The Town of Cottage City, incorporated in 1924, is a small but historically rich community located just minutes from Washington, D.C. Long before becoming a residential town, the area played a role in one of the most significant events of the War of 1812—the Battle of Bladensburg. In August 1814, British troops marched through what is now Cottage City on their way to Washington, ultimately burning the U.S. Capitol and White House.
Cottage City is also home to one of the region’s most famous landmarks, the Exorcist House, which served as the inspiration and filming location for scenes in the classic 1973 film The Exorcist. The home has since become an internationally recognized point of interest for visitors and film enthusiasts.
The town holds a unique place in American cultural history as well. Elizabeth Magie, inventor of The Landlord’s Game, lived in Cottage City. Her game was designed to illustrate the dangers of monopolistic land ownership and later evolved—without her original intent—into the board game we know today as Monopoly.
From its roots in early American history to its role in pop culture and game design, Cottage City offers a remarkable blend of past and present. Today, the town remains a close-knit community proud of its heritage and committed to preserving its unique character.