Grave of John Philip Sousa.

John Philip Sousa: The March King

Washington, DC

John Philip Sousa directed the U.S. Marine Band from 1880 to 1892. Known as "The March King," he wrote over 130 of them, and it was at his suggestion that the sousaphone -- the marching band tuba -- was invented.

When Sousa died in 1932 he was interred in Congressional Cemetery, which is owned by Christ Church Washington Parish, of which Sousa was a member. His burial plot includes a bench with a harp carved into it and a slab with a series of musical notes.

Tourists who visit Sousa's grave on his birthday, November 6, are treated to cake and a concert from the President's Own Marine Band, which performs The March King's most famous compositions, including "The Stars and Stripes Forever," which is now officially the national march of the United States.

[Grave report by Kurt Deion]

Congressional Cemetery Map

Congressional Cemetery: A Not-Grave Graveyard: Find more like this in our roadside roundup map of Congressional Cemetery

Also see: Congressional Cemetery

John Philip Sousa: The March King

Congressional Cemetery

Address:: 1801 E St. SE, Washington, DC
Directions:: Walk into the cemetery at the intersection of Potomac Ave. SE and E St. SE. Walk straight in until you reach the chapel, then turn right. Sousa's grave will be about 100 feet down this path, on the left.
Hours:: Daylight daily; gated after hours. Office M-F 9-5. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 202-543-0539

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