Crossing the Potomac

History: After assassinating President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, John Wilkes Booth and his accomplice, David A. Herold, fled Washington for Southern Maryland, where he would find like-minded confederates.

Concealed for several days in a pine thicket, the pair made their way over rough terrain to the Potomac River on the night of April 20, 1865. They were guided by Thomas A. Jones, who was a Confederate agent. Booth and Herold traveled about a mile to a stream where Jones had hidden a rowboat.

The pair did not reach Virginia that night; lost, they rowed into Nanjemoy Creek. They spent the next day resting and then continued to cross the Potomac and head south. Booth and Herold crossed the Rappahannock River and hid at the home of Richard Garrett, just past Port Royal.

More to Explore: Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Chapel Point State Park on Port Tobacco River, offering a paddle-in campsite, fishing & hunting.

Several historic sites are in the area. Adjacent to the state park is Historic St. Ignatius Church, founded in 1641. This is one of the oldest Catholic Parishes in the United States. Also nearby is the Friendship House, located on the LaPlata campus of the College of Southern Maryland. This reconstructed colonial home is reminiscent of the life and architecture of Maryland's early settlers.

Photo Credits:

   1. “Booth and Herold Crossing the Potomac” Courtesy of LC Baker.
   2. “Dent’s Meadow-Booth’s final Route” Courtesy of National Park Service.