I first visited Antietam in 1967 as a 12-year-old and was captured by the human drama emanating from The Cornfield, Bloody Lane, and Burnside’s Bridge. Little could I have imagined that a day would come when I would live near this sacred place and have the privilege to serve among the select group of scholars, historians, and writers comprising the Antietam Battlefield Guides.

I especially enjoy working with families, and helping all guests to gain a contextualized view of the battle of Antietam in American history—to understand anew the timeless nature of the human struggle for justice and freedom. Together, we’ll share some humor and maybe even a few tears in consideration of the great sacrifices made by our ancestors.

Passionate communication marks my every day. As the senior pastor of a church of 1100 people, and the head coach of a three-time state championship high school cross
country program, I need to daily bring an enthusiasm for
the activity at hand. The same applies to a tour around
America’s most pristine Civil War battlefield.

Driving north on the old Hagerstown Turnpike, I’ll be sure
to introduce you to my favorite guy on the battlefield:
Abner Doubleday (pictured). I am in the latter stages of
writing a biography about this very interesting Civil
War general.

So, do come and visit! You will walk away enriched in your
knowledge of history, encouraged by the valor of those who
gave all for their ideals, and resolved to preserve such
national treasures as this place called “Antietam.”

Dr. Randy Buchman

Tours with a battlefield guide may be arranged by calling
the Antietam Museum Bookstore at 301-432-4329 or
toll-free at 866-461-5180. If I may assist you personally,
you may contact me at randy@bibliander.com.