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Title
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Washington Canal Groundbreaking Ceremony
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Description
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In May of 1810 President James Madison broke ground for the Washington Canal amidst city officials and citizens crowded at New Jersey Avenue SE. The Canal was part of the original city plan from 1791, but work stalled until 1809 when Congress chartered a new company to complete the canal. President Madison, the president of the company, and the city mayor each dug a small hole with a shovel at the groundbreaking. As a horse and plow began digging the canal in earnest, onlookers celebrated with enthusiasm and enjoyed free refreshments under a large tent.
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Date
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May 2, 1810
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Source
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National Intelligencer (Washington, DC)
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Coverage
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en
1800-1829
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Theme
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commerce & trade
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ghost mall
canalopens.png