Tales & Trails: The Bonus Army and Birth of the GI Bill

Tales & Trails: The Bonus Army and Birth of the GI Bill

Did you know that in 1932 over 20,000 World War I veterans camped in Anacostia Park for two months to demand just compensation?

By The Washington Area Bicyclist Association

Date and time

Saturday, July 27 · 9am - 12pm EDT

Location

Marion Barry Avenue SouthEast & Anacostia Drive

Marion Barry Avenue SouthEast & Anacostia Drive Washington, DC 20020

About this event

  • 3 hours

Join the DC Trail Rangers and National Park Service for a local history tour of the surrounding areas of Anacostia Park.

Did you know that in 1932 over 20,000 Black and white World War I veterans camped in Anacostia Park for two months for just compensation for their combat pay. Coming from all parts of the US during the height of the Great Depression, the Bonus Army became a national sensation. This tour brings these events to life with then and now photographs, a Ranger-led talk at the site of the former encampment, and bike ride to Capitol Hill retracing the route of the Bonus marchers as they petitioned Congress! The route is 7 miles on paved trail and on city streets with a slight incline.

This event is bring your own bike. If you don't have a bike and need to borrow one for the event please email trailranger@waba.org for a free Capital Bikeshare rental. All participants must wear a helmet while riding a bike. If you don't have a helmet please email trailranger@waba.org so we can be sure to bring one for you.

We recommend wearing closed-toe shoes and comfortable, weather appropriate clothing, and bringing a reusable water bottle.

Organized by

Your friendly regional bike advocacy organization.