The Jacob Kime farm sits on approximately 200 acres of farm land three miles north of Gettysburg on Table Rock road and is visible at the end of a long gravel driveway. Almost 150 years ago, this home was transformed into a civil war hospital at the height of the battle of Gettysburg. It is not immediately known when the home was constructed; it is estimated at being built in the early 1800's. Research has provided little information regarding the Kime family. It appears Jacob was of German descent, and it is believed that he leased the land he farmed from a gentleman named Joseph Bringman. Jacob, his wife Eliza and their five children lived in a log cabin with a large barn and several outbuildings on the property.
It is the vision of one young girl In Adams County, PA to transform this property into a living history venue where future generations can come to visit and learn and appreciate more about this specific time in history and the stories that came out of it.
Stories like the one of William Macleod, a 21 year old confederate soldier, who arrived in Gettysburg accompanied by his body servant Moses. Upon engaging in battle at Rock Creek, he was mortally wounded and was brought to the farm for medical attention. He died shortly thereafter, and was buried under a peach tree in the Kime orchard.
In a separate incident, there was Major Peter Brennan, who was also brought to the farm. He was one of only two officers killed in the 61st Georgia Infantry Regiment at Gettysburg. He also died of his injuries and like Mcleod, was buried at the farm. Both soldiers eventually were returned to their families and laid to rest in Georgia.
It is the hope and goal to eventually offer tours, re-enactments, exhibits, lectures, and seminars regarding these and other events that occurred here at the farm, including the period leading up to and during the Battle of Gettysburg, as well as what occurred in the days afterwards. In addition, accomplishments would include a working farm, heirloom garden and interactive children's museum.
Of course, tackling this endeavor will be a long, hard road. In these initial stages, it is always a daunting task to know where to begin. Information regarding the Kime family,as well as stories surrounding this historic property will need to be gathered and compiled. It will be necessary to research any available grants and funding to begin the process.
In advance we thank you for your support-this wouldn't be possible without individuals who have a common passion for history and preservation and who have faith in the visions of young people who have been told that "anything is possible if you put your mind to it; never give up."
" “I appreciate the fact, and am proud of it, that the attentions I am receiving are intended more for our country than for me personally.”
-Ulysses S. Grant
I am (a) Jacob Kime.
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