Fort McHenry National Monument

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is located in Baltimore Harbor.   This late 18th century star-shaped fort is world famous as the birthplace of the United States' National Anthem.   The guardian of Baltimore's Harbor from attacks coming up the Chesapeake, it was the valiant defense of Fort McHenry by American forces during a British attack on September 13-14, 1814, that inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.”   Following the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812, the fort never again came under attack.   However, it remained an active military post off and on for the next 100 years.   In 1933 the fort became an area administered by the National Park Service.

The sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry during the War Of 1812 inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the national anthem, the 'Star Spangled Banner.'   A replica of that flag waves over the harbor-side port, now a tranquil National Park.   The restored barracks hold exhibits of military and historical artifacts and a well-kept trail runs along the water's edge, affording spectacular views of ships entering and leaving the busy harbor.

Pops visited here in 1960, and Gram and Pops visited here in the early 2000s.


Click here for pictures of Pops' Trip