Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is synonymous with the American Civil War thanks to its legendary battlefield, which remains a popular tourist attraction today. But not everyone who visits the area comes to pay their respects.
On August 21, the U.S. National Park Service released a statement detailing two separate incidents of vandalism reported at Gettysburg National Military Park in the past week. According to the report, multiple boulders on Little Round Top were found covered in graffiti on August 15. On August 19, visitors noticed that the historic Oak Ridge Observatory had been similarly spray-painted with graffiti. Both were promptly cleaned up by park staff.
“We were heartbroken when these two incidents of vandalism were reported just days apart. We feared the graffiti carved into the rock might be there for future generations,” said park director Kristina Heister. “I am so grateful to our amazing conservation team who quickly and expertly restored these areas so visitors can continue to experience them as they were intended. They are truly the heroes of this sacred site!”
“We can’t do this alone,” he added. “The vandalism of irreplaceable historical objects and structures that belong to all Americans should be a concern for everyone. We all share the responsibility to protect and care for this special place, and each person is a steward of Gettysburg’s heritage, history and resources during their visit.”
If you plan to explore the area yourself, just make sure to be respectful of the land and its history.
