Abraham Lincoln, Steven Spielberg and Gettysburg

To the delight of Civil War buffs, lovers of history and good movies, Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln will open in wide release on November 16, 2012. The movie chronicles Abraham Lincoln’s push to end the Civil War, to preserve the Union and to abolish the institution of slavery. Lincoln boasts an all-star cast with Daniel Day Lewis as Lincoln, Sally Fields as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as Radical Republican Thaddeus Stevens.

On November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldier’s National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Lincoln delivered what became known as the Gettysburg Address. On November 19, 1946, the anniversary of Lincoln’s speech was designated “Dedication Day” by the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. November 19, 2012 marks the 149th anniversary of that iconic speech. This year, three days after Lincoln’s release in theaters across the country, director Steven Spielberg will deliver the Dedication Day keynote address. The event begins with a wreath-laying ceremony at 9:30 a.m.

.Spielberg’s speech is one of many events scheduled to commemorate Lincoln’s address and the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.

Remembrance Day

A parade of Civil War groups and re-enactors will march through Gettysburg to the Grand Army of the Republic Monument in honor of Union Army soldiers.

November 17, 2012, 1:00 pm

The Luminaria

Candles will be placed on the graves in the Civil War section of the Soldiers` National Cemetery at Gettysburg.

November 17, 2012 – 5:30-9:30 pm

 US Colored Troops Graveside Salute

In honor of their service

November 19, 2012 – 10:30 am

For more information on the commemorative ceremonies, click Schedule of Events

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