News Release

157th Anniversary Events at Monocacy National Battlefield

Living history volunteers demonstrate artillery drills at Monocacy National Battlefield.

NPS

News Release Date: July 6, 2021

Contact: Jana Friesen McCabe, 301-471-0322

FREDERICK, Md. – What were the most popular songs during the Civil War? How loud is a cannon? And did Civil War soldiers really eat hardtack? Find out the answers to these questions and more on July 9 and 10 at Monocacy National Battlefield. To commemorate the 157^th anniversary of the Battle of Monocacy, the National Park Service will host a variety of special events and programs.

On Friday, July 9, rangers will conduct two caravan-style battlefield tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Participants should meet at the Visitor Center and plan to follow the ranger in their own vehicles to visit other sites on the battlefield. Participants should bring water and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Sunscreen and hats are recommended. Call 301-662-3515 or e-mail us to request ASL interpretation on the tours, please allow 48-hours advanced notice.

On Saturday, July 10, experience Civil War music, artillery demonstrations and ranger programs at the Visitor Center between 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Living history interpreters will bring the experiences and lives of Civil War soldiers to life at the Best Farm and other stops on the driving tour. ASL interpreters will be present at the Visitor Center for programs. Additional ASL interpretation provided with 48-hours advanced notice.

Event Schedule:
Friday, July 9: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. – Ranger led caravan-style battlefield tour. Meet at the visitor center.
Saturday, July 10: Educational programs at the Visitor Center

• 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. — Civil War period music
• 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. — Artillery demonstration
• 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. — Ranger program

Best Farm, Worthington Farm, Thomas Farm, and Gambrill Mill

• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Union and Confederate infantry living historians, rangers, and volunteers will tell visitors about the military action, civilian experience, and historic homes.

The Monocacy National Battlefield Visitor Center is located at 5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, Md.

Consistent with CDC recommendations, people who are not yet fully vaccinated must continue to wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces. Individuals looking to get COVID-19 vaccine can visit vaccines.gov or text their zip code to 438829 to find a location close to them and make an appointment.