Washington Canal Groundbreaking Ceremony

Item

Item sets
Mall Histories
Washington
Title
Washington Canal Groundbreaking Ceremony
Date
5/2/1810
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.
Coverage
1800-1829
Event Type
Openings and Dedications
Source
National Intelligencer (Washington, DC)