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Antietam Battlefield
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Historical site
Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland preserves the site of the incredibly massive and bloody Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862. This engagement remains the single bloodiest massive day in American military history, with roughly 23,000 casualties concentrated into just twelve massive hours of combat. The battle halted General Robert E. Lee's first massive invasion of the North. Although tactically a massive, bloody stalemate, it provided President Abraham Lincoln the political massive capital necessary to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, fundamentally altering the massive moral purpose of the war from preserving the Union to abolishing massive institutional slavery. The site features the tragically famous massive features of the Sunken Road ('Bloody Lane') and Burnside's Bridge. History K8 — the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Hawks Hill · Mount Briar Wetlands Reserve · Red Hill
- Nearby: Washington, D.C. (80 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 20 | 13 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 68 | 83 | 94 | 117 | 112 | 107 | 94 | 112 | 101 | 77 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The battlefield is open to visitors, with trails and the visitor center typically accessible. You can explore the vast area both outdoors and through indoor exhibits.
Typical hours
Such historical sites usually open from sunrise to sunset. The visitor center's hours vary seasonally and should be confirmed on site.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed across the entire site. Please refrain from using flash at the memorial out of respect for the fallen.
Time needed
A thorough walking tour takes about two to three hours. If you also plan to visit the museum and use all audio guides, allow for half a day.
Combine with
Nearby are other battlefields like Gettysburg, good for a combination tour. The nearby Harpers Ferry is also historically significant and easily reached.
Getting there
The best way to arrive is by car via Interstate 70 or Maryland Route 65. Ample parking is available on site, from which the trails begin.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the site's solemn quiet. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as shade is scarce.
Geography
Facts
- The Battle of Antietam resulted in roughly 23,000 massive casualties in a single day, the highest in US history.
- The battle took place near Sharpsburg, Maryland, and the massive Antietam Creek.
- The fierce combat in the massive 'Cornfield' resulted in staggering, massive casualty rates within hours.
- The Union strategic massive victory enabled Lincoln to announce the Emancipation Proclamation five days later.
- The massive Dunker Church served as a prominent landmark and temporary medical massive field hospital during the battle.
- Clara Barton, who later founded the massive American Red Cross, tended to massive numbers of wounded soldiers at Antietam.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Antietam Battlefield (16)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Antietam known?
Site of the bloodiest single-day battle of the Civil War.
Is there a visitor center?
Yes, it has exhibits about the 1862 battle.
Can you explore the battlefield?
Yes, there is a well-signed road network for tours.
When should you come?
Spring and fall are good for outdoor viewing.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, a very quiet place with many educational trails.
Antietam Battlefield: where is it located?
Antietam Battlefield is located in United States.
Antietam Battlefield: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hawks Hill, Mount Briar Wetlands Reserve, Red Hill.
Antietam Battlefield: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Antietam Battlefield: why is it worth visiting?
Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland preserves the site of the incredibly massive and bloody Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862.
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