iankerridge5720]

Watching this, and have subscribed to this channel thanks to a short from JD of The History Underground. "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it". KZbin are totally out of order in age restricting this video. It should be lauded for telling war history as it is, rather than sanitized

[@mt4design2]

Here by recommendation because, for some reason, KZbin feels it’s proper to suppress history. I visited this area and saw these historical photos as a child back in the 70s. What has changed in our nation? Appreciate your video and subscribed.

[@deborahgibson9039]

Wow, great video! So much detail I did not know! I just passed through that area of the battlefield today. My cousin was with me, as she was never on the battlefield. Btw, Garry, it's very interesting to learn that you are vegan....so am I!

[@davegoodridge8352]

This is an outstanding video!

[@tommcdonald1873]

I had the honor to hold Cross' field Navy Colt and his field sword he possessed when he fell at Rose's Woods. The Lancaster NH Historical Society has them in their possession.

[@corydavis617]

One question that has always been in my mind and have never asked- how much of the wheat field, still produces that same wheat that was growing in the 1860s?

[@erineveleth9300]

PVT James Johnston of the 4th Michigan Infantry Co. K from Shiawassee County was shot 7 times & buried in the west side of the wheatfield by a large rock, He was from Shiawassee Township

[@davidwaddell9772]

Amazing. Thank you for sharing.

[@user-pi5fy1di8x]

JD of the History Underground prodded me to check out this video. I cannot see anything objectionable about it. Gary, Kris and Sara did a wonderful job as usual and it deserves to be seen by everyone, If one cannot see the results of history (death and destruction) one cannot make informed decisions about their life and the ballot box. War must be the completely last resort and, even then, it is unalterably stupid and tragic. When one can follow the history of our country, such as in these types of videos, they will see the futility of violence. Thanks again, American Battlefield Trust for all you do.

[@joemabry9643]

Thank you!

[@thenebbish7709]

Steve was also spotted recently shopping in Lancaster

[@ewathoughts8476]

So many people commenting cannot read or understand what they read it seems. The Notice says "Age-restricted video (requested by uploader)". That means ABT placed the video on Age Restriction, not KZbin.

[@MarquisVegan]

Shoutout to Gary from a fellow vegan! 💯

[@couthon]

More Steve Zahn!

[@Bearlake1624]

Great video …I wish they could on videos on the ground views they could overlay the movements of visual representations of the men moving across the terrain during the battles

[@w.charlesyoung2653]

Unfortunately, Col. Beaver was not upset with Cross as he was not there. He had been wounded at Chancellorsville and was recovering as the commander of Camp Curtin during the Gettysburg Campaign. Lt. Col. Robert McFarlane commanded the 148th and Cross was absolutely correct in keeping the 148th close…too inexperienced.

[@LittleAnastasia...]

Apparently Dan Sickles is one of my distant cousins .

[@Wreckdiver59]

Yep, I need to loop this video for the next several days just to jack up the views. I think I'm on about four so far 😅

[@charlesmckinley29]

Here to protest the idiocy of YT age restricting history.

[@patmoritz5213]

👍🏼

[@jorgemartinpaez4376]

The US regulars Inf regts are units from the standing army or recruited newer troops? very fascinating

[@jorgemartinpaez4376]

148th Pa vol Inf, Beavers regt? very fascinating!

[@k.p.1139]

Yes, the war brought so much pain for many. While growing up, I never knew what the name of one Grandfather was. His name had been erased from the lips of the family. One grandfather fighting for the south and married to my grandmother Sarah. Her father, Seaborn chose to take the side of the Union, after being drafted into the Confederates. He fought 2 years, and while at home, on leave- from the Union, was executed by the confederates, according to a letter written by his wife. She said Seaborn and the boys were shot under the tree. His niece, Nebraska wrote this, and as far as we know, this along with the note from his wife Annie, is all that was ever mentioned of him again. Nebraska Lastinger "I will try to explain what Detail meant. During the Civil War the soldiers would come home without furlow; they were called deserters. The Details were a Company of men too old to serve in the army. Their duty was to find deserters and send them back to the army. For a deserter’s third offence he was to be shot by a squad of the details appointed by the higher officers. Uncle Seaborn was shot at sunrise. He was blindfolded standing on his knees by a large pine tree. My father took it hard, and recorded it in his record this way: (Shot by those damned men called Details).”

[@ldg1030]

Does Garry wear a fitbit or some other step counter?

[@TM-vq1bf]

What did Longstreet say about the wheat field

[@jorgemartinpaez4376]

ZOOK a former Newspaper editor, with the 5th NH vol Inf, He was a a rough character!

[@jorgemartinpaez4376]

This interesante the orders to change front by the right flank! Im confused but this battlefield is intriguing , to restore the regt under fire?

[@ReadingAde]

How do you all film these videos, insert maps and images and upload within minutes??

[@AmericanBattlefieldTrust]

This was pre-shot and edited.

[@ReadingAde]

@@AmericanBattlefieldTrust ah ok. It’s still magnificent work!