Rumsey Monument

History: This monument is dedicated to James Rumsey, who launched the first successful steam-propelled boat. Look across the Potomac to Ferry Hill, home of Henry Kyd Douglas, who served as General Stonewall Jackson's youngest officer. Nearby is Boteler's Ford, where the last fighting in Maryland took place and General Lee's army crossed in retreat.

More to Explore: Plan a trip to Antietam National Battlefield, and allow time, too, for hiking and biking along the C&O Canal towpath.

Photo Credits: “Baltimore, Maryland, skyline and waterfront” & “The floating hospital on the Mississippi” These are examples of steam-propelled boats, like those that would have been seen here. Courtesy of: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division