Colmar Manor in Prince George's County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

Second Line Falls

Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

Photographed By Allen C. Browne, November 14, 2012

1. Second Line Falls Marker

Inscription. The Second of three defensive lines blocking the British advance on Washington stretched along here. It was located on the first set of hills overlooking the river. The American militia was unprepared to face seasoned war veterans. Holding firm against the initial assault at the bridge, the militia gave way as the British rushed again, pushing through the first two lines. Only the third remained.

"The American Troops were drawn up in three lines, like so many regiments upon a gala parade, while guns were used as connecting links to a chain..." -- British Lieutenant George Robert Gleig, eyewitness

Bladensburg Races

Many Americans blamed lack of leadership on the field for the perceived rout at Bladensburg. During a congressional inquiry, Brigadier General William Winder was said to be "unfit for any important command." In 1816 an anonymous poem, "Bladensburg Races" pointed to ineffective leadership as well from President Madison and Secretary James Monroe.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War of 1812. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #04 James Madison, the Former U.S. Presidents: #05 James Monroe, and the Star Spangled Banner National Historic Trail series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1816.

Location.

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Marker has been reported missing. It was located near 38° 56.044′ N, 76° 57.147′ W. Marker was in Colmar Manor, Maryland, in Prince George's County. Marker was at the intersection of Bladensburg Road (U.S. 1) and 38th Avenue, on the left when traveling south on Bladensburg Road. At the north of the small bridge over dueling creek at the Bladensburg dueling grounds. This was Tourncliff's bridge during the battle in 1814. Touch for map. Marker was in this post office area: Brentwood MD 20722, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. Bladensburg Dueling Grounds (here, next to this marker); The Road to the Capital (here, next to this marker); Dueling Grounds (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named Dueling Grounds (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Marines & Flotillamen (about 400 feet away); A Valiant Stand (about 400 feet away); The Road to the Capitol (about 400 feet away); a different marker also named Second Line Falls (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Colmar Manor.

More about this marker. This marker has been replaced at this location by the "Bladensburg Dueling Grounds" marker (HMDB #73130). A marker identical to this one has been erected at 40th Avenue (HMDdb #69353).

Photographed By Allen C. Browne, November 14, 2012

2. Second Line Falls Marker

Second Line Falls Marker and the nearby Dueling Grounds Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Allen C. Browne, November 14, 2012

3. Second Line Falls Marker and the nearby Dueling Grounds Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on November 16, 2012, by Allen C. Browne of Silver Spring, Maryland. This page has been viewed 718 times since then and 13 times this year. Last updated on April 22, 2014, by Allen C. Browne of Silver Spring, Maryland. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 16, 2012, by Allen C. Browne of Silver Spring, Maryland. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.