Join us on Friday, October 10 for an entertaining presentation by historian James A. Hessler on one of the most controversial Union commanders of the Civil War.

The mere mention of Dan Sickles can still provoke arguments among Gettysburg enthusiasts. Whether it was Sickles’s infamous murder of Philip Barton Key, his seeming disobedience of orders at Gettysburg, or his post-battle attempts to declare himself the “Hero of Gettysburg,” Sickles packed a lot of life into his 95 years. Hessler will explore the highs and lows of Sickles’s colorful career. Whether you love to hate Sickles or hate to love him, Hessler will discuss why Sickles remains one of the most monumental figures in the Gettysburg story.  

Hessler has served as a Licensed Battlefield Guide at Gettysburg National Military Park since 2003.  He has authored or co-authored four books on the Gettysburg campaign, including: Sickles at Gettysburg (2009), Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg (2015), and Gettysburg’s Peach Orchard (2019). His latest book, The First Day at Gettysburg, was released last spring. He has also written several articles for publication, including in Gettysburg Magazine. His published work has received several distinguished book awards.  He co-hosts the popular Battle of Gettysburg Podcast. He has made numerous media appearances including History Channel, NPR, Travel Channel, PCN-TV, and the American Battlefield Trust. He is a frequent guest speaker at Civil War Round Tables and other historical organizations. He last spoke to our Round Table in 2023 on what General Reynolds knew on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg, and when he knew it.

Those who are unable to attend this engagement in person are invited to tune in to the lecture and Q&A session via Zoom.  Click on the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89759214997.   No password in required.  To dial in by phone, call 1-301-715-8592 or click on the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcN98IAuG0. The meeting ID # is 856 0870 8456.  Zoom participants should join the meeting by 7:00 pm.

To reserve your spot for dinner, please pay using PayPal or credit card below. Reservations are due by noon on the day of the meeting.