Especially for members...
Frequently Asked Questions
Special information about the recent merger of the
Friends of the National Parks at Gettysburg
and the Gettysburg National Battlefield Museum Foundation
Are the Friends going away?
No! The Friends of Gettysburg will continue to be the “face” of the Gettysburg Foundation, holding volunteer workdays, hosting musters and all of the other things to which Friends’ members have become accustomed.
Will we still have spring and fall musters?
Yes! All Friends’ events will be held, and are eagerly being planned. We will be adding even more exciting programs in the future.
What will happen to the Rupp House and the Finfrock Center/Barbara’s Library?
Nothing! The Rupp House and the Finfrock Center/Barbara’s Library will continue to be exactly what they are—a place for members and non-members to visit, make some purchases and catch up on all things Gettysburg! New Friends’ logo clothing will be available soon!
What does this mean for individual Friends’ members?
It means that you’ll have even more opportunities to help Gettysburg ’s National Parks. Volunteer opportunities will be increasing; educational programs will be increasing—and Friends’ members will have an exclusive, insiders’ view of the most exciting things happening right now—the construction of a new museum and visitor center and the conservation of the Cyclorama painting.
Will my member number change?
No! Your member number will remain the same.
Will the staff be changing?
No! Only expanding.
Will my membership dues be increasing?
No! But please keep in mind that, periodically, all non-profits assess their membership and giving levels and make necessary adjustments, as the Friends have done over the years. The Gettysburg Foundation will periodically make this assessment and determine what types of membership levels can best serve current and future members.
Will my member benefits change?
The Friends regularly assesses member benefits and makes appropriate adjustments, as do all non-profits. Member benefits will continue to be meaningful “thank yous” to the thousands of people who renew their memberships or join for the first time.
Will there still be a newsletter?
Of course! We couldn’t live without it, and we know most of you can’t, either!
Who will I call if I have a problem with my membership?
Just like always, the member services department—if they can’t help you (which rarely happens!), they’ll find someone who can.
What do I do if I have questions about the merger and the Gettysburg Foundation?
We’ve set up a special email address so we can receive your questions and make sure you have all of the information you need: questions@friendsofgettysburg.org . We promise to answer your questions as quickly as possible!
What is the focus of the new Gettysburg Foundation?
The Gettysburg Foundation is focused on all of the things Friends’ members are concerned about: land preservation, education, battlefield rehabilitation, monument and cannon carriage rehabilitation and artifact acquisition and preservation.
What about the Eisenhower Site?
The Gettysburg Foundation is committed to supporting both of Gettysburg ’s National Parks—the Gettysburg National Military Park and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.
Will the Web site change?
Eventually, the Gettysburg Foundation will launch a brand-new Web site, but don’t worry…if you’ve become accustomed to typing www.friendsofgettysburg.org , you’ll still be able to do so. The Friends’ Web site, and Web site address, will continue to be active as the membership’s portion of the Web site. In the meantime, before this happens, please continue to visit www.friendsofgettysburg.org , and check out www.gettysburgfoundation.org .
Will I still be able to buy Friends’ logo clothing?
Of course! We know you love to show your Friends’ pride, and we want you to do just that! We’re hard at work right now designing a “Friends of Gettysburg” clothing line. Keep checking the Web site for availability!
Who can I ask if I still have questions?
The best thing to do is send an E-mail to questions@friendsofgettysburg.org .