Meet Tim Kinlock from Maryland

American Battlefield Trust: What moved you to first give to our organization?

Tim: In 1988, when I was recovering from major surgery, my wife Patti gave me a copy of Michael Shaara's The Killer Angels. This prompted me to see more clearly the significance of the battle of Gettysburg for both sides, how the Union victory played a major role in helping win the war and save the nation, and better understand the perspectives of the soldiers involved, both North and South. Shortly afterward, Patti and I began an annual tradition of visiting Gettysburg several times a year, as well as seeing other battlefields, including Antietam, Monocacy, Fort Donelson, and Chattanooga.

Over the years, we became increasingly aware of battlefields and other historic sites being threatened by housing developments, shopping malls, and, in Gettysburg, the prospect of having a casino on or within sight of the battlefield. We learned of the Civil War Trust's mission from the “No Casino” campaigns in Gettysburg. This prompted me to contribute to the Trust and eventually become a member and ultimately a Color Bearer.

What do you enjoy most about being a Color Bearer?

It is having the opportunity to preserve the land where soldiers fought and died in the wars where our nation earned and maintained its independence. It is also attending events such as conferences and tours to learn more about historic sites–what happened there and the reasons why it is important, not just today, but for future generations–and what land is threatened and the ways in which it can be saved.

What is your favorite battlefield you’ve visited?

Gettysburg National Military Park.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

In the U.S., I would like to see the Grand Canyon, Vicksburg National Military Park, and Mackinac Island, MI. Outside of the U.S., I would like to visit the United Kingdom and western Europe.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

Abraham Lincoln, because he contributed so much toward preserving our nation, ending slavery, and intending to unite North and South.

Anything else you want to share?

The Trust is excellent in everything it does – hosting conferences, battlefield tours, and education. Education is crucial because students can get a more direct sense of what happened  by going to the battlefields themselves – going beyond what they can read about in books or see on television or the Internet. In addition, students can also more precisely understand the significance of preserving hallowed ground.