EPISODE #37

Gettysburg Orphanage

Release Date: September 14, 2026

In this episode, we explore the origins and tragic legacy of the National Homestead at Gettysburg, an institution born from the emotional fallout of the Civil War.

While early years provided a nurturing haven, the sanctuary eventually turned into a living nightmare.

We hear about the orphanage’s darkest chapter following the 1870 arrival of Rosa J. Carmichael. Hired as head matron, Carmichael subjected the vulnerable children to horrific abuse and cruel punishments, most notoriously confining young ones inside a dark, cramped cellar known as “the pit.”

The discussion examines how Carmichael maintained control until public outcry forced her out, leaving an indelible scar on the building’s history.

Finally, we step down into the cellar with local historians and guides from Ghostly Images of Gettysburg to confront the paranormal reputation that surrounds the historic building today. From personal accounts of resident spirits and real-time triggers of investigative equipment to the deeper psychological weight carried by the site, this episode looks past the sensational ghost stories to examine the authentic human suffering beneath.

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