Guided history bike rides along Anacostia River, around Anacostia Park

Washington Area Bicycle Association (WABA) recently announced they are partnering with National Park Service again this summer to offer guided history rides along Anacostia River and around Anacostia Park. This is terrific news for bike enthusiasts, history buffs, nature lovers, and those just interested in learning more about the city where they live.

Join Tales and Trails for free and learn the varied and rich history of this part of Wards 7 and 8.

Photo: Washington Area Bicycle Association (WABA)

(postponed to June 23) Saturday June 2: A Monument to Civil Rights
This tour traces the Civil Rights story of Anacostia Park.  Narratives include the stories of Native Americans, integration of public parks, African American workers in the U.S. Navy Yard, and the story of the ship Pearl – the largest escape attempt of slaves in the United States! Registration is required.
 
Sunday, July 29: “The Bonus Army at Anacostia”
In 1932 over 30,000 World War I veterans camped at Anacostia Park in peaceful protest for a wartime bonus that ultimately resulted in the G.I. Bill.  This bike tour leads visitors through the former encampment and details their struggle as they lobbied Congress during the Great Depression. ASL interpretation for the tour funded by National Park Service Anacostia Park. Registration is required.
 
Sunday, August 12: “Where Botany meets History”
Join the Rangers and WABA on a ride to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.  From the native to invasive, this tour focuses on the flora and fauna you will meet along the way.  Upon arriving at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, riders will dismount and have a Ranger-led tour among the flowering lotus and lilies. Find out how this part of the Anacostia became the premier site of flowering lotus in the District of Columbia! Registration is required.
 
Saturday, September 1: “Happy Birthday Anacostia Park!”
On August 31 Anacostia Park becomes 100 years old.  On September 1, explore the entire history of the park from the prehistoric era to the present day. Stories of ornithologists, Civil Rights leaders, environmental activists as well as the famous and infamous make this tour one to remember! ASL interpretation for the tour funded by Washington Area Bicyclist Association. Registration is required.

Take a look at the recap—in pictures and words—of the 2017 season in Tales and Trails: A Season of Rides.

photo: washington area bicycle association