Fort McHenry

The star-shaped Fort McHenry was made famous in 1814 during the Battle of Baltimore by Francis Scott Key's poem "The Defense of Fort McHenry." In 1931, Key's renowned poem became the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." Students learn about the fort's commander, Major George Armistead, about Fort McHenry's flag, and about the fort's designation as a national monument and historic shrine--the only place in the country today with such a title.