Updated May 25, 2023
About Fort McHenry National Monument
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine are in Baltimore, Maryland, a national park commemorating the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812. The Fort is prominent for protecting Baltimore Harbor from a British attack in 1814. Francis Scott Key wrote the “Star-Spangled Banner” poem, which later became the United States national anthem and is one of the most remembered. In 1925, the National Park Service designated the Fort a National Monument and Historical Shrine and now operates it. The Fort features a visitor center, exhibits, a museum, and ranger-led programs. Visitors can explore the grounds and climb the battlements to get a unique view of Baltimore Harbor.
History
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a historic American fort in Baltimore, Maryland. It is prominent for its significant role in the War of 1812, when it safeguarded Baltimore Harbor from a British naval attack. President Calvin Coolidge established it as a national monument and historic shrine on August 25, 1925. The United States Army constructed the Fort in 1798 and named it after James McHenry, a prominent Marylander who had served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
The British Royal Navy bombarded the Fort during the War of 1812 in an attempt to take Baltimore Harbor. On September 13, 1814, the Fort successfully defended the city, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the famous poem that would become the lyrics to the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
The Fort fell into disrepair in the years after the War of 1812. In the late 19th century, the Fort was renovated and improved with the addition of a seawall and moat. During World War I, Soldiers used the Fort as a training ground. In the 1920s, the Fort was restored and designated a national monument and historic shrine. Today, Fort McHenry is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of the War of 1812. The National Park Service offers guided tours, educational programs, and annual special events. The Fort is also home to several monuments and memorials dedicated to those who served during the War of 1812, including a monument to Francis Scott Key and a memorial to the African Americans who fought in the conflict.
Civil War
The Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine are famous for their crucial part during the War of 1812 when it successfully safeguarded Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British Navy in 1814. During the American Civil War, the Fort served as a prison for Confederate prisoners of war. Confederate forces targeted the Fort and subjected it to artillery bombardment to break the Union blockade of Baltimore Harbor. Unfortunately, the Fort’s defense of the harbor proved unsuccessful, and in April 1865, Union forces compelled the Fort to abandon its position.
World War I
People have preserved the Fort as a national monument and a popular tourist destination. It was denominated a National Historic Landmark in 1925 and is one of the most visited sites in Maryland.
World War II
The Fort McHenry National Monument honors the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812 when American forces successfully safeguarded Baltimore Harbor from the British invasion. Francis Scott Key wrote the words to the “Star-Spangled Banner” after being inspired by the Fort. In 1925, the National Park Service designated the site as a National Monument and Historical Shrine and operated it. Visitors can explore the original fort and museum exhibits, attend special events and programs, and take ranger-led tours.
National Monument
This Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a historical American coastal fort in Baltimore, Maryland. It was built in 1798 and was the location of the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812. It is best known for inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the poem “Defence of Fort M’HenryM’Henry,” which was later set to music and became the national anthem of the United States of America. The Fort is now part of the National Park Service and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the Fort’sFort’s grounds, watch an educational movie about the Fort, and tour the historic barracks and other buildings. There are also ranger-led programs, special events, and concerts throughout the year.
Conclusion
The Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a beautiful reminder of the importance of the War of 1812. It is a testament to the courage and resilience of the American people during a time of great uncertainty and change. It preserves a piece of our nation’s history and provides a place to reflect on the sacrifices and courage of those who defended our country. The Fort was declared a national monument in 1925 and has been an essential part of American history. Its iconic flag and inspiring story continue to be sources of inspiration and pride in our country.
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