Second, perhaps, to only the Codori Farm, the 134-acre Trostle Farm ranks as one of the most famous farms on the battlefield, its barn prominently displaying a shell hole. It is located on what is today United States Avenue and is owned by the NPS; the Trostle heirs sold the farm in 1899.
The farm was owned by Peter Trostle. His son Abraham, Abraham’s wife Catherine, and their nine children were living here at the time of the battle. Attacking Confederate troops forced Union troops to retreat through the farm buildings. The 9th Massachusetts battery was nearly annihilated by the 21st Mississippi near the farm buildings. The barn is one of eight Pennsylvania style bank barns extant in Gettysburg National Military Park, and is the only brick gabled barn still extant. It has undergone repairs and adaptations, including major alterations of the stable area to accommodate a dairy operation. Part of the west elevation collapsed and was replaced with a wood frame and siding. The threshing floor has been altered with post-war planking. The barn is representative of the more elaborate style of barns which one existed in Adams County.
The farm was the site of General Sickles headquarters; his wounding site is located near the barn. Additionally, a gorgeous swamp oak witness tree can be found across from the barn.
A photograph taken shortly after the battle of the Trostle House.
