PCK in place and with a purpose: a case of historic site-based professional development on hallowed ground at Gettysburg

Purpose This paper aims to describe a professional development workshop designed to enhance teachers' pedagogical content knowledge. Design/methodology/approach The program draws on a carefully articulated definition of pedagogical knowledge as elaborated by Shulman, and features the work of scholars focused on pushing new interpretations of the meaning of Gettysburg, especially in polarized political times. Findings Teacher participants have been found to draw new meaning from their visit that, for many, has had a profound impact on the way they make sense of Gettysburg as a historic site of political importance. Originality/value The program offers a model for professional development providers interested in enhancing the pedagogical content knowledge of teachers and engaging them in examination of the past for the purpose of re-examining contemporary political concerns.