Monocacy National Battlefield

The monument recognizes the sacrifices of the "Monocacy Regiment."
During the summer of 1864, the Confederacy carried out a bold plan to turn the tide of the Civil War in their favor. They planned to capture Washington, DC and influence the election of 1864. On July 9, however, Federal soldiers outnumbered three to one, fought gallantly along the banks of the Monocacy River in an effort to buy time for Union reinforcement to arrive in Washington, DC.
Map showing location of park.
Several colorful displays about a Civil War battle are arrayed under a barn roof.
Monocacy National Battlefield Opens Redesigned Museum
Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, stories, and artifacts at Monocacy National Battlefield’s redesigned museum. The park will dedicate the new museum at a grand opening ceremony where everyone can learn how the battle there, shaped American history. The event takes place at the park’s visitor center on Friday, April 3, 2026.
Federal style house with trees behind it during the fall season.
Photo by NPS Photo
The sun setting behind a monument.
Photo by NPS Photo
Sun rise and fog behind the historic Secondary House on the Best Farm.
Photo by NPS Photo
Smoke and fire erupt from an artillery piece as it is fired by Union soldiers.
Photo by NPS Photo
Small flags fly in the breeze in front of the visitor center.
Photo by NSP Photo
A cannon sits in a green field in front of a small white building, the sun is setting.
Photo by NPS Photo
Living history demonstrators dressed as Union soldiers fire small arms.
Photo by NPS Photo