Clara Barton National Historic Site | Montgomery County

The Clara Barton National Historic Site, located in Glen Echo, Maryland, preserves the former home of Clara Barton, the pioneering nurse and humanitarian best known for founding the American Red Cross. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into her life and legacy, as well as the early history of the American Red Cross during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Location and Setting

The site is situated at 5801 Oxford Road within Glen Echo Park, a cultural and recreational area near the Potomac River and just outside Washington, D.C. The property includes Clara Barton’s residence-a large yellow Victorian house set on a hillside overlooking the park’s main parking area. The surrounding neighborhood is tranquil, with easy access from nearby highways and local roads.

Historical Significance

Clara Barton purchased this home in 1897, making it both her personal residence and the headquarters of the American Red Cross until her death in 1912. During this period, the house functioned not only as a family home but also as a critical operational center where Barton organized disaster relief, humanitarian missions, and the growth of the Red Cross in the United States.

The site is notable for embodying Barton’s dedication to public service and humanitarian aid during a formative time in American history. It reflects the evolution of the American Red Cross from a small organization focused on war relief to a broader disaster response and public health entity.

The House and Grounds

The house itself is a three-story Victorian structure characterized by its distinctive yellow exterior and porch with sweeping views. Due to structural concerns, the second and third floors are currently closed to the public, and the interior remains unfurnished, preserving the historical integrity without modern additions.

Visitors can access the front porch and the first floor, which serve as the main areas for guided tours. The rooms available provide interpretive exhibits and narratives about Barton’s life, her work with the Red Cross, and the broader social and historical context of her era.

Visitor Experience

Guided Tours: Tours are offered on Fridays and Saturdays at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM, lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes. These tours provide detailed insights into Clara Barton’s personal story, her humanitarian work, and the significance of the site as an operational hub for the American Red Cross.

Interpretive Focus: Tour guides emphasize Barton’s pioneering role as a nurse during the Civil War, her efforts in establishing the American Red Cross, and her lifelong commitment to aiding those in crisis. The narratives also highlight her leadership style and the challenges she faced as a woman leading a national organization in that era.

Surrounding Glen Echo Park: Visitors often combine a visit to the historic site with exploring Glen Echo Park, which offers additional recreational and cultural opportunities such as art studios, theater performances, and walking trails.

Accessibility and Amenities

The front porch and first floor of the house are wheelchair accessible, though visitors should be aware that the upper floors are closed due to safety concerns.

There are no public restrooms on-site; nearby facilities are available at Glen Echo Park, about a seven-minute walk away.

Only service animals are permitted inside the site, ensuring accessibility while maintaining preservation standards.

Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the house and a larger lot down the hill, making arrival by car convenient.

Admission and Hours

Admission to the Clara Barton National Historic Site is free, supporting broad public access to this important historic and cultural resource. Visitors should plan to arrive during tour times, as entry is by guided tour only, and the house is not open for self-guided visits.

Summary

The Clara Barton National Historic Site serves as a vital preservation of the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential humanitarians. The site’s house stands as a symbol of her commitment to public service, her groundbreaking role in nursing and disaster relief, and the origins of the American Red Cross. Its location in Glen Echo Park enriches the visitor experience by combining history with natural beauty and cultural activities, making it a meaningful destination for those interested in American history, humanitarianism, and women’s leadership.