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Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic ShrineTheme(s): Civil War | |
Description:
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, it was the valiant defense of Fort McHenry by American forces during a British attack on September 13-14, 1814, that inspired 35 year old poet-lawyer, 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.
It became an area administered by the National Park Service in 1933, two years after Key's poem became this country's national anthem. Of all the areas in the National Park System, Fort McHenry is the only one designated a national monument and historic shrine.
Designations:
National Park (March 3, 1925)
National Monument & Historic Shrine (August 11, 1939)
Accessibility:
The Visitor Center is accessible to people using wheelchairs and features a closed-captioned orientation film. The fort is mostly accessible. Portable audio devices are available for wayside exhibits to the fort and through the outer battery. The fort interior features repeating messages activated by motion detectors. You may call the park on TTY through Maryland Relay 1-800-735-2258 or (within Maryland 711).
Activites:
Educational Programs | Bird Watching | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Picnic Areas | Comfort Stations | Museum Exhibits | And more.
Directions to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Plane:
The park is located within ten miles of BWI Airport.
Car:
The park is three miles southeast of the Baltimore Inner Harbor and just off I-95. From northbound or southbound I-95, take exit 55 to Key Highway. From Key Highway turn left on Lawrence Street and left on Fort Avenue. Proceed one mile to the park. From the Baltimore Inner Harbor, take Light Street south to Fort Avenue. Turn left on Fort Avenue and proceed to the park.
Public Transportation
MTA buses stop at the park's front gate.
Attractions:
The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House
Phone:410/837-1793
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