Fort McHenry National Park, with it’s prominent
history and glorious star-shaped design, is best related
to paired with the War of 1812. The fort played the key
role in the defense of the Baltimore Harbor when attacked
in Chesapeake Bay by the British. Fort McHenry National
Monument is the dedicated symbol to the September battle
of 1814. More than 1,000 courageous Americans fought valiantly
for their country and defended it against an abrasive
British attack. It was during this important time in American
history that the now world famous United States anthem
was inspired and written by Francis Scott Key. Over the
following century Fort McHenry Baltimore was never attacked
a second time though it did remain a paramount military
post throughout the century.
In 1933 the area that would become Fort McHenry National
Park was officially administered by the National Park
Service. This was two years following the poem-cum-national
anthem became the official anthem for the entire country.
The uniqueness of Fort McHenry Baltimore is that it’s
designated as both a Historic Shrine and as a National
Monument. Fort McHenry National Monument is named after
James McHenry. McHenry was part Scottish and Irish, an
immigrant who later became a surgeon and a soldier in
the United States. In later years he was the Secretary
of War presiding under President Washington. Fort McHenry
Natioanl Monument is located inside the fort which is
built directly into the opening of where the Inner Harbor,
a top Baltimore attraction,
is located.
There are many fun and interesting things
to do when visiting Fort McHenry National Park. It’s
advised that visitors begin their Maryland
tours of the park at the visitors center where a short
film, The Defense of Fort McHenry, helps to broaden the
understanding of the fort’s history. The film is
presented three times each hour. Gift shopping is possible
at the visitors center where there are also restrooms
and a number of exhibits. Moving on to the tour of Fort
McHenry Baltimore, visitors should plan at least an hour
for a good look around. The tour is easily a self-guided
one.
Many times of the year there are special events held throughout the year such as National Flag Day, Living American Flag, The Star-Spangled Banner Weekend and twilight tattoo ceremonies. Guests can check the calender of events to see what might be happening around their visit. In the summer time, ranger talks are quite popular. Well-versed tour guides explain the history of Fort McHenry National Monument, the events surrounding the fort and an in depth explanation of the battle with the British. Musket, artillery and drill demonstrations are performed by the on suty guard, presenting a very real-seeming atmosphere at the fort.
The Inner Harbor is a central gathering point for locals and visitors in Baltimore throughout the year. There are many attractions focused in the area such as Port Discovery, the highly acclaimed Maryland Science Center and the ever-loved and exciting National Aquarium. Those visiting the city will inevitably find themselves exploring the area. Fort McHenry is only a few miles south east of the harbor and is easily reached by car rental or public transport. With the city more than deserving of a few days’ exploration, the excellent variety of Baltimore hotels will accommodate any size group for a city sojourn.
