Clara Barton National Historic Site: Visitor’s Guide
The Clara Barton National Historic Site in Glen Echo, Maryland, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, particularly anyone interested in the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest humanitarians.
This site preserves the former home of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. It offers visitors a unique glimpse into her remarkable life, transcending society’s limitations. Barton’s incredible work and dedication to humanitarian service were incredible despite living during a time when she was not granted full rights because of her gender.
Visiting the Clara Barton National Historic Site
Clara Barton is best known for her tireless efforts as a Civil War nurse, her pioneering work in disaster relief, and her role in establishing the American Red Cross in 1881. Her home in Glen Echo showcases her commitment to serving those in need.
“If I cannot be a soldier, I’ll help soldiers” – Clara Barton
The House and Its Architecture
The house itself is a fascinating piece of history. Constructed in 1891, part of the lumber used in building the house was salvaged from the emergency buildings of the Red Cross in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in the wake of the catastrophic Johnstown Flood of 1889.
Initially intended as a Red Cross warehouse, it became Barton’s residence and the organization’s first permanent headquarters. When Clara Barton moved into the home in 1897, she was 75 years old and had already gained international fame for her work in the Civil War. She would live in the Glenn Echo home for the last 15 years of her life.
The unique Swiss chalet-style architecture and its distinctive red shingled exterior set it apart from other historic homes in the area.
“You have never known me without work; while able, you never will!” – Clara Barton
Guided Tours and Exhibits
One of the highlights of visiting the Clara Barton National Historic Site is the guided tour by National Park Service Rangers. These tours provide in-depth information about Barton’s life, her humanitarian work, and the history of the Red Cross. Visitors can walk through the rooms where Barton lived and worked, including the office spaces, bedrooms, and storage areas that would have been filled with emergency relief supplies from the late 19th century.
The house is unfurnished, and due to structural concerns, the second and third floors of the building remain closed.
A visit to the Clara Barton National Historic Site is a journey into the life of one of America’s most influential women. The historic home offers an inspiring look at Barton’s enduring legacy. Its rich history and engaging tours make it a Maryland treasure worth exploring.
Things to Know Before Visiting Clara Barton National Historic Site
The Clara Barton National Historic Site is at 5801 Oxford Road, Glen Echo, Maryland. It’s about a half-hour drive from Washington, D.C., or about an hour and a half from Baltimore.
Check out the Clara Barton National Park Service website for the hours the site is open and when guided tours are available.
Admission: Free! There is no cost to visit the site.
