Antietam National Battlefield in Baltimore, MD

Located near Baltimore, MD, the Antietam National Battlefield stands as a solemn reminder of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. As the site of the pivotal Civil War battle that took place on September 17, 1862, this hallowed ground now serves as an educational destination for visitors to learn about the events that transpired here and their impact on the course of American history. Learn more about near local attractions that you don’t want to miss if you are in the area.

The Battle of Antietam, also known as the Battle of Sharpsburg, was fought between the Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by Major General George B. McClellan, and the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, led by General Robert E. Lee. The fierce battle resulted in approximately 23,000 casualties, making it the single bloodiest day in American history.

Though the battle itself was inconclusive, it marked a significant turning point in the Civil War. The Union’s ability to halt the Confederate invasion of the North provided President Abraham Lincoln with the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared freedom for all slaves in Confederate-held territory. This announcement shifted the focus of the war from preserving the Union to abolishing slavery and had a profound impact on both domestic and international support for the Confederacy.

Today, the Antietam National Battlefield is preserved and maintained by the National Park Service. Visitors can explore the battlefield through a self-guided driving tour, which features 11 stops at key landmarks and monuments commemorating the events that unfolded during the battle. Some notable points of interest include:

• Dunker Church: This small, white church served as a focal point for several assaults during the battle and has since become an iconic symbol of the Battle of Antietam.
• Bloody Lane: Also known as the Sunken Road, this location witnessed some of the most intense fighting of the battle, with over 5,000 casualties in just a few hours.
• Burnside Bridge: Named after Union General Ambrose Burnside, this bridge was the site of a critical delay for the Union Army during their final push against the Confederates.
• Antietam National Cemetery: Established in 1867, the cemetery is the final resting place for over 4,700 Union soldiers who died at Antietam and other nearby battlefields.

In addition to the driving tour, visitors can explore the battlefield on foot through various hiking trails that traverse key areas of the park. The National Park Service also offers ranger-led programs and talks throughout the year, providing further insight into the battle and its significance.

Before embarking on your exploration of the battlefield, stop by the Antietam National Battlefield Visitor Center to gather information, maps, and resources. The visitor center also houses a museum that features exhibits on the Battle of Antietam, the Civil War, and the impact of the conflict on the local community.

Antietam National Battlefield is located at 302 E. Main Street, Sharpsburg, MD, 21782, approximately 70 miles from downtown Baltimore. The park is open daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. There is an entrance fee per vehicle, with discounted rates available for senior citizens and active military personnel.

When planning your visit, be sure to allocate enough time to explore the various landmarks and monuments throughout the battlefield. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and water are recommended, as the park covers a large area with varying terrain. 

In conclusion, the Antietam National Battlefield offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the history of the Civil War and pay tribute to the thousands of soldiers who fought and died on this hallowed ground. Through its preservation and educational resources, the Antietam National Battlefield continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for the future of our nation.