Monocacy National Battlefield is located just outside of Frederick, Maryland. Unless you live in the area or are a civil war buff you might not have heard of this Battlefield before.

History of the Monocacy Battle
The Battle that Saved Washington
The Battle of Monocacy has forever been known as “The Battle That Saved Washington” and the union didn’t even win the battle.
In the Summer of 1864 Confederate General, Robert E. Lee devised a plan. He ordered General Jubal Early to take the Second Corps of the Army of Northern Virginia and to invade Maryland from the Shenandoah Valley. They wanted to do this to be able to put pressure on the federal capital at Washington DC.

Major General Lew Wallace brought 3,200 troops west from Baltimore, MD to take the position just south of Frederick, MD at Monocacy Junction.
July 9th with almost 6,600 Union troops gathered near Monocacy Junction while Early had 15,000 Confederates to the north in Frederick. This was to be the Battle of Monocacy.
By 5 pm July 9th, the Federals were in full retreat and the confederates won the battle. During the single day of fighting about 2,200 men were killed, wounded or captured.

Though the Confederates won the Battle of Monocacy the battle slowed down the confederates advances on Washington enough for Union reinforcements to reach the capital. The Confederacy was unable to capture Washington DC and ended up retreating back into Virginia.
Tips for visiting Monocacy National Battlefield with Kids
Monocacy National Battlefield is a fun and easy day trip for families. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip to the battlefield.
1. Go to the Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your visit to the battlefield. At the visitor center, you will find a variety of interactive activities for the kids.

2. Take a quick look around the museum
Upstairs at the visitor center is a museum with information about the battlefield and the area. Take a quick look around and help your kids learn a little bit of history.
3. Check for re-enactments
We missed the re-enactment weekend but if you can plan your visit around being able to see a re-enactment. It’s such a great way to make history come alive. We were able to see a re-enactment at the Castillo de San Marcos and we all loved it!!
4. Do the auto tour
The auto tour is a great way to learn more about the battle at Monocacy. And it’s free! Get the info at the visitor center.

5. Attend a ranger program
Check the website for Monocacy National Battlefield and find out when ranger programs are held. This is a great way to learn and be able to ask questions.
6. Get out of the car
Take a hike or just walk around some of the areas on the auto tour. Not only is the National Battlefield a great place to learn about history they are a great place to enjoy getting outside as a family.
Monocacy National Battlefield has 6 different walking trails. Some of the paths cover phases of the battle while others provide scenic views.

7. Bring water and snacks
When doing anything with kids it’s a good idea to bring a drink and snacks. Water is especially important during the summer when it can get really hot in Maryland.
8. Don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen
If you plan on spending time hiking some of the trails or watching the re-enactments you will want to make sure you remember bug spray and sunscreen.

9. Take pictures
The Monocacy National Battlefield is beautiful so don’t forget to stop and enjoy the beauty of the area and take a few pictures.
10. Have fun
Make your trips fun for the kids and they will love visiting historical places with you. Let them have fun, explore and enjoy being in nature together.
Looking for more fun places to visit in Maryland? Check out our Ultimate Maryland Bucket List!
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