Historic Gettysburg, Pa., named an American icon

CONTACT:

Carl Whitehill

Media Relations Manager

Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau

(717) 338-1055

[email protected]

Award-winning author Gary McKechnie has featured Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in his latest book, �USA 101: A Guide to America�s Iconic Places, Events and Festivals.�

In the book published by National Geographic, McKechnie eloquently describes Gettysburg�s rich history in July 1863, as tens of thousands of Union and Confederate troops converged on the small, but thriving, Pennsylvania town. He also writes how that bloody battle led to the dedication four months later and Lincoln�s immortal Gettysburg Address.

"It's impossible to think of American history without thinking of the Civil War � and of the Civil War without thinking of Gettysburg,� said McKechnie. �Understanding what happened here and recognizing just how fragile America�s future was in July 1863 makes it hard not to appreciate the sacrifices of soldiers who ensured that today we still have the privilege of living in a nation of united states.�

He includes visits to the Gettysburg National Military Park, the Museum and Visitor Center, the various tours offered in Gettysburg, the Gettysburg Hotel and the David Wills House. He also mentions the stores, restaurants and pubs in Downtown Gettysburg.

Other iconic places featured in USA 101 include Valley Forge, Plymouth Rock, Times-Square, the Kentucky Derby, Graceland, Gateway Arch, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park. McKechnic spent about two years researching the book.

�To be mentioned among such great American landmarks is exciting,� said Norris Flowers, President of the Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. �It�s clear our history continues to move people even 146 years later.�

McKechnie is a two-time winner of the Society of American Travel Writer�s Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Award and his work has appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post and Miami Herald.

Gettysburg was always a natural for USA 101,� said McKechnie. �Each time I visit I�m amazed at the impact the town has on me and the volumes of history that the guides and docents are eager to share. Every time I take a guided tour or ride across the battlefields or up to Little Round Top and get a better sense of history, I feel like I've earned a masters degree.�

The Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau, the official tourism promotion agency, markets Gettysburg and Adams County as a premier travel destination, producing a positive economic impact.

For more information on Gettysburg, its attractions, accommodations and events, call (800) 337-5015 or visit www.gettysburg.travel.