For the first time in seven years, Civil War buffs can become licensed guides at Gettysburg, the famous battlefield – if they pass the challenging test, writes James Fanelli for The Wall Street Journal.

Later this month, Gettysburg National Military Park will administer an exam with near-legendary status among Civil War aficionados due to its difficulty. The test demands an encyclopedic understanding of the 1863 battle, including events leading up to the war and after.

Considering how coveted a spot as a guide is, competition is extremely tough. Some test takers spend years preparing for it and even move closer to the historic battlefield.

Michael Lentz moved from Colorado to central Pennsylvania in 2019 to prepare for the test, even without knowing when he would have the opportunity to take it. Since then, he has visited the park’s grounds hundreds of times, attended Civil War lectures and seminars, and read extensively about the three-day battle.

Still, he is not certain he will pass the exam, which contains up to 180 questions and requires writing three essays.

“There is always something more to learn,” he said.

Read more about the Civil War licensed guides test in The Wall Street Journal.