July Fourth, 1862—At Sea

National Mall and Memorial Parks

  • Every day at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from November 16, 2026 to November 18, 2026
  • Free

What was Independence Day like aboard a sailing ship in the middle of the ocean? Join us for the story of six-year-old Sara Delano, future mother of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who spent 128 days at sea traveling to China in 1862. Drawn from a firsthand Roosevelt family journal, this talk reveals a world of tall ships, global voyages, and a Fourth of July celebration complete with cake, ice cream, and cannon fire.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial (meet the ranger in the bookstore exhibit area)

Schedule

Days:

Every day

Dates:

November 16, 2026 to November 18, 2026

Time:

11:00 AM, 2:00 PM

Duration:

30 minutes

Contact Information

Ranger Joe Mohr
(202) 426-6841

Event Type

  • Talk
Tags: franklin delano roosevelt