GETTYSBURG, Pa. — Inside the David Wills House on the square now named after him, President Abraham Lincoln put the finishing touches on a speech that would mark an important moment in American history.
Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery on November 19th, 1863, promising a "new birth of freedom," even as the Civil War raged on.
160 years later his words still mean a great deal.
"Dedication Day commemorates the Gettysburg Address being given by Abraham Lincoln," said Timbrel Wallace, owner of Lark Gifts on Lincoln Square. "It's special in a different way than the summer weekends which are all about the actual battle."
Wallace's stores are preparing for big rush this weekend as thousands mark the anniversary.
"Being that this weekend is so close to the Thanksgiving holiday shopping weekend, which is very, very big for us, we do tend to make our plans in advance and get ready for the folks that we know are going to come this weekend," she said.
A few doors down, Lynn Chronister was tidying up 22(9) Vintage Wears on Chambersburg Street, looking forward to a weekend of festivities and fun.
"I just love seeing all the people. I love seeing the reenactors," Chronister said. "I love seeing all the antique clothing. Just everyone dressed to the nines and celebrating what was really a great piece of American history."
Blue and Gray Bar & Grill is a fixture on the square, routinely serving up hot dishes to a packed restaurant. Owner Keith Petters said his staff is ready for another busy weekend.
"We're expecting a big turnout," he said. "The weather hopefully will cooperate. It's great what they do out here. The parade and just everybody coming to town. It's one of our busiest weekends of November and of the year."
Petters said local hotels are booked up. Businesses are making sure they look their best as Americans gather to mark 160 years of history.