NPS - National Park Service

09/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/16/2024 11:22

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lincoln-Thomas Day

Date:
September 16, 2024
Contact:Autumn Cook, 771-215-6954

WASHINGTON - Join the National Park Service (NPS) on the historic grounds of Fort Stevens on Sept. 21, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Lincoln-Thomas Day. The NPS, in partnership with the Military Road School Preservation Trust (MRSPT), will mark this milestone with a day of history, music, and community.


Event Highlights:

The commemoration kicks off at 10 a.m. with a formal program featuring leaders from the NPS, MRSPT, and the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs. Keynote speaker historian Bernard Siler will share insights into the significance of the day. Musical performances by Annette Singletary and the Montgomery Blair Choir will enhance the experience.

After the formal program, which concludes at noon, stay for hands-on activities, author tables, and an informative film about Elizabeth Proctor Thomas, the landowner of what became Fort Stevens. Activities run until 2 p.m.

Getting There:

There is limited parking available around Fort Stevens on Quackenbos Street, NW.

Media Attendance:

Media representatives are invited to attend and cover this milestone anniversary. Please RSVP by Sept. 20. For additional information or to schedule interviews, please contact e-mail us.

About Lincoln-Thomas Day:

The initial Lincoln-Thomas Day, established by the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, was observed nationally on Sept. 22, 1924. The event honored two individuals of the Civil War-era, President Abraham Lincoln and Mrs. Elizabeth Thomas, who came from very different backgrounds but shared a profound connection to Fort Stevens.

On Sept. 22, 2012, Mrs. Thomas' contribution to Fort Stevens was further recognized with the ceremonial unveiling of "Elizabeth Thomas Way." Passed by the D.C. Council, the block of Quackenbos Street next to the Fort Stevens was renamed in honor of Mrs. Thomas.

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