Location: Gettysburg, PA
Completed: April 2023
The Beyond the Battle Museum, located in Gettysburg, PA, represents a groundbreaking project that underscores the rich history of Adams County from pre-history to the present. Developed by the Adams County Historical Society, this museum provides a comprehensive and immersive look at the region’s past, with a strong focus on natural history, native peoples, early settlers, and the pivotal Civil War battle that took place in Gettysburg. Because of the impressive elements within the museum, USA Today named it the number one best new museum to visit in the US this year. At 1220 Exhibits, we are proud to have played a significant role in bringing this historical journey to life through our innovative exhibition design and production.
Bringing History to Life: A Unique Experience
Beyond the Battle Museum offers visitors an engaging experience that vividly illustrates the story of Adams County. One of the standout features of the museum is the “Caught in the Crossfire” exhibit. This immersive media experience transports guests into a scenically recreated Civil War-era home, where they can see, feel, and hear the intense atmosphere experienced by a Gettysburg family as enemy forces overran their home. This exhibit provides a powerful and emotional connection to the historical events that shaped the region.
Scenic Innovations: A 12-Foot Tall Recreation
One of the most striking elements of the museum is the 12-foot tall recreation of the Devil’s Den rock formation. Created by 1220 Exhibits’ scenic department, this impressive structure features projection mapping technology. This technology introduces visitors to both the museum and the broader history of Adams County. This interactive element not only enhances the visual appeal of the exhibit but also enriches the storytelling by providing a dynamic and engaging introduction to the museum’s themes.
Hands-On Learning: Fossils and Frontier Life
At Beyond the Battle, patrons have the unique opportunity to interact with actual dinosaur fossils from the region. This tactile exhibit, seamlessly integrated into the museum’s displays, allows visitors to connect with the natural history of Adams County on a personal level. Additionally, the museum features scenic recreations of a frontier cabin and a local Revolutionary War-era tavern. These environments are designed to surround and highlight historical artifacts and interpretive panels, providing context and depth to the exhibits. The tavern also includes interactive elements related to games, local news, and food and drink, further enriching the visitor experience.
Custom Displays and Interactive Media
The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts is showcased in custom-built display cases designed and constructed by 1220 Exhibits. These displays effectively illustrate the experiences of Adams County residents before, during, and after the Civil War. The exhibit experience is supported by nearly a dozen linear and interactive media programs, custom projection mapping, and ambient sounds and lighting. These were all integrated by 1220’s audio/visual (AVI) department. These elements work together to create a cohesive and immersive environment that captivates visitors and enhances their understanding of the region’s history.
Graphic Production and Scenic Design
The Beyond the Battle Museum employs a variety of graphic production methods to bring its story to life. These include direct printing on various substrates, vibrant wallpaper murals, custom dimensional letters, graphic glass blades, vinyl lettering, and second-surface acrylic printing. The graphics play a crucial role in conveying the museum’s themes and providing context for the exhibits.
In addition to graphics, the museum features period-correct props, furniture, and fixtures, all carefully procured by 1220’s scenic department. These elements are framed by authentic textures and materials, including woods, metals, plaster, stone, and custom finishes, which contribute to the overall historical accuracy and aesthetic of the exhibits.
Celebrating History and Innovation
The Beyond the Battle Museum project exemplifies the commitment of the Adams County Historical Society to preserve and share the rich history of Adams County. Through the expertise and innovation of 1220 Exhibits, this museum offers an engaging and educational experience that honors the region’s past while providing a meaningful connection to its historical narrative.
As we reflect on the success of this project, we are proud of the role we played in bringing the Beyond the Battle Museum to life. Our dedication to quality and our ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship are key factors in creating exhibits that resonate with visitors and enhance their understanding of history.
Join Us in Shaping History: Adams County Historical Society Gettysburg
At 1220 Exhibits, we continue to seek talented professionals to join our team and contribute to exciting projects like the Beyond the Battle Museum. If you have a passion for exhibition fabrication and a desire to be part of a team that creates impactful and memorable experiences, we encourage you to explore career opportunities with us.
For more information about the Beyond the Battle Museum or to learn about career opportunities at 1220 Exhibits, please visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to continuing our journey in creating extraordinary exhibits that inspire and educate audiences around the world.
