Washington is Burning! August 1814: The White House in Flames

On August 24, 1814, Washington, D.C. was invaded. British soldiers led by Rear Admiral George Cockburn marched methodically from site to site, setting fire to government buildings.  Follow the path of the British during a walking tour that brings to life the incredible story of the nation’s capital and its brave citizens.

The White House in Flames Tour Highlights 

This walk will commence in downtown D.C. with the account of how Dr. William Thornton, designer of the U.S. Capitol building, persuaded a British colonel to leave a building Thornton compared to the “Alexandrian Library” standing.

Barbara Suter was not as successful convincing the British that her boarding house had little in the way of hospitality to offer: it became their temporary headquarters, ideally situated to view the fires across the street.

In Lafayette Park, participants will learn the connection between naval hero Stephen Decatur, whose house still stands, and Francis Scott Key, author of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

At the White House, hear what befell the elegant rooms refurbished by First Lady Dolley Madison and the priceless national treasures housed inside? 

The walk concludes at the home that served as temporary residence for the Madisons in the aftermath of the invasion: the Octagon. 

Explore more Washington, D.C. walks: The White House and Lafayette Park and Washington is Burning! August 1814: Attack on the U.S. Capitol