How can anyone NOT like Matt Atkinson as a Park Ranger who has so much knowledge of Gettysburg, and the ability to entertain tourists engaged for over an hour in this day and age of instant gratification? I don`t see anyone being disrespectful and talking or texting on their cell phones, or chatting ,and being disruptive. I hope to one day meet the man, and take his tour on the field, no matter if it is Devils Den, Seminary Ridge, Picketts Charge, or Little Round Top. He is a superb guide, and must love his job greatly. Thank you Ranger Matt!
Listening to Mr. Atkinson talk gives one the impression of being at the exact moment the battle of Gettysburg was occurring. The US Park Service at Gettysburg is very fortunate to have Park Rangers like Matt Atkinson as an employee who really loves his job and loves history too.
He's very entertaining and well articulated on Gettysburg battle / battlefield knowledge. I'm most impressed with Mr. Atkinson's presentation of fact and legend
34:02 young soldier reminds me of me when I was younger. I was about 9 years old when I went to Gettysburg , my mom bought me that very same sack coat and that very same kepi. I was wearing it at Gettysburg and when my grandfather ( who is a Vietnam era vet) saw me he snapped to attention and rendered a hand salute. That very moment sticks with me to this day. That opened my eyes to the study of history and of the concept that some things in life are worth fighting for.... Flash forward 11 years and I'm now serving in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry-man. I hope this young lad had a meaningful and thought inducing experience in the sacred place that is Gettysburg.... PS to the kid , I wouldn't wanna be a Johnny reb either!
As an ex-patriot Brit who is now a Canadian, and has been privileged to visit Gettysburg several times, I would like to say that, You, Ranger Matt brought vividly to life the bravery and horror that took place on those 3 dreadful days in July 1863. Thank you.
Matt Atkinson was correct.....I was one of "Pickett's Bully Boys" in August '92, filming Pickett-Pettigrew's charge for KILLER ANGELS, er GETTYSBURG. One afternoon, Martin Sheen was riding his horse back-and-forth in front of our brigade front, to get into character. All of a sudden the chant; "Lee, Lee, Lee" went up and very spontaneously, us reenactors started swarming towards him. (Glad he had control of the horse!). The director was so impressed he had it RECREATED and captured it for the film. Im not sure if there was any camera following his initial ride by the brigade. It was a very inspired moment. Afterwards, as time allowed, Sheen posed with each company in the brigade; having his picture taken and chatting briefly with each company as a "thank you" for the inspiration. Steven Lang as Pickett,was also a very fine guy. As he was sitting on his horse, waiting for a take, he allowed reenactors to have pictures taken with him, shaking hands and posing "in character". Its the little things.
my neighbor actually worked as Beringer's assistant and was a talent driver for Gettysburg, He told me that Beringer was a great person to be around but reserved and Sheen made it easy to film because of his heritage he could talk to the orchard workers like it was nothing.
Frank Carmack - I worked with a reenactor who told me the exact same story. I brought in “Gettysburg” and we watched it at lunch over a couple days and he told me what he could about the filming. You can actually see him for 2 seconds in that scene where everyone is cheering Sheen as Lee. It was really cool. He was at the 150th anniversary of the battle and he appears a few times in “Gods and Generals”. He said all the actors on “Gettysburg” were really nice to all the reenactors and he showed me a notebook he kept with almost every actor’s autograph. He said Sheen was the nicest guy they all met. As both a movie fan and Civil War fan, I really enjoyed talking about the movie and war with him. He brought his stuff to work before going to the 150th anniversary and I got to fire his rifle and see all his gear. All you who keep the Civil War alive by reenacting are to be commended for preserving history.
Chamberlain's pivot and charge came after they ran out of ammunition. These Rangers get a lot of historical facts wrong. I had one at Vicksburg telling the audience that both sides had rifled cannon. When I pointed out his mistake he argued with me and got mouthy. These guys follow a script they've memorized and are free to embellish by the park service.
@@unitedwestand5100 Rifled cannons were coming into use during the war. It was one of the war's innovations. When and where it was introduced requires special knowledge.
I've visited Gettysburg twice and at both times this beautiful fearful place has brought me to tears. As a Brit that became a Canadian some 47 years ago, I am both stunned and over awed by this place. Anyone who visits here, can't help but be affect by what those patriots from both north and south sufferedfor their beliefs. The U.S.A, has many many incredible places, I have been fortunate to vist some of them, But Little Round top is my most favorite plac eof all, dispite its horrendous history. Thank you Ranger Matt Atkinson for this wonderful narrative.
No, they want to deny the warts in our heritage which are just as important as the beauty marks. I say in return remove every statue and street named after ML King because he was turning into a communist when he was murdered.
I have no objection to monuments to soldiers who died on the battle field for either side. I do strenuously object to monuments erected elsewhere in glorification of treason.
I wonder how the Mongols would feel if they tore down statues of Genghis Khan.? Its all history to me, and then suddenly in 2017 someone wants to tear down Confederate statues, ? after they have been up for over 150?, talk about lemming`s (everyone joins in ) unreal and so sad..
I was just at Gettysburg Battlefield 2 weeks ago. I teach U.S. History to 11th graders in California, and my trip along with these genuine videos allow me to bring history to life for my students.
As an Englishman fascinated by the American Civil War, I found your talk engrossing. You are one helluva speaker Matt and I could listen to your talks on the war all day.I know this video is six years old but I hope you are still doing these talks, you obviously get great enjoyment out of them.
I was standing in that exact spot in March 2019. Stunning.Went to Antietam later in the day. Full marks to everyone involved in the preservation of these battlefields.
Ranger Atkinson is such an exemplary public servant who genuinely relishes his work in educating the public about such a seminal point in US History. People like him really bring these events to life and you can see from this video his audience is in rapt attention the entire time. I look forward to meeting him soon myself. Kudos to Tanner his historical stand in as well, impressive young gentleman.
Truly enthralling. Matt Atkinson is a great Park Ranger with a very good group of interested and interesting people. Thank you. Wish I could have been there.
That dude in the blue shirt that Ranger Matt gives a friendly admonishing to for having his foot on Warren's rock...just laughs and stays on it like dude, no, he's not kidding...Get off it
That was a fantastic experience. I couldn’t imagine a better guide than he. He had me riveted to the screen. I wish I could go today and meet this gentleman so that I could thank him for the wonderful tour. Thank you for posting this
As a matter of interest, Spear wasn't promoted to Major until August 1863, after the battle on Little Round Top. He wasn't a West Pointer, he graduated from Bowdoin College. Later he was promoted through the ranks to Brigadier General. What great presentation the Ranger gave!!
Thanks Matt Atkinson for the absolutely superb way you open up the story of Gettysburg to everyone who watches and listens to your and the other rangers telling us the events of what happened there. As a Brit I have always been intrested in the battle but had only watched the film, after seeing this I have a clearer and better understanding of the events that took place and am looking forward to visiting myself next year.
What a FANTASTIC presentation! I've been to Gettysburg many times and I still learn something new every time I hear of it's history. Matt, you were exceptional. Thanks for this.
Great, great job Matt -- You're a terrific storyteller and plain-speaking guide, to make history seem vibrant and "not boring" like too many kids think it is today. I am a professional speaker, have done battlefield staff rides at other fields of conflict, and have visited Gettysburg 13 times since a teenager -- and your presentation is vivid and wonderful -- with just the right amount of little details, anecdotes, a bit of humor -- but it looks like it was hot there - -couldn't someone have offered you a bottled water? great job!
As a Maine-boy, with rebell roots (my mother was from NC) I am torn about the Gettysburg battle. However, I will say that I think the 20th Maine under Chamberlain saved the Union flank on the 2nd of July. Fantastic presentation overall. Makes me want to visit the Gettysburg battlefield even more! Thank you!
@Matt Atkinson Matt, I love your lectures! You give history very well, while using some humor, which is refreshing. Some of the ones I've seen, the ranger simply read his cue cards in a very dry manor, and I could have read the cards myself and saved him the trouble. Keep up the good work
Wow that was awesome!! As an Australian ive always been fascinated with the US Civil War. This video is amazing in detail knowledge and enthusiasm. Thanks so much for sharing.
I've been to the Gettysburg battlefield five times and this video adds so much granular information that I never realized before. It seems that every time I visit the site, I learn something new. And that's a good thing.
Ranger Matt makes a great presentation, clearly communicating both sides and effectively bringing the days events to life. Early on he mentions sunsets from LRT are a sight to see. I concur. If you are visiting the park and the sky is right this is the place to be. Through the years we have spent three evenings on LRT. Last time we were in the park in 2012 we made bit of a forced march, driving actually, from the cavalry battlefield to get here before the sunset. Was magnificent. We then walked in near darkness to the 20th Maine battle area. Hung out there a while after pitch dark. Was interesting being the only ones there in the dark. Kind of felt a deeper connection.
This guy is great! I would love to see Gettysburg,feel Gettysburg,Ranger Matt makes me feel like I'm there,if I ever get there I hope I get a tour guide like Matt!!!
The Park Service is well served and we are all honored by the efforts and knowledge of Mr. Atkinson.....Just a tremendous job of explaining a complicated and crucial piece of our history.
Having watched a number of these videos, it is an easy call for me to make that Matt Atkinson is clearly well studied in what he tells people. Aside for some minor points about Co B's participation, I can find no fault with his presentation. Clearly he is the best of his class. I would love to know his academic background and to have a sitdown with him, he is that well prepared and a credit to his occupation.
I watched a video not to long ago "Sacred Trust Talks 2013: Matt Atkinson" The lady introducing him mentions he was getting his degree in history. A bachelor or Masters I can't remember. I would have to watch it again. His thesis at the time was on one of the battles in the civil war.
@@TheTravelingCamper If he's writing a thesis that indicates post-grad work, right? IIRC in a video on Hancock he say's he's an Ol' Miss product... don't quote me on that.
I'm a huge history nerd and love the Civil War. I've not yet been to Gettysburg but it's on my list at the tippity top. I can not wait to visit. After watching this, I dearly hope Ranger Atkinson is still there. To Ranger Matt Atkinson: your tour was highly informative and exceedingly humorous. Thank you so much. Sitting in my bedroom in New York City watching this at 2:30am I felt like I was there. If you're still doing tours when I finally get there one day I owe you a beer - Guy Trotter.
Thanks Matt Atkinson for changing up the battlefield walk by the loop for me. I love watching all the GNPS Rangers on video. Talking about areas of the battlefield but from what I seen your the best. It was really nice that you walked a different way while telling the group about Kershaw's assault. Do to I being in a wheelchair and couldn't get to some locations. Hope to talk another tour of the battlefield with you. And keep up the good videos here on You Tube. Doug Torborg
Matt, on a magnificent spring afternoon ten days ago my wife and I joined your group for this same Little Round Top presentation. You are a credit to the staff of the NPS. Most importantly we want to encourage you to KEEP YOUR NEW BEARD!
Wonderful narration of what happened in the region of little round too...loved walking in the area of that section of that battle even though we are not from the USA...thanks Matt..
I knew alot about the battle but learned more in this video than from any book I've read. Certainly helps to see the battlefield to put it all in perspective.
This guy is one hell of a great narrator. I have to get back to Pa and visit this iconic site and take his tour before I am too old to appreciate. Thank you so very much for the video. This is most interesting and provides much more than I have derived from books and other videos. I just hope this park ranger is paid very, very well.
+robert glenn He has a passion for the history of Gettysburg. Combined with a reverence for the men who fell, makes for an excellent presentation. I hung on every word he said. I am a New Englander, and Joshua Chamberlain is a favorite son.
Just gonna say that guy is a rude *** for keeping this foot on the rock and then sitting on it after the ranger was incredibly polite in his attempt to get him off it.
Awesome! you just watched over an hour of a wonderful presentation of the battle around little round top and you comment about the guy at the rock... That left the biggest impression with you?
It's a rock. It's not a big deal. What I find offensive is that this jackass of a park ranger thinks he's a damned comedian, and he's NOT the least bit funny. Many thousands of American died here, so it's NOT a place to be making stupid jokes!
@@joevenuti1201 its history jackass....we remember and never forget. this is simply a way of keeping the people focused and entertained. stfu....we know people died here 150+ yrs ago..no need for your brilliant facts
My take on this incident was that the ranger wanted to forewarn the guy not to climb up on the rock. That would be a health and legal liability in case the guy fell or tripped.
Chamberlain and Spear were in fact good friends (Spear a best friend of Chamberlain's dead brother) during their whole lives. After Chamberlain's death, Spear took issue with some of Chamberlains descriptions of 2 battles in published magazines. Unknown to Spear, so did Chamberlain! The magazines had, in editing, added a lot of fluff. The Bayonet charge was probably one of those fluffs. Had Chamberlain lived and they got together to speak of it, no doubt an understanding would have been had of the evils of journalism and editors. Bottom line, 20th Main charged, Alabamans were overrun even if they were pulling back. Great presentation, I loved the humor. So many details, only deep reading can give you a probabilistic overview which the Ranger so well pointed out several times. I would enjoy his tour immensely and thank him for this video!
Park Ranger Matt commands my attention. And what detail! I seriously doubt I will ever visit the battlefield. But this is the next best thing. He puts us right into the action. War is all hell. And Matt takes us there...literally.
That was such great story telling. Thank you for posting this and thank you Ranger Matt Atkinson for your colorful and historical descriptions of the events at Gettysburg!
This guy is an incredible educator! As a Brit who came to the US nearly 30 years ago, I now live about 25 miles from Gettysburg, and have spent many hours taking photos of the battlefield. Little Round Top is my favourite place there - the history almost oozes from the ground! I have read many books on the battle, but I have never seen a presentation as good as this one! Just subscribed, and I will be following these historic videos...
Have just discovered these videos - and am working my way through them. Especially enjoy Ranger Matt Atkinson's walks and descriptions. Really feel like you are there when he talks.
Having just now watch 05/01/2019 I truly enjoy the walk through the National Parks Service provides. As I am over 19 hours from your location. As a disable Veteran, that uses a walker, even if I could make it to you, I would not be able to enjoy the tour as I am enjoying with all the many videos that I have recently found. All the many Rangers I have seen and have enjoyed. My heart felt thanks
That really helps you understand what defining events that happened at the battle of Gettysburg! Battle for high ground and flanking! Thank you Ranger Matt, you can tell you genuinely care!
A phenomenal place. Love to hear the background stories. My family and I had an awesome supernatural experience - I am not lying. I soak this up like a sponge
I'm here in 2020 on the Anniversary weekend of Gettysburg, and here again, because of our favorite Ranger, Matt. I also watch "StuffWriter" vids, but anything Matt, is the greatest. My favorite part of U.S. History, I never tire of Civil War history, never tire of Gettysburg.
Great presentation about the rocky little hill. So many heroes on the Union side, Warren, Vincent, O' Rourke, Hazlett, Weed as well as Chamberlain. Killers Angles only tells part of the struggle for Little Round Top of Chamberlain and his 20th Maine. An important part, for sure but the others stories are equally important but far less familiar to modern viewers, .
I visited the same spots and came away with not 1/10th the understanding of them as provided by the venerable Mr. Atkinson. But I was impressed to see cadets from West Point being guided by their own instructor explaining to them the importance of the battle and those locations. Although I did not have a clear understanding myself, it was quite impressive to see their reverence for what happened at Little Round Top.
I wouldn't know if Gen. Buford would have meant the esthetic beauty (yes it is) or the military value, but I'm assuming the latter, as the character Devin then says "best ground I've seen all day."
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How can anyone NOT like Matt Atkinson as a Park Ranger who has so much knowledge of Gettysburg, and the ability to entertain tourists engaged for over an hour in this day and age of instant gratification? I don`t see anyone being disrespectful and talking or texting on their cell phones, or chatting ,and being disruptive. I hope to one day meet the man, and take his tour on the field, no matter if it is Devils Den, Seminary Ridge, Picketts Charge, or Little Round Top. He is a superb guide, and must love his job greatly. Thank you Ranger Matt!
Listening to Mr. Atkinson talk gives one the impression of being at the exact moment the battle of Gettysburg was occurring. The US Park Service at Gettysburg is very fortunate to have Park Rangers like Matt Atkinson as an employee who really loves his job and loves history too.
JackFlemingFan good job to Matt from a former ranger
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Amen
He's very entertaining and well articulated on Gettysburg battle / battlefield knowledge. I'm most impressed with Mr. Atkinson's presentation of fact and legend
As an Englishman I feel compelled to pay a visit to Gettysburg after watching documentaries and this video. Great work!
34:02 young soldier reminds me of me when I was younger. I was about 9 years old when I went to Gettysburg , my mom bought me that very same sack coat and that very same kepi. I was wearing it at Gettysburg and when my grandfather ( who is a Vietnam era vet) saw me he snapped to attention and rendered a hand salute. That very moment sticks with me to this day. That opened my eyes to the study of history and of the concept that some things in life are worth fighting for.... Flash forward 11 years and I'm now serving in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry-man. I hope this young lad had a meaningful and thought inducing experience in the sacred place that is Gettysburg.... PS to the kid , I wouldn't wanna be a Johnny reb either!
Im from Ireland and I'm fascinated with the battle of Gettysburg. This guy is so good at telling his story I have seen all his videos.
Irish Brigade, Forward!!!
have you tried playing ultimate general civil war
Hope you'll be able to visit the battlefield someday and pay respects to the Irish Brigade who fought bravely here.
As an ex-patriot Brit who is now a Canadian, and has been privileged to visit Gettysburg several times, I would like to say that, You, Ranger Matt brought vividly to life the bravery and horror that took place on those 3 dreadful days in July 1863. Thank you.
Matt Atkinson was correct.....I was one of "Pickett's Bully Boys" in August '92, filming Pickett-Pettigrew's charge for KILLER ANGELS, er GETTYSBURG.
One afternoon, Martin Sheen was riding his horse back-and-forth in front of our brigade front, to get into character. All of a sudden the chant; "Lee, Lee, Lee" went up and very spontaneously, us reenactors started swarming towards him. (Glad he had control of the horse!).
The director was so impressed he had it RECREATED and captured it for the film. Im not sure if there was any camera following his initial ride by the brigade. It was a very inspired moment.
Afterwards, as time allowed, Sheen posed with each company in the brigade; having his picture taken and chatting briefly with each company as a "thank you" for the inspiration.
Steven Lang as Pickett,was also a very fine guy. As he was sitting on his horse, waiting for a take, he allowed reenactors to have pictures taken with him, shaking hands and posing "in character". Its the little things.
my neighbor actually worked as Beringer's assistant and was a talent driver for Gettysburg, He told me that Beringer was a great person to be around but reserved and Sheen made it easy to film because of his heritage he could talk to the orchard workers like it was nothing.
What happened with Jeff Daniels?
Frank Carmack - I worked with a reenactor who told me the exact same story. I brought in “Gettysburg” and we watched it at lunch over a couple days and he told me what he could about the filming. You can actually see him for 2 seconds in that scene where everyone is cheering Sheen as Lee. It was really cool. He was at the 150th anniversary of the battle and he appears a few times in “Gods and Generals”. He said all the actors on “Gettysburg” were really nice to all the reenactors and he showed me a notebook he kept with almost every actor’s autograph. He said Sheen was the nicest guy they all met. As both a movie fan and Civil War fan, I really enjoyed talking about the movie and war with him. He brought his stuff to work before going to the 150th anniversary and I got to fire his rifle and see all his gear. All you who keep the Civil War alive by reenacting are to be commended for preserving history.
Mr. Lang is a great narrator on the History Channel's *The Unknown Civil War* series. He has a great voice and a lot of enthusiasm.
Stephen Lang was a sadly underappreciated member of that cast. Hard for everyone to get their due when you have so many titans, but he was amazing.
I think the hard part about being a park ranger at such a famous place like Gettysburg is that everyone is an expert.
Many are; some can be classified as just "dangerous" if you know what I mean.
Recognition to our excellent Park Rangers.
Chamberlain's pivot and charge came after they ran out of ammunition.
These Rangers get a lot of historical facts wrong. I had one at Vicksburg telling the audience that both sides had rifled cannon. When I pointed out his mistake he argued with me and got mouthy.
These guys follow a script they've memorized and are free to embellish by the park service.
@@unitedwestand5100 Very good point man. The Rebs never knew the fact that the Fed. forces were dry. Otherwise things might have gone otherwise
Hes wonderful
@@unitedwestand5100 Rifled cannons were coming into use during the war. It was one of the war's innovations. When and where it was introduced requires special knowledge.
Walking the fields of Gettysburg is extremely moving, esp. when you know the facts of the battle.Never forget the sacrifices these soldiers made!
Amen Connie!
You're a damn fine field guide and narrator, Ranger Matt.
Really good field guide
The best
Super guide. Ranger.
Some of the tourists are douche bags
FLexxxtreme That comes with having tourists anywhere, I live in a tourist hotspot and see a lot of jerks. Just gotta grit and put up with it.
I've visited Gettysburg twice and at both times this beautiful fearful place has brought me to tears. As a Brit that became a Canadian some 47 years ago, I am both stunned and over awed by this place. Anyone who visits here, can't help but be affect by what those patriots from both north and south sufferedfor their beliefs. The U.S.A, has many many incredible places, I have been fortunate to vist some of them, But Little Round top is my most favorite plac eof all, dispite its horrendous history. Thank you Ranger Matt Atkinson for this wonderful narrative.
and now they want to tear down statues of the confederacy
No, they just want them to be in places such as this.
No, they want to deny the warts in our heritage which are just as important as the beauty marks. I say in return remove every statue and street named after ML King because he was turning into a communist when he was murdered.
I have no objection to monuments to soldiers who died on the battle field for either side. I do strenuously object to monuments erected elsewhere in glorification of treason.
I wonder how the Mongols would feel if they tore down statues of Genghis Khan.? Its all history to me, and then suddenly in 2017 someone wants to tear down Confederate statues, ? after they have been up for over 150?, talk about lemming`s (everyone joins in ) unreal and so sad..
Kudos to this very good man that is so knowledgeable a guide. Preserver of precious history. Thank you sir.
Tom Quinn a Ranger a little Cooler deal than “a guide”
I was just at Gettysburg Battlefield 2 weeks ago. I teach U.S. History to 11th graders in California, and my trip along with these genuine videos allow me to bring history to life for my students.
Wait, they allow you to spend more than one day on the civil war? In 2005 we spent one day on it.....public education at it's finest.
What???? california students know the rest of the United States exists?
@@garneroutlaw1 In 1978 we spent ZERO on the actual civil war, but a lot on the causes preceding it.
As an Englishman fascinated by the American Civil War, I found your talk engrossing. You are one helluva speaker Matt and I could listen to your talks on the war all day.I know this video is six years old but I hope you are still doing these talks, you obviously get great enjoyment out of them.
We live in Gettysburg and are on the battlefield almost daily, most beautiful ground
ever!
+Jeanelle Majcen Hallowed and Holy ground
Hallowed yes. Holy........mmmmm no.
don't forget the Ghosts....
I live in the UK and i am very jealous lol
Dont be. My ancestors were from England and many died in the battles you had there.
Matt Atkinson is a great communicator and makes history come alive.
Best story telling Ranger guide.
I was standing in that exact spot in March 2019. Stunning.Went to Antietam later in the day. Full marks to everyone involved in the preservation of these battlefields.
Ranger Atkinson is such an exemplary public servant who genuinely relishes his work in educating the public about such a seminal point in US History. People like him really bring these events to life and you can see from this video his audience is in rapt attention the entire time. I look forward to meeting him soon myself. Kudos to Tanner his historical stand in as well, impressive young gentleman.
Truly enthralling. Matt Atkinson is a great Park Ranger with a very good group of interested and interesting people. Thank you. Wish I could have been there.
What a great guide ! 11 / 10 Definitly deserves more recognition !
That dude in the blue shirt that Ranger Matt gives a friendly admonishing to for having his foot on Warren's rock...just laughs and stays on it like dude, no, he's not kidding...Get off it
Matt Atkinson is a real character and a credit to the Rangers
GPS Ranger Matt Atkinson brings this battle alive like no one else I have ever heard. Thank you very much ,sir!
That was a fantastic experience. I couldn’t imagine a better guide than he. He had me riveted to the screen. I wish I could go today and meet this gentleman so that I could thank him for the wonderful tour. Thank you for posting this
As a matter of interest, Spear wasn't promoted to Major until August 1863, after the battle on Little Round Top. He wasn't a West Pointer, he graduated from Bowdoin College. Later he was promoted through the ranks to Brigadier General. What great presentation the Ranger gave!!
Thanks Matt Atkinson for the absolutely superb way you open up the story of Gettysburg to everyone who watches and listens to your and the other rangers telling us the events of what happened there. As a Brit I have always been intrested in the battle but had only watched the film, after seeing this I have a clearer and better understanding of the events that took place and am looking forward to visiting myself next year.
I have been there several times. Learn something new from each Ranger and licensed battlefield guide.
So glad he was one of our guides. For some reason he kept referring to me as Little Round Top or LRT. Great guy--hilarious and well informed.
A great talk given by Mr. Atkinson..
What a FANTASTIC presentation! I've been to Gettysburg many times and I still learn something new every time I hear of it's history. Matt, you were exceptional. Thanks for this.
One of the best historical guided tours I've ever seen or heard. Kudos to Matt! I'm a lifelong CW buff but I learned several new things from his talk.
Great, great job Matt -- You're a terrific storyteller and plain-speaking guide, to make history seem vibrant and "not boring" like too many kids think it is today. I am a professional speaker, have done battlefield staff rides at other fields of conflict, and have visited Gettysburg 13 times since a teenager -- and your presentation is vivid and wonderful -- with just the right amount of little details, anecdotes, a bit of humor -- but it looks like it was hot there - -couldn't someone have offered you a bottled water? great job!
This is amazing! Matt is an amazing storyteller with lots of lesser known knowledge!!
I wanted to hand Ranger Matt Atkinson a tall cold bottle of water. What a great presentation! Thanks, Ranger Atkinson!
I really enjoyed that. I'm from the UK but have always been fascinated by the American Civil War and hope to visit Gettysburg one day.
As a Maine-boy, with rebell roots (my mother was from NC) I am torn about the Gettysburg battle. However, I will say that I think the 20th Maine under Chamberlain saved the Union flank on the 2nd of July.
Fantastic presentation overall. Makes me want to visit the Gettysburg battlefield even more! Thank you!
@Matt Atkinson Matt, I love your lectures! You give history very well, while using some humor, which is refreshing. Some of the ones I've seen, the ranger simply read his cue cards in a very dry manor, and I could have read the cards myself and saved him the trouble. Keep up the good work
Wow that was awesome!! As an Australian ive always been fascinated with the US Civil War. This video is amazing in detail knowledge and enthusiasm. Thanks so much for sharing.
I've been to the Gettysburg battlefield five times and this video adds so much granular information that I never realized before. It seems that every time I visit the site, I learn something new. And that's a good thing.
Ranger Matt took my wife and I through Little Round Top in 2005. Best of the best!
Very vivid narrating - almost like being there in person.
Ranger Matt makes a great presentation, clearly communicating both sides and effectively bringing the days events to life. Early on he mentions sunsets from LRT are a sight to see. I concur. If you are visiting the park and the sky is right this is the place to be.
Through the years we have spent three evenings on LRT. Last time we were in the park in 2012 we made bit of a forced march, driving actually, from the cavalry battlefield to get here before the sunset. Was magnificent. We then walked in near darkness to the 20th Maine battle area. Hung out there a while after pitch dark. Was interesting being the only ones there in the dark. Kind of felt a deeper connection.
This guy is great! I would love to see Gettysburg,feel Gettysburg,Ranger Matt makes me feel like I'm there,if I ever get there I hope I get a tour guide like Matt!!!
The Park Service is well served and we are all honored by the efforts and knowledge of Mr. Atkinson.....Just a tremendous job of explaining a complicated and crucial piece of our history.
Nice job Matt - I appreciate and enjoy your passion, knowledge and honesty. Well done, sir.
Having watched a number of these videos, it is an easy call for me to make that Matt Atkinson is clearly well studied in what he tells people. Aside for some minor points about Co B's participation, I can find no fault with his presentation. Clearly he is the best of his class. I would love to know his academic background and to have a sitdown with him, he is that well prepared and a credit to his occupation.
I watched a video not to long ago "Sacred Trust Talks 2013: Matt Atkinson" The lady introducing him mentions he was getting his degree in history. A bachelor or Masters I can't remember. I would have to watch it again. His thesis at the time was on one of the battles in the civil war.
@@TheTravelingCamper If he's writing a thesis that indicates post-grad work, right? IIRC in a video on Hancock he say's he's an Ol' Miss product... don't quote me on that.
Matt is superb at his job!! I've studied Civil war History for 55 years, and he taught me some details about July 2 I didn't know.
I'm a huge history nerd and love the Civil War. I've not yet been to Gettysburg but it's on my list at the tippity top. I can not wait to visit. After watching this, I dearly hope Ranger Atkinson is still there. To Ranger Matt Atkinson: your tour was highly informative and exceedingly humorous. Thank you so much. Sitting in my bedroom in New York City watching this at 2:30am I felt like I was there. If you're still doing tours when I finally get there one day I owe you a beer - Guy Trotter.
Last I've heard several years ago, he's still an employee of Gettysburg NPS. Idk about now?? May still be??
Absolutely the best presentation of Little Round top I have ever seen! Bravo, sir! And thank you!
Thanks Matt Atkinson for changing up the battlefield walk by the loop for me. I love watching all the GNPS Rangers on video. Talking about areas of the battlefield but from what I seen your the best. It was really nice that you walked a different way while telling the group about Kershaw's assault. Do to I being in a wheelchair and couldn't get to some locations. Hope to talk another tour of the battlefield with you. And keep up the good videos here on You Tube. Doug Torborg
that is the single most outstanding account of Gettysburg i have heard since Shelby Foote;
don’t think there are any two better;
vettevet2002 I like Shelby, he's cool
@@randyhutchinson9910 He was a walking encyclopedia.
May he rest in peace.
Mississippi boy's!
Nicely done Matt! That was a very entertaining and informative presentation.
I visited the park in the 90s and I still remember the hairs on the back of my neck standing up for all the suffering and death that happend there
Matt, on a magnificent spring afternoon ten days ago my wife and I joined your group for this same Little Round Top presentation. You are a credit to the staff of the NPS. Most importantly we want to encourage you to KEEP YOUR NEW BEARD!
Wonderful narration of what happened in the region of little round too...loved walking in the area of that section of that battle even though we are not from the USA...thanks Matt..
I knew alot about the battle but learned more in this video than from any book I've read. Certainly helps to see the battlefield to put it all in perspective.
I'm glad I found this. this guy holds your attention well
Excellent! The NPR was very knowledgable, professional and with the right amount of humor.
This guy is one hell of a great narrator. I have to get back to Pa and visit this iconic site and take his tour before I am too old to appreciate. Thank you so very much for the video. This is most interesting and provides much more than I have derived from books and other videos. I just hope this park ranger is paid very, very well.
+robert glenn He has a passion for the history of Gettysburg. Combined with a reverence for the men who fell, makes for an excellent presentation. I hung on every word he said. I am a New Englander, and Joshua Chamberlain is a favorite son.
Mercy. This guide certainly is knowledgable
Thank you, sir
Just gonna say that guy is a rude *** for keeping this foot on the rock and then sitting on it after the ranger was incredibly polite in his attempt to get him off it.
Awesome! you just watched over an hour of a wonderful presentation of the battle around little round top and you comment about the guy at the rock... That left the biggest impression with you?
It's a rock. It's not a big deal. What I find offensive is that this jackass of a park ranger thinks he's a damned comedian, and he's NOT the least bit funny. Many thousands of American died here, so it's NOT a place to be making stupid jokes!
Joe Venuti get a grip you have more important things to bother about now
@@joevenuti1201 its history jackass....we remember and never forget. this is simply a way of keeping the people focused and entertained. stfu....we know people died here 150+ yrs ago..no need for your brilliant facts
My take on this incident was that the ranger wanted to forewarn the guy not to climb up on the rock. That would be a health and legal liability in case the guy fell or tripped.
Chamberlain and Spear were in fact good friends (Spear a best friend of Chamberlain's dead brother) during their whole lives. After Chamberlain's death, Spear took issue with some of Chamberlains descriptions of 2 battles in published magazines. Unknown to Spear, so did Chamberlain! The magazines had, in editing, added a lot of fluff. The Bayonet charge was probably one of those fluffs. Had Chamberlain lived and they got together to speak of it, no doubt an understanding would have been had of the evils of journalism and editors. Bottom line, 20th Main charged, Alabamans were overrun even if they were pulling back. Great presentation, I loved the humor. So many details, only deep reading can give you a probabilistic overview which the Ranger so well pointed out several times. I would enjoy his tour immensely and thank him for this video!
Fantastic show by Matt Atkinson! I'm a huge civil war buff and it's been a dream trip of mine to visit Gettysburg someday.
u got to go. its worth the time and some
I’ve been twice and it’s amazing , I’ve never been to Antetiam
You must go. You will feel something throughout your heart and soul that you have never ever felt before.
Any park ranger who can work a quote from The Doors into his presentation is aces in my book.
C Wloszczyna watch Matt’s Devil’s Den tour...he managed to get in a Cheech and Chong reference! He’s a great ranger with a hell of a sense of humor.
. . . you can petition the Lord with prayer !
@@vinniemigliano4203 and a Seinfeld Soup Nazi " No soup for you"
Matt Atkinson's tour brought everything together; entertaining and educational.
Wow! Great job by Matt Atkinson. I got the ' I'm there' feeling and enjoyed every minute of the video
Love the Jim Morrison quote, Ranger Matt.
Park Ranger Matt commands my attention. And what detail! I seriously doubt I will ever visit the battlefield. But this is the next best thing. He puts us right into the action. War is all hell. And Matt takes us there...literally.
awesome. simply awesome. May never get to the field and see it but this is great stuff. Thanks you Matt
That was such great story telling. Thank you for posting this and thank you Ranger Matt Atkinson for your colorful and historical descriptions of the events at Gettysburg!
This guy is an incredible educator! As a Brit who came to the US nearly 30 years ago, I now live about 25 miles from Gettysburg, and have spent many hours taking photos of the battlefield. Little Round Top is my favourite place there - the history almost oozes from the ground! I have read many books on the battle, but I have never seen a presentation as good as this one! Just subscribed, and I will be following these historic videos...
Matt Atkinson is very good here and his lecture at the Devil's Den is very good also.
Thank you Matt and your fellow Rangers for keeping the history real, entertaining and interesting!
I could listen to this guy all day, great knowledge and storytelling.
Have just discovered these videos - and am working my way through them. Especially enjoy Ranger Matt Atkinson's walks and descriptions. Really feel like you are there when he talks.
Ranger Atkinson is a national resource! Enthralling, I couldn't stop watching! Subscribed and will be watching more of him. Outstanding.
Having just now watch 05/01/2019 I truly enjoy the walk through the National Parks Service provides. As I am over 19 hours from your location. As a disable Veteran, that uses a walker, even if I could make it to you, I would not be able to enjoy the tour as I am enjoying with all the many videos that I have recently found. All the many Rangers I have seen and have enjoyed. My heart felt thanks
Ranger Matt, you are a great story teller, I enjoyed your interaction with the child. He will never forget you...
I've been to Gettysburg a couple of times and enjoyed my visit's very much!
Very informative. I've visited there in 13 but this lecture ties it all together. Thanks for posting.
Very enjoyable. This man brought history back to life for everyone there. Even little Tanner. Great job
Excellent through description of Little Round Top. Easy to follow the story all the way to the end.
What an excellent presentation. I haven't been to this battlefield in years...I need to go back again.
That really helps you understand what defining events that happened at the battle of Gettysburg! Battle for high ground and flanking! Thank you Ranger Matt, you can tell you genuinely care!
Wonderful exposition of a complicated scenario. Kudos to Ranger Matt.
A phenomenal place. Love to hear the background stories. My family and I had an awesome supernatural experience - I am not lying. I soak this up like a sponge
Ranger Matt was incredible wealth of information here!
very good job Matt..Thank you...I am so glad I finally got to see little round top..
I'm here in 2020 on the Anniversary weekend of Gettysburg, and here again, because of our favorite Ranger, Matt. I also watch "StuffWriter" vids, but anything Matt, is the greatest. My favorite part of U.S. History, I never tire of Civil War history, never tire of Gettysburg.
This guy is amazing.
Great presentation about the rocky little hill. So many heroes on the Union side, Warren, Vincent, O' Rourke, Hazlett, Weed as well as Chamberlain. Killers Angles only tells part of the struggle for Little Round Top of Chamberlain and his 20th Maine. An important part, for sure but the others stories are equally important but far less familiar to modern viewers, .
Nobody talks about the 1st Minnesota, according to Hancock the most important action of the battle
I visited the same spots and came away with not 1/10th the understanding of them as provided by the venerable Mr. Atkinson. But I was impressed to see cadets from West Point being guided by their own instructor explaining to them the importance of the battle and those locations. Although I did not have a clear understanding myself, it was quite impressive to see their reverence for what happened at Little Round Top.
Excellent presentation. He brought up many facets few of us knew about regarding the 2nd day. Many thanks.
General John Buford, played by Sam Elliott, said that it was lovely ground and it certainly appears lovely from this vantage point.
I wouldn't know if Gen. Buford would have meant the esthetic beauty (yes it is) or the military value, but I'm assuming the latter, as the character Devin then says "best ground I've seen all day."
fantastic job!!! i have listened to this talk several times!! hope to see more videos from Matt!
Just watching these vids at the moment, great presentation, great subject knowledge by the Ranger.
Looking forward to watching some more.
What an awesome video. Kudos to the Park Ranger that did such a fine job.
I watched this video while at Little Round Top and Devil's Den this past weekend of July 4th 2018. Superb job! Thank you.