The Battle of Gettysburg, fought in July 1863, was a pivotal moment in the American Civil War. It was a bloody and brutal affair, with casualties numbering in the tens of thousands. Amidst the chaos and carnage, one young woman’s story stands out: Jennie Wade, a 20-year-old resident of Gettysburg, became the only civilian killed during the battle. But how did Jennie Wade die? Let’s take a closer look at the circumstances surrounding her tragic death.
Life in Gettysburg Before the Battle
Jennie Wade, born Mary Virginia Wade on May 21, 1843, lived a simple life in Gettysburg. She worked as a seamstress, helping to support her family. Like many others in the town, Jennie’s life was disrupted when the Civil War broke out. In the summer of 1863, Gettysburg became the unexpected stage for a major battle between the Union and Confederate armies.
The Battle of Gettysburg and Jennie Wade’s Death
On July 1, 1863, the first day of the battle, Jennie, along with her mother and two younger brothers, sought refuge at her sister’s house on Baltimore Street. Her sister, Georgia McClellan, had recently given birth and needed help caring for her newborn. Little did they know that this house would become a focal point of the fighting.
Over the next three days, the house was caught in the crossfire, with bullets riddling its walls. On the morning of July 3rd, while kneading dough in the kitchen, Jennie was struck by a stray bullet. It pierced her left shoulder, traveled through her heart, and lodged in her corset. She died instantly.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Mary Virginia “Jennie” Wade |
| Born | May 21, 1843, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania |
| Died | July 3, 1863, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania |
| Cause of Death | Gunshot wound to the heart from a stray bullet during the Battle of Gettysburg |
| Significance | The only civilian casualty of the Battle of Gettysburg, her death symbolizes the tragic impact of war on innocent lives. |
| Burial Place | Evergreen Cemetery, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania |
| Memorial | The Jennie Wade House, a museum dedicated to her memory, stands as a testament to her story and the impact of the Battle of Gettysburg on civilians. |
The Aftermath and Legacy of Jennie Wade
Jennie’s death shocked the community. In the midst of a battle that claimed the lives of thousands of soldiers, the death of this young woman brought home the devastating reality of war to the civilians of Gettysburg. She was buried in the Evergreen Cemetery, and her story quickly became a part of Gettysburg’s lore.
Today, the house where Jennie died is a museum known as the Jennie Wade House. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the innocent lives lost. Visitors can see the bullet hole in the door, the room where Jennie was killed, and learn about her life and tragic death.
The Jennie Wade House: Preserving a Tragic Story
The Jennie Wade House is more than just a museum; it’s a time capsule that transports visitors back to the Civil War era. The house has been carefully preserved, with many of its original furnishings and belongings still intact.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| The Bullet Hole | The actual hole created by the bullet that killed Jennie can still be seen in the kitchen door, a stark reminder of the tragic event that unfolded within the house. |
| The Death Room | The kitchen where Jennie was killed has been preserved, with the table where she was kneading dough and other period furnishings on display. Visitors can stand in the very spot where she lost her life and imagine the fear and chaos that must have filled the house during the battle. |
| Period Furnishings | The house is furnished with authentic pieces from the Civil War era, giving visitors a glimpse into what life was like for families in Gettysburg during that time. |
| Exhibits | The museum features exhibits on Jennie Wade’s life, the Battle of Gettysburg, and the impact of the war on civilians. Visitors can learn about the history of the house, the Wade family, and the broader context of the Civil War. |
| Garden and Outbuildings | The property also includes a garden and outbuildings, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life in Gettysburg. |
How Did Jennie Wade Die: Unraveling the Mystery
While we know the basic facts of how Jennie Wade died, some questions remain unanswered. Historians continue to debate which side fired the fatal shot. Some believe it was a Confederate sharpshooter positioned on Seminary Ridge, while others argue it was a Union soldier. The exact trajectory of the bullet and the type of rifle used are also subjects of ongoing research.
Despite these lingering questions, Jennie Wade’s story remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of war. Her tragic death serves as a symbol of the suffering endured by civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict.
Conclusion
Jennie Wade’s story is a poignant reminder that war affects everyone, not just soldiers on the battlefield. Her death, a tragic consequence of the Battle of Gettysburg, continues to resonate with visitors to the Jennie Wade House. The museum serves as a memorial to her life and a testament to the enduring impact of the Civil War on the town of Gettysburg and its residents. Through her story, we gain a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict and the importance of preserving the memory of those who were lost.
FAQs
How old was Jennie Wade when she died?
Jennie Wade was 20 years old when she was killed during the Battle of Gettysburg.
Where is the Jennie Wade House located?
The Jennie Wade House is located at 548 Baltimore Street in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Was Jennie Wade married?
No, Jennie Wade was not married. She was engaged to a Confederate soldier named Jack Skelly, who was killed in battle a few months before her death.
What was Jennie Wade doing when she was shot?
Jennie Wade was kneading dough for bread in her sister’s kitchen when she was struck by a stray bullet.
Is the Jennie Wade House haunted?
The Jennie Wade House is considered one of the most haunted places in Gettysburg, with many visitors and staff reporting paranormal activity.