He dreamed of working in Gettysburg, now he’ll lead the Gettysburg Foundation

Wayne E. Motts, CEO of Harrisburg’s National Civil War Museum for the last nine years, and licensed guide at the Gettysburg National Military Park for 33 years, has been chosen to become president of the Gettysburg Foundation.

The Foundation owns and operates the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center in partnership with Gettysburg National Military Park, and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.  The organization’s Board of Directors named Motts to lead its preservation and educational mission, including the Rupp House History Center, the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital and the Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station.

“We are proud to have Wayne lead our operations into the future,” said Barbara Finfrock, co-chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, in a written statement announcing the appoitment. “Wayne has been a champion of Gettysburg for many years, and we are confident in his vast knowledge of history, leadership experience and talents as our new president.”

Motts, who previously served as executive director of the Adams County Historical Society in Gettysburg said he was honored by the appointment. “I look forward to working with the Foundation’s board, staff, volunteers and key partners— especially Gettysburg National Military Park and the Eisenhower National Historic Site—in advancing the Foundation’s mission,” he said in a statement. “As a small boy dreaming of one day living and working in Gettysburg, my life now comes full circle with this wonderful opportunity.”

Motts received his Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Military History from The Ohio State University and holds a Master of Arts in American History from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. He is also the author of several books and articles on the Civil war, including Trust in God and Fear Nothing: General Lewis A. Armistead and Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg: A Guide to the Most Famous Attack in American History, which he co-authored.

Motts has also appeared on numerous television documentaries.

“We are thrilled to welcome Wayne to our team, especially during this critical time as we emerge from the impact of the pandemic,” said Craig Bashein, co-chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “His enthusiasm and passion for sharing the importance of the Battle of Gettysburg in the greater context of the American Civil War and our country’s history, combined with his keen understanding of museum and nonprofit operations makes him an ideal candidate to join us as our new president.”

Motts will assume the responsibilities as the Foundation’s new president May 24, 2021.