News Release

NPS to commemorate 200th anniversary of Fort Washington

Date: September 26, 2024
Contact: [e-mail]

FORT WASHINGTON, Md. — The National Park Service invites the public to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Fort Washington’s completion on October 5 with a day of historical reenactments, immersive tours, and special presentations highlighting the fort's rich history. Visitors will gain insight into the lives of soldiers who lived and worked at Fort Washington through historical music, reenactors, cannon firings, and more. Celebrate this significant milestone with a variety of activities, including art, dance, and history-focused programs that bring the past to life.

Fort Washington was constructed on land that was once part of the Piscataway capital, Moyaone, within the Piscataway ancestral homeland. This land still holds special significance to the Piscataway people. Fort Washington defended the Potomac River approach to Washington DC after Fort Warburton was destroyed in the War of 1812. The Fort was completed in 1824 and remained the only defense for the Nation’s Capital until the Civil War. Fort Washington served many important purposes from the War of 1812 to World War II which will be showcased throughout the event.

This is a free, family friendly event that will include engaging children’s activities. The event will take place from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information and a list of scheduled events, visit 200th Anniversary of Fort Washington - Fort Washington Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).

Getting to Fort Washington Park

13551 Fort Washington Road

Fort Washington, MD 20744

From I-95/495 take exit 3, Indian Head Highway South/MD 210. Travel about 4 miles to Fort Washington Road, turn right. The park is located at the end of the road.

From Waldorf, MD: MD228 to Indian Head Highway/MD210 North. Turn left onto Old Fort Road. Continue to end of road, at the stop sign turn left onto Fort Washington Road, continue to park entrance.