Where History Meets Illusion
Descend into the candlelit basement of the Historic Farnsworth House Inn and journey back to the 1860s for an evening of wonder, mystery, and history. Hosted by the renowned 'Professor Kerrigan' – illusionist Joe Kerrigan, with over 55 years of performing experience – this live show recreates the magic that astonished audiences during the Civil War era. Set within the brick walls that once sheltered Confederate sharpshooters, the performance blends Victorian showmanship with the curious illusions of the 19th century. Equal parts theater and time travel, it’s a spellbinding experience that completes any Gettysburg visit.
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$15 USD
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All ages welcome
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1 hour
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Pennsylvania, United States
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Gettysburg
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- Civil War-Era Illusions
- Intimate Basement Theater
- Professional Magician
- Family-Friendly Show
- Authentic Historic Venue
- Victorian Showmanship
- Educational Entertainment
- Perfect for History Lovers
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- Admission to the live Civil War era magic show with historic interpretation by Professor Kerrigan.
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- Casual or period-appropriate attire recommended; cameras welcome for post-show photos.
A Civil War Era Magic Show… LIVE! Features
Historic Magic Performance
Experience authentic Civil War-era illusions performed in the intimate basement of Gettysburg’s most historic inn.
Professional Magician & Historian
Marvel at 'Professor Kerrigan’s' period-style illusions and stories from decades on stage and television appearances.
Immersive Historic Atmosphere
Enjoy a show set in a genuine 19th-century cellar with flickering lamplight and authentic Civil War ambience.
A Civil War Era Magic Show… LIVE! Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
-
Civil War-Era Illusions
-
Intimate Basement Theater
-
Professional Magician
-
Family-Friendly Show
-
Authentic Historic Venue
-
Victorian Showmanship
-
Educational Entertainment
-
Perfect for History Lovers
Description
Hidden beneath the streets of Gettysburg lies a theater like no other. In 'A Civil War Era Magic Show… LIVE!' guests step into the basement of the Farnsworth House Inn – a home scarred by battle and haunted by stories – to experience the wonders of Victorian-era illusion. Led by Joe 'Professor' Kerrigan, whose career includes performances on the Travel Channel, History Channel, and even the White House, the show weaves sleight of hand, storytelling, and history into a captivating hour of entertainment. Families, history buffs, and magic enthusiasts alike will find themselves enchanted by this rare peek into how illusions once amazed soldiers and civilians alike during America’s most pivotal era.
Itinerary
6:45 PM – Guests arrive and descend into the historic basementn7:00 PM – Professor Kerrigan welcomes the audience and introduces Civil War-era magicn7:15 PM – Interactive illusions and storytelling performancen7:45 PM – Finale and photo opportunities with the Professor
Price & Availability
Adults $15 | Children $7 (Under 7). Duration 1 hour. All sales final; non-refundable tickets.
Food & Drink
No food or drink served during the show. Guests may dine before or after in Sweney’s Tavern upstairs.
Instructions
Check in at Historic Farnsworth House Inn, 401 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, PA. Arrive 10 minutes before showtime. Street and lot parking available nearby.
Restrictions
All ages welcome. Accessible via stairs to the basement performance space. Show includes historical storytelling and dim lighting for authentic ambience.
Transportation
Transportation not included. Parking available near the Farnsworth House Inn and Gettysburg Historic District.







