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One of the more well known farms on the battlefield is the John Slyder farm located at the base of Big Roundtop. This 88 acre farm on July 2, 1863 would be transformed forever as soldiers from north and south moved through the farm. The fences and stone walls built by the Slyder family would become defensive works for Union sharpshooters and obstacles for Confederate troops to overcome as they made their assault toward the Roundtops. The stone house standing today was built by John Slyder in 1852. As the farm grew several barns and outbuildings were added to the property. Like many other landowners farming was not enough for the family to sustain themselves on, being a skilled blacksmith John Slyder also built a blacksmith shop near the house. In addition to horses, milk cows, cattle, swine, chickens, and an orchard, the Slyders also owned a large timber supply on the slopes of Big Roundtop. Life on the farm for the Slyder family was hard work but they prospered on their farm. Like all of those who owned property on the battlefield the Slyders returned to destruction. Their farm had been devastated, with food gone and the well run dry, they submitted claims to the U.S. government for battle damage but received nothing. In 1992, during the filming for the movie Gettysburg, this farm was used as the backdrop for Robert E. Lee’s headquarters. 
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Last updated: April 11, 2024