Washington Canal Groundbreaking Ceremony

Title

Washington Canal Groundbreaking Ceremony

Description

In May of 1810 President James Madison broke ground for the Washington Canal amidst city officials and citizens crowded at New Jersey Avenue SE. The Canal was part of the original city plan from 1791, but work stalled until 1809 when Congress chartered a new company to complete the canal. President Madison, the president of the company, and the city mayor each dug a small hole with a shovel at the groundbreaking. As a horse and plow began digging the canal in earnest, onlookers celebrated with enthusiasm and enjoyed free refreshments under a large tent.

Source

National Intelligencer (Washington, DC)

Date

5/2/1810

Coverage

1800-1829

Event Sort Date

18100502

Description

In May of 1810 President James Madison broke ground for the Washington Canal amidst city officials and citizens crowded at New Jersey Avenue SE. The Canal was part of the original city plan from 1791, but work stalled until 1809 when Congress chartered a new company to complete the canal. President Madison, the president of the company, and the city mayor each dug a small hole with a shovel at the groundbreaking. As a horse and plow began digging the canal in earnest, onlookers celebrated with enthusiasm and enjoyed free refreshments under a large tent.

Date

5/2/1810

Coverage

1800-1829

Source

National Intelligencer (Washington, DC)

Geolocation