Monocacy National Battlefield Brings “The Battle That Saved Washington” To Life

Contact: NCR Communications

FREDERICK, Md. - Walk the ground where a small Federal force helped save the nation's capital.

Monocacy National Battlefield will commemorate the 162nd anniversary of the Civil War Battle of Monocacy with four days of free public programs July 9-12.

Known as "the battle that saved Washington," the July 9, 1864, battle delayed Confederate forces long enough for Federal reinforcements to reach Washington, D.C., and strengthen the city's defenses.

The annual commemoration gives visitors a chance to experience one of the Civil War's most consequential but often overlooked battles where it happened. Through guided tours, living history, demonstrations and guest presentations, visitors will learn how the fighting at Monocacy affected soldiers, civilians, Frederick County and the defense of Washington.

On July 9 and 10, visitors may join guided, accessible driving tours of the battlefield at a relaxed pace. Rangers will lead the caravan to key sites associated with the battle, with visitors driving their own vehicles from site to site, while learning about the events of July 1864 and their significance in the defense of Washington.

On July 11 and 12, visitors of all ages can take part in ranger-led tours, living history camps, infantry and artillery demonstrations, a Civil War field hospital experience presented by the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and presentations by guest speakers.

No reservations are required. All programs are free. Check out the park's calendar: https://www.nps.gov/mono/planyourvisit/calendar.htm for the latest details.

The Battle of Monocacy took place July 9, 1864, during the third and final Confederate campaign into Maryland. Confederate forces under Lt. Gen. Jubal Early advanced toward Washington to threaten the capital and draw Federal attention away from other fronts. Federal forces under Maj. Gen. Lew Wallace fought at Monocacy to slow that advance. Although Federal troops withdrew from the field, their stand bought critical time for reinforcements to arrive in Washington.

Visitors are encouraged to attend the anniversary programs, walk the battlefield, speak with rangers and living historians and reflect on how the actions taken at Monocacy shaped the final year of the Civil War.

These events support the National Park Service Freedom 250 initiative, which connects the stories of parks and communities to the nation's continuing journey toward freedom, civic engagement and stewardship.

Monocacy National Battlefield preserves, protects and commemorates the landscape, historic structures, archeological sites and monuments that contribute to the national significance of the Battle of Monocacy. The park also provides opportunities for visitors to understand and appreciate the significance of the Battle of Monocacy within the full context of the Civil War and American history. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/mono.

NPS

About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.