The Ghost of Jennie Wade

Born on May 21, 1843, in Gettysburg, Jennie Wade was a 20-year-old seamstress living with her mother, Mary, and sister, Georgia. As the Civil War raged on, Gettysburg found itself caught in the midst of the conflict. On July 1, 1863, as the Battle of Gettysburg commenced, Jennie Wade's life would take an unfortunate turn.

Seeking safety, Jennie had been staying at her sister's house on Baltimore Street, which was located close to the battlefield. Tragically, while baking bread for Union soldiers, a stray bullet pierced the door and struck her, resulting in her death. Jennie Wade became the only civilian killed during the three-day battle.

Following her untimely demise, rumors began to circulate about Jennie Wade's ghostly presence in her former residence on Baltimore Street. The house, now known as the Jennie Wade House, has become a significant landmark in Gettysburg due to its paranormal reputation.

Many visitors and paranormal enthusiasts claim to have encountered Jennie Wade's ghostly apparition within the house. Reports describe sightings of a young woman in a long dress, believed to be Jennie, walking through rooms and hallways, as well as the distinct scent of freshly baked bread, reminiscent of her final act. Some visitors have even reported hearing soft footsteps and disembodied voices whispering her name.

Numerous paranormal investigators and ghost enthusiasts have explored the Jennie Wade House in search of evidence supporting the claims of Jennie Wade's ghostly presence. Some have captured intriguing photographs showing unexplained orbs or mists, while others have recorded electronic voice phenomena (EVPs) of whispered voices and phantom footsteps.

Psychic mediums and sensitive individuals have also reported experiencing intense emotions, sudden temperature drops, and a feeling of being watched while inside the house. These accounts contribute to the growing belief that Jennie Wade's spirit continues to reside within the home where she met her tragic fate.

Jennie Wade's story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact that war has on civilian lives. Her tragic death symbolizes the innocent casualties that often accompany armed conflicts. While she did not actively participate in the war, her memory lives on as a symbol of the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period in American history.

The Jennie Wade House, now a museum, offers visitors a glimpse into the life and final moments of Jennie Wade. Guided tours provide historical context, recounting the events leading to her death and showcasing the preserved rooms as they would have appeared during her time. The museum pays tribute to Jennie Wade's memory and honors the civilian experience of the Battle of Gettysburg.

The haunted reputation of the Jennie Wade House adds a layer of intrigue and fascination to the story of Jennie Wade. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, the enduring tales of her ghostly presence evoke a sense of wonder and curiousity when it comes to death and the afterlife.

If you would like to hear more about Jennie Wade and her ghost, we highly recommend that you join us for a Ghost Tour in Gettysburg while you're in town. Not only will you hear about the history of the Battle that took Jennie's life, you'll also get to meet the other ghosts that call Gettysburg home.