Smoke billows from a cannon by four uniformed men
Cannon firing with smoke
Volunteers in Civil War Union Army uniforms drilling on the cannon.

Artillery Demonstration

Fort Washington Park

  • Monthly on the first Sunday at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM from May 04, 2025 to November 02, 2025
  • Free
Step back in time and watch Union soldiers fire a cannon!

 

Learn about the process of loading and firing a Civil War era cannon with Fort Washington staff and volunteers. A Ranger will explain each step as its happening. Rangers and volunteers will be available after the demonstration to answer questions. 
 
Rangers will be available to interpret a section of the Officers' Quarters and barracks after the demonstration.

There will be civil war uniforms worn by living historians, interpreting the story of Fort Washington in costume via the third-person. After the demonstration, when it is safe to do so, visitors can come and have a hands on experience with the cannon.

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This demonstration will involve loud noises, similar to that of a firework. Rangers will give a warning to cover your ears, but this program may not be right for people or dogs that are frightened by loud noises.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

Firing inside the historic fort.

Latitude and Longitude 38.711070, -77.034570

Schedule

Days:

Monthly on the first Sunday

Dates:

May 04, 2025 to November 02, 2025

Time:

1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM

Duration:

15 minutes

We fire two shots per demonstration. On the hour and approximately 10 minutes after the hours.

Contact Information

Barbara Wadding
771-208-1555 Wed-Sun
Contact Us

Event Type

  • Living History
  • Talk
  • Volunteer Event
Tags: artillery, historic weapons, historic weapons demonstrations, civil war, living history, living history days