John Burns Room

Located on the second floor of the Carriage House, the John Burns Room offers a warm and inviting retreat inspired by one of Gettysburg's most legendary citizens. Thoughtfully designed with a touch of Scotland and Ireland, this charming guest room features a queen-size bed, a full-size sofa bed, a cozy fireplace, Roku TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, a comfortable sitting area, and a private bathroom with a walk-in shower. Please note that the fireplace is unavailable whenever the air conditioning is operating, typically from May through September.

The room honors John L. Burns, Gettysburg's celebrated civilian hero. Of Scottish ancestry, Burns was 69 years old when he took up his Enfield rifle and joined Union soldiers on July 1, 1863, becoming the only documented civilian to fight alongside the Union Army during the Battle of Gettysburg. Refusing to remain on the sidelines, he fought first with the 7th Wisconsin Infantry before joining the 24th Michigan of the famed Iron Brigade, where he served as an effective sharpshooter throughout the afternoon.

As Union forces were forced to retreat toward Seminary Ridge, Burns was seriously wounded in his arm, leg, and chest. Unable to continue, he buried his ammunition and convinced Confederate soldiers that he had been searching the battlefield for his invalid wife. His wounds were treated by Confederate surgeons, and after the Confederate Army withdrew, Burns resumed his defiant support of the Union, even assisting in the arrest of Confederate stragglers until Federal cavalry under Brigadier General John Buford secured the town. His courage earned him lasting admiration, with General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain later recalling Burns walking with deliberate determination, rifle in hand.

The room's décor reflects Burns' Scottish heritage and remarkable spirit through a Jacobean and Elizabethan Revival design. Rich oak and mahogany furnishings, leather accents, heavy wool fabrics, tartan plaids, tweeds, velvets, and damasks create a warm, timeless atmosphere. Deep earth tones, antique-inspired furnishings, Scottish landscapes, and subtle references to his roles as a constable, marksman, and civilian patriot combine to create a space that honors one of Gettysburg's most unforgettable figures while providing guests with modern comfort and historic character.