Fort Washington: From Revolution to Evolution

Experience historic weapons demonstrations at Fort Washington

NPS/ MF

Saturday, August 22nd
1:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Did you know the War of 1812 is often called America’s “second war of independence”? It marked the young nation’s second major conflict with Great Britain and helped solidify the United States’ place on the world stage.

The National Park Service (NPS) invites you to explore the compelling military history that shaped the nation during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 at Fort Washington Park. Throughout the day, immerse yourself in hands-on activities and demonstrations that highlight the fort’s early defensive role and the evolution of military technology leading into the 19th century.

Experience history in motion as living history groups portray soldiers, sailors, and civilians connected to both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Their demonstrations offer an immersive glimpse into the traditions, daily life, and military innovations that defined these foundational conflicts.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness early American military heritage come alive—and to discover how the fight for independence continued long after 1776.

Admission: FREE and Open to the Public!

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(NPS)

Schedule of Activities

Artillery Demonstrations
1:30 pm, and 5:00 pm

Experience the power and precision of historic artillery as trained interpreters fire period cannons using authentic 19th‑century procedures. Each demonstration highlights the skill, coordination, and safety practices behind operating these formidable weapons, offering visitors an up‑close look at the fort’s military past.

Thomas Digges: Traitor or Patriot?
2:00 pm

Explore the complicated legacy of Thomas A Digges, a man George Washington once called friend and neighbor, yet whom Benjamin Franklin publicly denounced as an embezzler. This talk guides visitors through the primary‑source evidence behind Digges’ conflicting reputation, revealing how one landowner’s choices during the Revolution continue to spark debate today.

School of the Soldier
2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:00 pm

Kids step back in time as they learn the basics of drill, discipline, and teamwork just like early American soldiers did. Through hands‑on practice and lively instruction, young recruits experience how historic armies trained to move, march, and work together.

Fife and Drum Music with the Fort McHenry Guard
2:45 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm

Hear the stirring sound of early American martial music as the Fort McHenry Guard fife and drum corps brings historic rhythms to life with crisp fifing and resonant drumbeats. Their performance offers an authentic glimpse into the musical traditions that once guided soldiers on the march.

Ship's Company Chanteymen
6:00 pm

For more than two decades, the Ship’s Company Chanteymen have brought the wild, rhythmic, and spirited work songs of 18th‑ and 19th‑century sailors to audiences up and down the East Coast, sharing the same chanteys crews once used to row in time, heave at the capstan, or chase away long nights at sea. Their rollicking tunes, sing‑along choruses, and salty storytelling offer a lively, immersive glimpse into maritime life

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Getting to Fort Washington Park

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.

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Accessibility

Mobility/Physical

This event will take place in the old Fort. It is a mostly grassy surface with a level dirt path in the center. The Fort is about a quarter mile from the parking lot and the path is paved and accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Handicapped accessible restrooms are located in the Visitor Center, which sits between the Fort and the parking lot.

Deaf/Hard of Hearing

American Sign Language interpreters will be present and available upon request to assist whoever needs them.

Blind/Vision Loss

Braille copies of the park brochure are available upon request in the Visitor Center. The event will consist of many stations where you can talk to a historic reenactor. It will also have musket and cannon demonstrations and a musical performance to listen to.

Cognitive/Learning Disabilities

The musket and cannon firing programs do contain very loud noises and smoke. Staff will provide warnings when the loud noises are coming, but they can still be quite startling.