The 1863 home of the John Rupp family, the Rupp House History Center tells the story of civilian life during and after the Battle of Gettysburg.

Cannon thunder on the outskirts of town. Soldiers gather outside your front door. What would you do?

John and Caroline Rupp lived here with their six children ranging in ages from six months to 13 years. As the Battle of Gettysburg broke out, John’s father took Caroline and the children to his home, about eight blocks away in a perilous journey through a town occupied by soldiers. Meanwhile, as Union and Confederate troops exchanged gunfire through the house, John stayed behind at the home and took refuge in the cellar until the battle ended.

See, hear and feel how the battle and its aftermath impacted the Rupp family and their Gettysburg neighbors.

The Rupp House offers:

• Hands-on History: Lift. Open. Touch. Visitors of all ages experience engaging and interactive history.
• Family Fun: Hear the stories and search the displays as part of your historical scavenger hunt.
• Free Admission: Step inside this convenient and free attraction on your Gettysburg visit. Your donation and proceeds from your purchases in the museum benefit battlefield preservation.
• Living History: Meet living historians on the Rupp House grounds during weekends in the summer.
• Special Events: Join in Civil War activities and courtyard and candlelight chats offered most weekends throughout the spring and summer.