It’s a little-known D.C. monument that commemorates one of the most important treaties in U.S. diplomatic history, and you might never notice it when you walk by.
In today’s latest obscure monument installment of “Matt About Town,” WTOP’s Matt Kaufax heads to the intersection of 25th and L streets, off Pennsylvania Avenue, to explore the back story behind the Rush-Bagot Treaty and the marker that commemorates it.
Negotiated in 1817 between the U.S. and Britain, the Rush-Bagot Treaty demilitarized America’s Great Lakes. That’s right — there used to be warships patrolling the waters of the Midwest!
Come along with Matt to find out how, coming out of the War of 1812, this treaty turned the tide and helped establish long-standing peace between the U.S. and one of its closest allies to this day, the United Kingdom.
During his journey, Matt also found out why this important monument stands in the front lawn of what is now an ordinary apartment building.
“Matt About Town” airs every Tuesday and Thursday on WTOP at 7:45 a.m., and runs throughout the rest of the day on 103.5 FM. His video pieces are always posted on wtop.com.
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