News Release

Civil War Defenses of Washington to host a Juneteenth commemoration at Fort Reno Park

Date: June 11, 2025
Contact: Autumn Cook, 771-215-6954

WASHINGTON – Join the National Park Service (NPS) on the historic grounds of Fort Reno on June 19, for a special event, “Remember Reno City” to commemorate Juneteenth. The NPS will also unveil a new wayside exhibit that was created in collaboration with students from Jackson-Reed High School.  

Event Highlights:  
The commemoration kicks off at 10 a.m. with a formal program featuring Ward 3 Councilman Matthew Frumin who will share insights into the significance of Juneteenth. Keynote speaker, historian and author, Neil Flanagan will provide an in-depth history of Reno City. The event will feature a descendant of Reno City and an African dance and music tribute by Hands on Drums.  

After the formal program, which concludes at noon, stay for arts and crafts and a Junior Ranger activity. 

Getting There:
There is limited parking available near Fort Reno around 4000 Chesapeake Street NW. The park is a short distance from the Tenleytown-American University metro station.

Media Attendance:  
Media representatives are invited to attend and cover this special event. Please RSVP via email by June 18 and for additional information or to schedule interviews.

About Reno City:  
Reno City roots began during the Civil War when Giles Dyer’s plantation occupied the high point in the city of Washington, making it a logical site for a Union fort. Fort Reno quickly became refuge for African Americans. In 1869, developers laid out the Reno subdivision and lots were sold. For many decades Reno City was a thriving community with homes, churches, school, lodges, a grocery store and a cemetery. In the 1930s Reno City was converted into public lands. Buildings were demolished, and its people departed. The only remnant of Reno City that exists today is the fire hydrant sitting in the middle of the ballfield. 
 

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About the National Park Service:  More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for more than 430+ national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.