History Unlocked: Captain George Pointer and Canal Fever

History Unlocked

A monthly series from Georgetown Heritage

While the C&O Canal remains drained for important repair and rehabilitation work, Georgetown Heritage is finding new ways to continue to engage the community and tell the stories of the people who shaped this iconic Georgetown landmark. Join us aboard the docked canal boat for an evening of learning and socializing, with a special guest speaker, wine and beer, and light refreshments. All proceeds from this series will support Georgetown Heritage’s canal boat and education programs.

Captain George Pointer and Canal-Fever

The story of a free Black canal worker's contribution to George Washington's Potomac Canal, and the C&O Canal, presented by Tim Hannapel, Historic Chevy Chase.

In this talk, we will explore the early history of how "canal-fever" infected early post-colonial U.S. history, including the contributions of an intrepid free Black man, Captain George Pointer, and his family. Pointer was one of the first employees of George Washington's Potomack Canal, hired in 1785, who spent his entire adult life working on that canal, rising to Supervising Engineer in 1816. He piloted President John Quincy Adams to the groundbreaking of the C&O Canal on July 4, 1828. The talk will also explore the early history of the C&O Canal and Georgetown in the 1830s and 1840s.

About Georgetown Heritage

Georgetown Heritage’s mission is to celebrate and elevate the history, heritage, arts and culture of Georgetown. We are dedicated to creating memorable experiences and opportunities for residents and visitors through educational programs, events, partnerships, and a commitment to the unique character of DC’s oldest neighborhood.

Georgetown has played a unique and important role in the political, social, and cultural development of our nation’s capital. We seek to tell that story, and the stories of the diverse community of individuals who have lived and worked here through tours, educational programming, and community events, and to enliven the neighborhood through public arts and cultural programming.

Georgetown Heritage is a 501c3 organization. Learn more about us at georgetownheritage.org

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