Washington, D.C., District of Columbia story
A Gate That Survived the Flames
In 1814, during the British invasion of Washington, Captain Tingey was ordered to burn the Washington Navy Yard to prevent it from falling into enemy hands. Most of the yard went…
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In 1814, during the British invasion of Washington, Captain Tingey was ordered to burn the Washington Navy Yard to prevent it from falling into enemy hands. Most of the yard went up in flames, but one structure stood its ground: the Latrobe Gate. Completed in 1806 and designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, this Greek Revival gate survived the fire.
Over the centuries, it has seen history pass through its arches, including a visit from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939. Today, the Navy describes it as the oldest continuously manned Marine sentry post in the United States. Though it's now restricted to residents of flag officer quarters, the gate remains a silent witness to the city's early military struggles and its enduring naval heritage.
Updated June 2026