Sorry! This site requires JavaScript. Virtually nothing will work without it. Please enable it in your browser.


Fort McHenry -Maryland

FORT McHENRY occupies a preeminent position among the historic shrines and monuments of our country by reason of its special meaning in American history.

It was a glimpse of the American flag waving defiantly over the ramparts of Fort McHenry that inspired Francis Scott Key to compose our national anthem.

Here, where the flag flies day and night, the Stars and Stripes attains a special significance for Americans.

Here on these historic ramparts the visitor can sense and appreciate that surge of inspiration, born amid the welter of bursting bombs and blazing rockets, which compelled Francis Scott Key to create a classic expression of American ideals and patriotism.

Here is symbolized the triumph of American arms and valor over a foreign invader.

This classic book by Harold I. Lessem and George C. Mackenzie recounts the amazing story of Fort McHenry, the War of 1812, and the birth of the Star Spangled Banner, America's national anthem.

Discover...

*** The War of 1812 - A group of "War Hawk" congressmen pushes a small, badly trained and disorganized U.S. military to war against the powerful British army and navy... and sends America to the brink of disaster

*** The Chesapeake Campaign - Battle-hardened British regiments destroy Washington D.C. and begin marching to Baltimore... virtually unopposed by the demoralized and inexperienced American army and militias

*** Baltimore, the British Objective - The British are set on punishing a city which is a hotbed of anti-British sentiment and on capturing one of America's main war shipyards

*** The Battle of North Point - British artillery and rockets fly as outnumbered American forces stand their ground... but for how long?

*** The Bombardment of Fort McHenry - 200 pound British bombs batter the fort and the Americans' hopes seem to be running out... will this be the end of America's dream of independence after less than 40 years as a nation

*** "The Star-Spangled Banner" - When there seems to be nothing separating Britain's vaunted military power from complete victory... a bold man prophesizes the spiritual rebirth of the American Nation

and much more!

Experience "Fort McHenry" today and discover how - during one of the United States' most critical and desperate moments - American history was forever changed by the bravery of ordinary citizens... the unconventional tactics of a few exceptional generals... and the farsighted visions of Francis Scott Key, author of the Star Spangled Banner.

Important places

Fort McHenry (10)

Counties

Baltimore (440)

Other geographical areas

Piedmont (USA) (1,063)