Military Through the Ages

October 4th, 2025
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

The National Park Service (NPS) invites you to celebrate 250 years of US Army history at Fort Washington Park! This historic event honors the rich history of Fort Washington, which has stood as a guardian of the Potomac River since its completion in 1824. Throughout the day, engage in various activities that highlight the fort's military legacy and the evolution of military technology over the past two centuries.

Experience history come alive as different living history groups showcase various eras of military history in authentic clothing. From the War of 1812 to World War II, these skilled historians will provide an immersive glimpse into the past, sharing stories and demonstrating the traditions of each period. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the evolution of military heritage!

Admission: FREE and Open to the Public!

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(NPS)

Schedule of Activities

All events listed below will be held inside the historic fort.

10:00 am - 10:15 am: Cannon demonstration

10:15 am - 10:30 am: Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum performance

10:30 am - 11:10 am: Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society interactive program

11:00 am - 11:45 am: Endicott Battery Talk by Terry McGovern of the Coast Defense Study Group

12:00 pm - 12:15 pm: Cannon demonstration

12:15 pm - 12:30 pm: Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum performance

12:30 pm - 1:10 pm: Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society interactive program

1:50 pm - 2:00 pm: Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum performance

2:00 pm - 2:40 pm: Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society interactive program

2:30 pm - 3:15 pm: War of 1812: The Sacking of Alexandria by Ranger Alex Calta

3:15 pm - 4:00 pm: Musical performance by Hardtack and Sea Biscuit

4:00 pm - 4:15 pm: Cannon demonstration

Children's activities and Scavenger Hunt will be offered throughout the day.

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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.