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Fort McHenry National Monument

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From a naval vessel offshore in the Patapsco River, Francis Scott Key witnessed the 25-hour bombardment of this late 18th-century star-shaped fort at the entrance to Baltimore's Inner Harbor. A barrage of 1,500 to 1,800 bombs, rockets and shells was fired until after midnight. In the morning, when he saw the stars and stripes still waving, Key began to write the immortal lines of the National Anthem on the back of a letter.

Fort McHenry is the only area in the National Park System designated a national monument and historic shrine. The year-round visitors center contains various exhibits on fort history and the War of 1812; group tours are available. The Star Fort Museum, within 200 yards of the Fort McHenry Visitor Center, exhibits historical and military memorbilia with new exhibits in the Commander's Quarters, Guard House, and restored barracks and flagpole.

Location: 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore Maryland 21230 Telephone 410-962-4290

Other History nearby:
(Washington) African-American Civil War Memorial
(Alexandria) Alexandria Black History Resource Center
(Washington) Anacostia Museum
(Washington) Anderson House
(Arlington) Arlington National Cemetery
(Arlington) Arlington National Cemetery

02/21 Coming to The Baltimore area
Dewey Beach PopFest Dewey Beach DE April12-13 Features three nights of showcase performances and two days of demo and mentoring sessions, tradeshow, and industry events.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Washington DC March20-April14 The nation’s greatest springtime celebration unites for four spectacular weekends including the Cherry Blossom Parade.
Pork in the Park BBQ Festival Salisbury MD April19-21 Follow your nose to the Pork in the Park BBQ Festival. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this Eastern Shore staple will be served up April 19-21st at Salisbury's WinterPlace Park.
Galena Dogwood Festival Galena MD May4 The annual Galena Dogwood Festival is will take place throughout Galena. The parade will have a War of 1812 theme.
Dover Days Festival Dover DE May3-5 As one of the longest running festivals in the state of Delaware, Dover Days dates back to 1933. What started as a garden tour staged by the Dover Garden Club, has now become an annual time to remember First State heritage with community spirit and an entertaining festival of family events.
Dover Days Festival Dover DE May3-5 You can claim Dover, Delaware, the capital city of the First State, as your state capital during the 80th anniversary celebration of the Dover Days Festival!.