Located about 20 miles north of the District of Columbia, the Quaker Town of Brookeville played a significant role in local and national history during the British occupation of Washington as “United States Capital for a Day” on August 26, 1814.
In the days before the invasion, Washingtonians – including President James Madison and his staff – sought refuge in the town. Washington’s banks brought their money and a Senate clerk brought the government’s documents to Brookeville for safekeeping.
To commemorate the War of 1812 Bicentennial, visitors and local residents can relive that historic period during a weekend-long, free event, in and around town, on Saturday, August 30 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday, August 31 from noon to 6 p.m. Both County Executive Ike Leggett and Governor Martin O’Malley will participate in the re-enactment of President Madison’s stay in Brookeville – Leggett portraying Attorney General Richard Rush and O’Malley, General John Mason.
Attendees can experience life in 1814, witness the arrival of President Madison, accompanied by a mounted Presidential Guard, and watch costumed living history demonstrations. On Saturday evening, a traditional Quaker supper will be served. Special tours, technology exhibits, children’s activities, a military encampment, craft demonstrations, period food and libations, shopping, etc. will also mark the celebration.
Road closures, Parking Information
Georgia Ave .will be closed to all but pedestrians and horses during the event on Saturday and Sunday. Transportation in and out of town will be by free, handicapped accessible-shuttle buses from satellite parking areas at Camp Bennett (20501 Georgia Ave., Brookeville) and MedStar Montgomery Medical Center’s construction lot (across from 18101 Prince Phillip Dr., Olney). Parking is free at both sites. Shuttle service will also be provided from the Glenmont Metro station.No dogs except service dogs will be allowed on the shuttle buses. Golf carts will take attendees who are unable to walk comfortably from the shuttle stops to activities.
Get information about road closures and detours around Brookeville.
For more information, call 240-205-2387 or log onto www.uscapitalforaday.org
