Jon Nese, Penn State University

Abstract:

The Gettysburg Campaign, spanning June 3 to July 14, 1863, includes not only the infamous battle but also the month preceding it and the Confederate retreat afterward. Professor Michael Jacobs of the Pennsylvania College (now Gettysburg College) faithfully observed the weather in Gettysburg during the Civil War. His thrice-daily measurements have formed the basis of our understanding of the weather during the battle on July 1-3, 1863. Using other previously underutilized observations and the NOAA 20th Century Reanalysis, this presentation offers new insights into not only the weather of the battle, but also the entire Gettysburg Campaign.