The Clara Barton National Historic Site was established in 1974 to interpret the life of Clara Barton (1821–1912), founder of the American Red Cross. The site is located 2 miles northwest of Washington D.C. in Glen Echo, Maryland.

The first national historic site dedicated to the accomplishments of a woman, it preserves the early history of the American Red Cross and illustrates Clara Barton's dedication and concern for those less fortunate than herself. She dedicated her life and energies to help others in times of need - both home and abroad, in peacetime as well as during military emergencies. Clara Barton spent the last 15 years of her life in her Glen Echo home until her death in April 1912.