On January 6, 2021 the United States Capitol was assaulted by a group of protesters, many of whom intended to disrupt the certification of the 2020 Presidential Election results. Vivid images from that day showed outnumbered United States Capitol Police Officers attempting to protect Congress members from harm. The events of January 6 illustrates the all important and central role of the Capitol Police to both the security of Congress members and American democracy. Yet, the origins and early days of the Capitol Police are often not focused on. Indeed, the story of the guardians of the U.S. Capitol begins in the early days of Washington DC and the American Republic. From Revolutionary War heroes, to the Commissioner of Public Buildings, to Presidents, all the way to foiling would be assassins, the stories and individuals associated with the founding and early days of the USCP are more than worthy of note.
May is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and we hope that you will join us on Saturday, May 13, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM to commemorate the origins of the Capitol Police at our 2nd Cemetery Speaker Series of 2023. One part speaking engagement and one part docent led tour, the event features keynote remarks on the founding of the U.S. Capitol Police from local historian and U.S. Capitol Fellow Blake Lindsey followed by a complimentary docent led tour of the gravesites, monuments, and memorials of USCP associated individuals such as Montjoy Baly, John Quincy Adams, and more!
Tickets are only $5 and all proceeds go to benefitting our non-profit mission of historical preservation and education. Space is limited so be sure to reserve your spot today! Keynote remarks will take place either outside or inside the Chapel, weather depending and the walking tour will take place on the grounds. The tour is approximately 45 minutes in length. Please come prepared with comfortable clothing and shoes, as the tours often stray from the main paths.
Refreshments and alcoholic beverages will be for sale near the speaking area.
The event is rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited and dogs are not allowed to attend the event unless they are a service animal.
Our Speaker:
Blake Lindsey
Blake Lindsey is a Ward 6 based researcher, writer, and speaker. His published works have included analysis of civil-military relations in the Civil War Defenses of Washington and historic visitation at the U.S. Capitol Building. He has been a speaker at events such as DC Nerd Nite, Civil War Round Tables, and the DC History Conference. His recent accolades include being honored by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society as a U.S. Capitol Fellow for his research on the historical relationship between American civic life and public access at the Capitol Building
To learn more about the Cemetery Speaker Series, check out our main page HERE.