National Mall and Memorial Parks U.S. Department of the Interior Newspaper • FREE National Mall August 2010 • Volume 3, Issue 8 and Memorial Parks

Daily Interpretive Programs Damn the Torpedoes, full speed ahead!

By Ranger Brad Berger Tennessee, the most formidable obstacle in sight after . The stifling heat of a late- It was at this time that astonished summer morning along the Gulf onlookers from both sides of the Coast settled on the shores of affair saw the Tecumseh suddenly . The humidity weighed shudder, lurch to its port (left) heavily on the frames of the troops and sink beneath the waters of guarding this extremely important Mobile Bay. Captain Craven took stretch of coastline. a calculated risk in moving away Join National Park Service rangers Shortly before 7 a.m., on Friday, from the breach in the torpedo to learn more about the meaning, August 5, 1864, the Confederate chain, ultimately resulting in tragic symbolism, and significance of the artillerymen manning the guns consequences. park’s many memorials. No prior sign-up is required, and all programs of Fort Morgan noticed a large This turn of events froze are free. Program length varies. For body of ships moving toward the blood in the veins of the crew more information contact a ranger at their position through the early aboard the USS , the each memorial. morning haze. The air’s heavy lead wooden ship which stalled Programs are offered at the following stillness was broken by a shot at this horrific sight. Signal flags memorials… from the USS Tecumseh, a single- reported to the ships that followed • World War II Memorial turreted of Admiral in its wake, that Tecumseh had • Lincoln Memorial David Glasgow Farragut’s 18-ship struck a torpedo (or mine in • Memorial flotilla, in an attempt to find the modern military terminology.) • Vietnam Veterans Memorial cannon’s range. Shortly thereafter, Admiral The lethargy of the Brooklyn • Korean War Veterans Memorial the lead elements of the flotilla placed the remaining ships of • Franklin Delano Roosevelt navy, the Confederate government Memorial began to engage the batteries of Farragut’s command in peril. If Fort Morgan. Admiral Farragut in Richmond would have a vital the Federal flotilla did not move Scheduled Programs are presented on employed the use of four virtually supply depot cut off. forward past the potential danger the hour from: impregnable ironclad monitors At half past seven, the of the torpedoes, the guns of Fort to serve as starboard (right-hand) Federal fleet was fully engaged Morgan would surely finish them 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. screens for his wooden fleet of 14 with the guns of Fort Morgan off. At this juncture, it is said as they lumbered past the **Additional programs on request. vessels, lashed together in pairs that Admiral Farragut asserted to ensure that any damaged vessel Confederate citadel. The lead his intentions plainly to his fleet monitor, the Tecumseh, trundled Contents would be carried past the fortress by issuing the immortal words: by the momentum of its sister ship. toward the small Confederate “Damn the Torpedoes, full speed fleet which defended the waters Page 2, 3, 4...Calendar of Events Admiral Farragut’s goal in ahead!” Unlike Captain Craven’s Page 4...... How to Visit the forcing this attempt of his fleet past Fort Morgan. Captain Tunis bold maneuver, Farragut’s decision Monument past Fort Morgan was the ultimate Craven moved his ship away from proved successful. As the wooden Cell Phone Tours a narrow passage through the Page 5...... Ranger Article from page 1 sealing of the port of Mobile, fleet made its way into the lower Eastern National Alabama to blockade runners. chain that marked the torpedo bay in the wake of the monitors, Bookstores, Park These were vessels laden with field which defended the bay. This their crews could hear the thud Concessionaires action moved Tecumseh toward Page 6...... Ranger Article cargo from foreign ports which of torpedoes striking the hulls of Page 7...... Kids’ Column served to clothe and equip the more uncertain waters with a their ships. Miraculously, none of Page 8...... Superintendent’s Confederate armies. If Mobile Bay view to approach and engage the the torpedoes exploded. Message, Old Post Office massive Confederate ironclad CSS Tower, Potomac Nature fell into the hands of the Federal With the Federal fleet now Packs, NPS Organic Act, NEW Lincoln Memorial Berger Continued on page 5 Webpage

National Mall Highlights Inside and Memorial Parks 900 Ohio Drive, SW Washington, DC 20024 This newspaper is also Happy Park Headquarters: 202-485-9880 available online. The Burning of Visitor Information: 202-233-3520 Visit www.nps.gov/nama Washington Birthday NPS Park Websites: www.nps.gov/nama www.nps.gov/mall and click on NEWS. PAGE 6 PAGE 7 6 7 National Mall Plan Website: Editor In Chief: Jason Martz www.nps.gov/nationalmallplan Editors: Mike Leard, Stephanie Ortiz Radio: 1670 AM

August 2010, Volume 3 Issue 8 National Mall Times 1 Don’t Forget... Daily ranger programs presented at the memorials, every hour from AUGUST 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 10 a.m. 6 p.m. 10 a.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 6 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 1 p.m.

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 10 a.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 8 p.m. 3 p.m. 6 p.m.

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 1 p.m. 10 a.m. 10 a.m. 8 a.m. 8 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 8 a.m. 10 a.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 11 a.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 1 p.m. 8 p.m.

To learn more about the , 29 30 31 the Chesapeake Cam- 11 a.m. paign and the please visit the Star 1 p.m. Spangled Banner National 6 p.m. Historical Trail website at www.nps.gov/stsp.

Friday, August 6, 13 and how it helped turn the tide rial. Contact Jan Buerger at 202- Programs World War II in eastern Europe. Meet at the 497-1397. Operations & Vehicles World War II Memorial. Contact 7 p.m - 8 p.m. Paul O’Brian at 202-438-7066. Thursday August 19 Monday, August 2, 9 The Foreign Policy The Navajo Code Talkers The operations and vehicles of Saturday, August 14 of Thomas Jefferson of World War II World War II proved critical for Masterpieces of 10 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. the United States’ rendezvous with World War II Photography 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. destiny. We will view bronze time- 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. In World War II the commanders line panels and era photographs to Thomas Jefferson is a fascinating in the Pacific theater were aware learn about the Pacific and Atlan- Some of the great masterpieces of character in American History. that their encoded messages were tic battle zones. Meet at the World photography are images related This citizen of the world explored easily deciphered by the enemy. War II Memorial. Contact Victor to the victories of World War II. that world before serving as Presi- The Marine Corps needed an un- Pillow at 202-841-1774. They recall the conflict, the stakes, dent, but just how effective was breakable code and found one in and the heroes who left proof of his administration at relating to it? the language of the Navajo Indi- Saturday, August 7 their honor and valor for posterity. Meet at the Thomas Jefferson Me- ans. The Navajo Code Talker’s The Battle of Guadalcanal Meet at the World War II Memo morial. Contact David Hoffman at devotion to their craft made them 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. 202-233-3520. invaluable. Meet at the World War II Memorial. Contact Tyler Smith The Battle of Guadalcanal was a at 202-233-3520. major turning point in the War of the Pacific in 1942. It developed Thursday, August 5 & 12 into a six-month campaign where Roosevelt, Churchill, hard lessons were learned by both and Spy Games the American and Japanese forc- 10 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. – es. Find out what the Americans 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. learned from this campaign. Meet at the World War II Memorial. The espionage programs of world Contact Paul O’Brian at 202-438- powers grew a great deal during 7066. the lives of Franklin Delano Roos- evelt and Winston Churchill. Was Thursday, August 12 it portentous for future decades or Stalingrad: Struggle on the Volga a necessary measure? Meet at the 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. World War II Memorial. Contact David Hoffman at 202-233-3520. The Battle of Stalingrad was a ti- tantic clash between the German and Soviet forces. Find out the significance of this engagement

2 National Mall Times Saturday, August 21 Friday, August 6 Douglas MacArthur: Urban Campfire Programs “We shall return” 8:30 p.m. – 9:15 p.m. 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. As the sun sets on a day of vis- When General Douglas MacAr- iting the Nation’s Capital, join thur evacuated the Phililppine National Park Service rangers as Islands, he proclaimed “We shall we present another season of Ur- return.” Another famous Ma- ban Campfire programs on the cArthur quotes is engraved in the grounds of the majestic Washing- World War II Memorial. Find out ton Monument! This four-week what his words meant. Meet at session of programs will be pre- the World War II Memorial. Con- sented with accompanying illus- tact Paul O’Brian at 202-438-7066. trations on a wide screen draping the stage of the Sylvan Theater. Friday, August 27 This summer’s theme is “Ranger Heroes or Outlaws? Grab Bag.” Find out what topics The Crime Wave of 1933-34 our talented rangers select when 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. you arrive! Only one thing is cer- tain: these programs are a great The great crime wave of 1933-34 way to cap off your day to Nation- Washington, D.C. Explore the sites Jefferson Memorial. Contact - Ja introduced America to such out- al Mall and Memorial Parks! Meet and stories behind the scandals son Martz at 202-438-4391 for laws as Bonnie and Clyde, John at the Sylvan Theater. Contact and intrigue here in the nation’s more information. Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson. Brad Berger at 202-438-4173. capital. Learn about the women at Learn how the Great Depression the epicenter of scandal that tore Sunday, August 22 spurred their criminal acts and led into the very fabric of democracy On This Date in History: to the creation of the modern day Bike Tours and union. Intrigued? You should The Burning of Washington FBI. Meet at the Franklin Delano be! Meet at the Thomas Jefferson 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Roosevelt Memorial. Contact Jon Sunday, August 1 Memorial. Contact Jason Martz at Manchester at 202-233-3520. World War II in Washington 202-438-4391. August 24, 1814 – After their vic- 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. tory at Bladensburg, the British Friday, August 27 Sunday, August 15 continued their march south along Lincoln’s Motivation Threats of assassination, air raids, Birthing a Nation Avenue and into the – Stephen Douglas and sabotage filtered through ev- 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. heart of the Federal City. British 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. ery layer of Washington society troops set fire to the U.S. Capitol and government during the uncer- Even as his monument towers building then proceeded up Penn- was a former tain years of 1941-1945. Explore above the city that bears his name, sylvania Avenue to the President’s congressman and prosperous Il- the sites of the Nation’s Capital the example of George Washing- House where a similar fate await- linois attorney in 1854. Then the through the words and thoughts ton towers above his peers in the ed the home of James and Dolly actions of Senator Stephen Doug- of those who led and served the founding days of this country. Madison. We will follow the path las caused him to re-enter poli- United States war effort during Join us as we journey through the of destruction from Capitol Hill, tics. Come hear how Abe Lincoln World War II. Meet at the Thomas birth pains of the United States along Pennsylvania Avenue, to the passed Stephen Douglas on the Jefferson Memorial. Contact - Ja of America through the eyes of President’s House, and culminat- way to the White House. Meet at son Martz at 202-438-4391. the men who gave life to an ideal. ing at . Meet at the Lincoln Memorial. Contact Meet at the Thomas Jefferson Me- the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. David Rappel at 202-359-1533. Saturday, August 7 morial. Contact Jason Martz at Contact Jason Martz at 202-438- Somebody’s Eyes are Watching 202-438-4391 for more informa- 4391. Saturday, August 28 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. tion. The Battle of Britain Saturday, August 28 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. Spies have been in or around Sunday, August 15 Famous Last Words Washington D.C. almost since it Family Bike Tour: Amazing 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. The Battle of Britain in 1940 meant was built. Learn tales of treachery Events in the Nation’s Capital that Great Britain would stay in that were both successful and di- 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. When George Washington left of- World War II. Find out why it also sastrous. Meet at the Thomas Jef- fice, he published a Farewell- Ad meant that Great Britain would ferson Memorial. Contact Jason Whoa... That happened here! This dress giving sound advice to future need assistance from the United Martz at 202-438-4391. tour will guide families through generations. As John Adams and States. Meet at the World War II the ages to discover exciting events Thomas Jefferson lay dying on July Memorial. Contact Paul O’Brian Sunday, August 8 that took place in and around the 4, 1826, they thought of the past at 202-438-7066. What Lies Beneath National Mall. From hot air bal- and each other. As Abraham Lin- 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. loons over the White House, to coln left Springfield, Illinois to be- Sunday, August 29 canal boats floating down Consti- come President, he expressed his Coming Home: Washington, D.C.’s modern sewer tution Avenue. Meet at the Thom- hopes and doubts to the friends The Allies Demobilize system is not so modern. It dates as Jefferson Memorial. Contact he left behind. In their parting 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1 p.m. – 2 p.m., back to the founding of the city Jason Martz at 202-438-4391 to words, famous Americans teach 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. and is one of the country’s oldest make reservations. eternal lessons, touch our hearts, systems. How did it come about? and give us hope. A few even make The victorious American veter- How does it save lives? Meet at Saturday, August 21 us laugh. Meet at the Thomas Jef- ans of World War II returned to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Performing Arts in D.C. ferson Memorial. Contact Jason a nation assuming its new role as Contact Jason Martz at 202-438- 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Martz at 202-438-4391. a global superpower. Discover 4391. how the “G.I. Generation” shaped Though Washington, D.C. is not Sunday, August 29 the destiny of the modern United Saturday, August 14 the Great White Way, the history Mr. Lincoln States. Meet at the World War II Those Shady Ladies of the performing arts in the city Goes to Washington Memorial. Contact Mike Leard at 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. is illustrious. Political assassina- 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 202-233-3520. tions, the civil rights movement, Mistresses, spies, and conspirators and other historical events have Discover the Federal City that Lin- have been the downfall of politi- been centered around the stage coln knew. Uncover the details of cians the world over, including and screen. Meet at the Thomas his secretive arrival, learn about

National Mall Times 3 daily life in the White House, and follow the Saturday, August 7, 14, 21, 28 President through his time in Washington, D.C. Vive la Revolucion: up to his fateful visit to Ford’s Theater. Meet at South America’s War for Freedom the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Contact - Ja 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. son Martz at 202-438-4391. Have you ever wondered why some of Latin America’s greatest leaders have statues in the Walking Tours heart of the nation’s capital? Join us for a guided a n d R u n n i n g tour of the memorials to the heroes that helped liberate Latin America from Spain. Meet at the Sunday, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Foggy Bottom Metro Station. Contact Michael Holocaust: Remembrance and Repetition? Balis at 202-438-9710. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, August 21 The year 1945 marked the end World War II Chit-Chat Run - Quotable America and its death camps. Or was it only a pause in 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. time before that industry of death resurfaced? We will discuss these matters at this memorial Stretch your muscles and exercise your mind! and sites nearby. Content and photos may not Join us for a morning run around the National be appropriate for children. Meet at the World Mall. Meet the subjects of Washington, D.C.’s War II Memorial. Contact Lowell Fry at 202- memorials through their own words. Route 438-9603. will cover approximately 3.5 miles. Please pro- vide good running shoes and your own water. Tuesday, August 3, 10 Meet at the Washington Monument. Contact Friday, August 20, 27 Susan Martin at 202-437-1888. A Day with a Ranger 10 a.m. - mid afternoon Sunday, August 22 Chit-Chat Run: Spend the day with your very own park ranger The British are coming to Washington and learn about the history and architecture of 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. the National Mall from A to Z. The tour ends on the grounds of the Washington Monument The War of 1812 left a distinct impression on (entrance not included). Bring comfortable the Washington landscape. The run will cov- shoes and water. Meet at the Thomas Jefferson er about three miles with interpretive stops How to Visit Memorial. Contact Brad Berger at 202-438- pointing out some of the elements of the Brit- 4173. ish burning of Washington, D.C. on August 24, the Washington 1814. Please bring your own water. Meet at Wednesday, August 4 the Washington Monument. Contact Susan Monument Saturday, August 14 Martin at 202-437-1888. An Evening with a Park Ranger 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. ashington Monument admission Spend an evening with a ranger and tour the Wis free, but does require a ticket mall as you learn more about its history, monu- for everyone over the age of two. Open dai- ments, and memorials. Bring water and a flash- ly except July 4 and December 25. light. Meet at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Contact Kathy Kagle at 202-438-5377. Timed entry tickets are required and may be obtained in two ways:

1. The Washington Monument Lodge, lo- cated along 15th Street, opens at 8:30 a.m. for distribution of free, same day, timed tickets on a first come, first served basis. One person may pick up as many as six tickets as well as select their pre- ferred ticket time from what remains available for that operating day. 2. Reserved tickets may be obtained in ad- vance by visiting www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 (for individu- als) or 1-877-559-6777 (for large groups). Reserved tickets are often booked 30 days or more ahead of time. Please plan accordingly. All reserved tickets carry a $1.50 convenience charge.

Summer Hours: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday, May 31 - Monday, September 6

Rest of Year: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

National Mall and Memorial Parks Cell Phone Tours

Lincoln Memorial: 202-747-3420 First Amendment: 202-595-0085 Cherry Blossom Festival: 202-747-3465

4 National Mall Times Damn the Torpedoes, full speed ahead! Berger from page 1 race for the presidency in November. On April 25, 1881, a statue was unveiled to honor Admiral David Farragut, the victor of Mobile Bay. Taking his place among the pantheon of Civil War-era heroes who adorn the nation’s capital, located at the southern terminus of Connecticut Avenue, between I and K Streets, NW, the admiral stands silent watch over the square which bears his name. Emerging from a USS Hartford stiff competition, Vinnie past the guns of Fort Morgan, with constant pounding from the Ream Hoxie’s winning one more addition to the day’s guns of the monitors Chickasaw design captured the drama was just unfolding. In a and Manhattan on its stern, ended fancy of such judges as seemingly rash move, Admiral the day for the Tennessee. This General William Tecumseh , Flag Officer last ditch attempt by Admiral Sherman, and the widow of the Confederate ships in the Buchanan to inflict major damage of Admiral Farragut. Her bay, directed the captain of the on Farragut’s ships ultimately design captures the image of Admiral Farragut upon a Vinnie Ream Hoxie at work on Farragut statue Tennessee to steam forward failed. The white flag of surrender Photo courtesy and engage the Federals. The was offered to the Federal fleet, pedestal, spyglass in hand, slow, deliberate movement of and upon the surrender of Admiral as if observing a naval in the spring of 1862. Metal from the Tennessee toward Farragut’s Buchanan’s sword, Mobile Bay engagement from the deck of his the propeller of his flagship was flagship, as if a juggernaut was was no longer a haven for the flagship, the USS Hartford. The mixed with the bronze used in the stilled only after close-in action by blockade runners which served as statue stands as a testament not statue, as well as the four small the Federal warships. The climax the Confederacy’s lifeline during only to the victory to which he mortars that surround the statue. of the Tennessee’s attack witnessed the Civil War. Outside the realm of guided the Federal Navy on that This mixing of materials thereby point-blank engagement of the military significance, this victory hot August morning in 1864, but adds elements which were present Hartford’s guns on the ironclad also served President Abraham to Farragut’s other noted actions in the instrument of Farragut’s as they literally scraped sides with Lincoln the vital political capital in the Civil War, such as the great victories to the monument one another. This fire, coupled he needed in a potentially tight capture of the city of that honors them. Eastern National Bookstores Park Concessionaires Guest Services, Inc. manages all retail operations for National Mall and Memorial Parks. This includes refreshment kiosks and gift stores throughout the park. They also operate the following recreational opportunities...

Tidal Basin Paddle Boats 202-479-2426 www.tidalbasinpaddleboats.com National Mall and Memorial Parks is a very inspiring and powerful place, but your experience does not have to end in Washington, D.C. East Potomac Tennis Center Continue learning more about park sites and American history by 202-554-5962 visiting the many Eastern National bookstores throughout the park. www.eastpotomactennis.com Capture the moment, take home a book, and explore the ideas and values that make visiting National Mall and Memorial Parks such a stirring experience. Eastern National, a park partner, operates four Tourmobile bookstores located at: Sightseeing provides live, narrated shuttle Washington Monument Lodge tours with hop on/ 8:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. hop off service. You choose where to stop, Lincoln Memorial stay as long as you 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. want, then reboard and ride to another historic Thomas Jefferson Memorial location. Purchase 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. your tickets directly from the driver at any tour stop or any seasonal ticket booth. Franklin Delano Adults: $27.00 Roosevelt Memorial Children 3-11: $13.00 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Washington Monument Lodge 202-554-5100 www.tourmobile.com www.easternnational.org National Mall Times 5 urning of Washin he B August 24-25, 1814 gton T By Ranger Jason Martz For the first two years of the on Washington, D.C. instead of Bal- to be set afire. This began the Burn- Free trade and sailors rights conflict, engagements largely took timore, it came as a great surprise ing of Washington as British forces place throughout the Great Lakes to American leaders as none of the torched numerous buildings in the The War of 1812 was largely region and on the high seas of the possible river crossings had been Federal city including: the U.S. Capi- fought over this one phrase. Our Atlantic Ocean. Thankfully for our secured and only a few thousand lo- tol building, the President’s House burgeoning young country yearned young republic, the British military cal militia could be mustered to meet and the Treasury Department. The to trade freely with any country, pri- was still fighting France, and could this powerful threat. Ross chose a Navy Yard was also destroyed by marily either Great Britain or France, not afford to throw their entire mili- route that would allow his soldiers American forces in order to keep where American businesses could tary might upon the United States. easy passage across the Eastern ordinance and other supplies from earn a fare price for their goods and But with the defeat of France in ear- Branch of the Potomac River, now falling into the hands of the British services. However, a long-stand- ly 1814 British military leaders orga- called the Anacostia River, and the military. ing conflict between Great Britain nized and initiated the Chesapeake crossing at Bladensburg, Maryland With many of the important and France precluded our young Campaign. Their efforts focused on met his objective. Washington structures ablaze the country from freely pursuing this the region and ultimately the city that The early stage of the Battle British retired for the night. The end. Each country forbade Ameri- was the hive of British resistance, of Bladensburg, on Wednesday, Au- only thing that saved many of these can merchants to trade with its ad- Baltimore, Maryland. gust 24, 1814, resulted in a victory for structures was an unusually heavy versary and if American merchants Once organized, British the hurriedly assembled American rain storm that doused the flames. were caught in this act their sailors forces landed along the shore of the militia as they were able to beat back On August 25 the British began to were pressed into military service for Patuxent River at Benedict, Mary- the British at the bridge crossing the retrace their steps back to Benedict whichever country caught the perpe- land, (approximately forty miles Eastern Branch. This victory was where they reboarded their ships trators. This, for both Great Britain southeast of Washington, D.C.) on short-lived as the British reorganized and made sail for Baltimore. and France, solved two problems. July 19, 1814 and began to march and were able to push past the ill- It would be in Baltimore One, it kept supplies from reaching northward under the command of led and ill-trained American militia Harbor were the British were finally enemy shores, second, it boosted General Robert Ross. Until this units. Although able to momentarily turned back. After the British bom- manpower for whichever country point, John Armstrong, United resist the oncoming red wave of war barded Fort McHenry for twenty- apprehended American sailors. Fur- States Secretary of War, felt the Brit- hardened, veteran British soldiers, five straight hours, Francis Scott thermore, the British still held broad ish would continue marching north the American forces broke and ran Key saw the Star Spangled Banner tracts of land beyond America’s toward Baltimore and would bypass back into Washington and beyond in wave in the dawn’s early light. This frontier that some felt should be- the Federal city and declared, “What what became known as the Bladens- inspired a poem, which inspired a come new United States territory. the devil will they do here? No! No! burg Races. song, which became our national an- As a result of the combined Baltimore is the place... that is of so Around 8 p.m. on August 24, them in 1931. factors of a Great Britain weakened much more consequence.” 1814, British forces arrived at the Although the war came to a from years of war with France, the When Ross decided to move northeast outskirts of the Federal city close when the was continued impressment of American and were met with musket fire from a sailors, and an increased desire to The following excerpts help tell the neighboring house. A ball from this tale of August 24, 1814 from two very Martz Continued on page 8 move ever westward, a second war musket fire killed the horse of Gen- different perspectives. First Lady with Great Britain seemed inevitable. eral Ross and he ordered the home Ultimately President Dolly Madison writes a hasty letter declared war on Great Britain on to her sister Anna and George Gleig, a British soldier who participated in June 1, 1812. the attack and burning of Washing- When the detachment sent out to destroy Mr. Madison’s house ton, D.C. and the President’s House. entered his dining parlor, they found a dinner table spread and covers laid for forty guests. Several kinds of wine, in handsome cut glass t Three o’clock. -- Will you believe it, my sister? We have ir h i c e decanters, were cooling on the sideboard; plate holders stood by the B d Park S e r v had a battle, or skirmish, near Bladensburg, and here I am y ay l still, within sound of the cannon! Mr. Madison comes not. fireplace, filled with dishes and plates; knives, forks, and spoons were H p p N n a May God protect us! Two messengers, covered with dust, arranged for immediate use; in short, everything was ready for the a a t i o come to bid me fly; but here I mean to wait for him... At this entertainment of a ceremonious party. Such were the arrangements late hour a wagon has been procured, and I have had it filled in the dining room, whilst in the kitchen were others answerable to with plate and the most valuable portable articles, belonging to them in every respect. Spits, loaded with joints of various sorts, the house. Whether it will reach its destination, the “Bank of turned before the fire; pots, saucepans, and other culinary utensils Maryland,” or fall into the hands of British soldiery, events stood upon the grate; and all the other requisites for an elegant and must determine. Our kind friend, Mr. Carroll, has come to substantial repast were exactly in a state which indicated that they hasten my departure, and in a very bad humor with me, because I had been lately and precipitately abandoned. insist on waiting until the large picture of General Washington is secured, and it requires to be unscrewed from the wall. This You will readily imagine that these preparations were beheld by a process was found too tedious for these perilous moments; I party of hungry soldiers with no indifferent eye. An elegant dinner, have ordered the frame to be broken, and the canvas taken out. even though considerably overdressed, was a luxury to which few of It is done! And the precious portrait placed in the hands of them, at least for some time back, had been accustomed, and which, two gentlemen of New York, for safe keeping. And now, dear after the dangers and fatigues of the day, appeared peculiarly sister, I must leave this house, or the retreating army will make inviting. They sat down to it, therefore, not indeed in the most orderly me a prisoner in it by filling up the road I am directed to take. manner, but with countenances which would not have disgraced a When I shall again write to you, or where I shall be to-morrow, party of aldermen at a civic feast, and, having satisfied their appetites I cannot tell! with fewer complaints than would have probably escaped their rival gourmands, and partaken pretty freely of the wines, they finished by setting fire to the house which had so liberally entertained them. Dolly Madison - First Lady and George Gleig - British Soldier Wife of President James Madison

6 National Mall Times urning of Washin he B August 24-25, 1814 gton i s’ T K d Col um n Let’s Celebrate the 94 th Birthday of the National Park Service!

Fun NPS Facts

• President Woodrow Wilson signed the legislation to create the National Park Service on August 25, 1916. • The first national park created was Yellowstone National Park. • There are about 20,000 employees in the National Park Service. • The largest national park is Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska. • The smallest national park is Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial in , Pennsylvania. National Mall & Memorial Parks Junior Ranger Day 2008 irth c e B d Park S e r v i y ay l H p p N n a National Parks a a t i o Word Search

Parks in the Word Search C H A C O C U L T U R E Acadia Devils Tower Mammoth Cave D E V I L S T O W E R X T K X C V S E E L M O R R O L A K E M E A D B S Y Badlands El Morro Mount Rainier O S A N V C A B R I L L O C A P E C O D H T Bandelier Ellis Island Petroglyph W A R A E Z I O N H A L E A K A L A V A I O Blue Ridge Parkway Everglades San Juan P N A L R M N S H E N A N D O A H D S N L N Boston Federal Hall Saratoga E J T I G O L D E N G A T E T U Z I G O O T Bryce (Canyon) Fort Laramie Shenandoah N U O B L U E R I D G E P A R K W A Y G H O S A G R A N D C A N Y O N T G L A C I E R Cabrillo Glacier Shiloh N A J D T Q M A M M O T H C A V E H B Y Cape Cod Golden Gate Sitka F E D E R A L H A L L M V T U P E L O Chaco Culture Grand Canyon Tonto S R S A F O R T L A R A M I E Q K Colonial Haleakala Tupelo Z I I C O L O N I A L B R Y C E Cowpens Hot Springs Tuzigoot L T N E L L I S I S L A N D O K I Y O S E M I T E X A Q Death Valley Lake Mead Yosemite A E P E T R O G L Y P H Denali Lava (Beds) Zion R H O T S P R I N G S B A N D E L I E R Can you solve this month’s B A D L A N D S B O S T O N ? ?Mall Mystery? ? How many national park units ? are there in the system? today?

National Mall Times 7 Message from the “Monuments, and reservations, which Old Post OfficeT ower Superintendent purpose is to conserve the scenery and the he Old Post Office, natural and historic objects and the wildlife Tbuilt between 1892 and therein and to provide for the enjoyment 1899, is home to the Bells ugust is a of the same in such manner and by such of Congress, which were a great time to A means as will leave them unimpaired for the gift from England on our experience your enjoyment of future generations.” Nation’s Bicentennial. national park. From the observation deck, Our ranger staff National Park Service Organic Act located 270 feet above the presents interpretive street level, the visitor can p r o g r a m s August 25, 1916 get a spectacular view of throughout the park our Nation’s Capital. including park-wide walking tours and Operating Hours shorter detailed Potomac Nature Packs

programs of each Birds, Bugs and Trees, OH MY! Summer: Memorial Day memorial. through Labor Day To learn more iscover the wild side of the National Mall about the future of with nature packs designed to engage the D Monday through Saturday the National Mall, entire family. Each pack is filled with a sketch 9 a.m. - 7:45 p.m. visit the National pad, binoculars, books, park brochures, maps, Sunday and Holidays Mall Plan website, and activities for the whole family. These self- 10 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. www.nps.gov/ guided nature packs allow the whole family to request. Call 202-606-8691 for nationalmallplan put on their Eagle eyes, and explore the unbe- more information. Winter: Labor Day through to read current leaf-able sights and sounds of the National Memorial Day a l t e r n a t i v e s , Mall! For Whom the Bell Tolls: The express ideas, and Packs are available at the Survey Lodge Washington Ringing Society Monday through Saturday follow our progress. Ranger Station near the southwest corner of and the Bells of Congress 9 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Page through the Washington Monument grounds. Packs Sunday and Holidays this newspaper are available on a first come, first served basis, First Thursday of every month 10 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. to find out more and require an adult’s drivers license. One 6:45 p.m. about the many pack per family. Call 202-426-6841 for more 202-606-8691 fascinating ranger information. The art of change ringing programs offered www.nps.gov/opot goes back to the Middle Ages, throughout the and you can experience it first- park. Our park Ranger led walking tours of hand at the Old Post Office staff and volunteers Pennsylvania Avenue Tower! To learn more about the will be glad to systematic ringing of the Bells of answer any of your Upon Request: Congress, join members of the questions. Thanks Saturdays and Sundays Washington Ringing Society the for visiting, and 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. first Thursday of each month for have a wonderful a full explanation of the Bells of experience at Join a park ranger for an Congress, why they are here, and National Mall and interpretive program to learn how they work. The program Memorial Parks. more about one of Washington, will be followed by their weekly D.C.’s more impressive and practice session. Call 202-606- Superintendent fascinating landmarks, the Old 8691 for more information. John Piltzecker Post Office Tower. Tours are by

Martz Continued from page 6 leans in January, 1815. This victory Latin meaning the state in which things • Octagon House. The temporary helped to launch the political career were before the war. Trade resumed, White House where Madison signed on December 24, 1814 in Gh- of Andrew Jackson. Once the Treaty impressment ended and no meaning- signed the Treaty of Ghent. ent, Belgium, the war would continue of Ghent arrived in the United States ful territory had been won or lost by • Andrew Jackson statue in Lafay- in the United States due to the slow it was ratified by the U.S. Congress and either side. ette Park. pace at which news spread from one signed by President Madison on Feb- There are numerous sites in • Albert Gallatin statue on the north continent to another. During this time ruary 16. Washington, D.C. that relate to the side of the Treasury Building. the United States won an overwhelm- The War of 1812 ended with War of 1812 and the Burning of Wash- • and many others. ing victory at the Battle of New Or- an agreement of status quo ante bellum, ington to include:

Be sure to visit the updated Lincoln Memorial website! http://www.nps.gov/linc

ighlights include a new Lincoln HMemorial Construction Flipbook and an Interactive Site. The flipbook utilizes historic photographs to tell the story of the memorial construction from inception to completion. You can experience a virtual walk-through of the memorial, and listen to ranger reflections of the memorial and its history on the Interactive Site.

8 National Mall Times