Discover Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, a historical American coastal pentagonal bastion fort on Locust Point, now a neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland. Best known for its role in the War of 1812, where it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British navy in 1814, this site is a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone visiting the Baltimore area.

History of Fort McHenry

  • Early History: Fort McHenry was built on the site of the former Fort Whetstone, which defended Baltimore from 1776 to 1797. The current fort, designed by Jean Foncin in 1798, was constructed between 1798 and 1800 to protect the increasingly important Port of Baltimore.
  • War of 1812: The fort is renowned for its role in the War of 1812. On September 13-14, 1814, Fort McHenry withstood a 25-hour bombardment by the British navy. This successful defense inspired Francis Scott Key to write “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” later known as “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which became the national anthem of the United States in 1931.
  • Civil War: During the American Civil War, Fort McHenry served as a military prison, confining Confederate soldiers and Maryland political figures who criticized President Abraham Lincoln.
  • 20th Century: The fort continued to be used by the U.S. armed forces through World War I and by the United States Coast Guard in World War II. It was designated a national park in 1925 and redesignated a U.S. National Monument and Historic Shrine in 1939, the only site with this dual designation.

Surrounding Areas

Located in Baltimore, Fort McHenry is easily accessible and surrounded by other attractions:

  • Inner Harbor: Just a short drive away, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers a variety of attractions, including the National Aquarium, museums, restaurants, and shops.
  • Locust Point: The neighborhood where Fort McHenry is located, Locust Point, offers a mix of residential and industrial areas with beautiful waterfront views.
  • Federal Hill: Just south of the Inner Harbor, this historic neighborhood offers pubs, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Other Points of Interest Nearby

Enhance your visit to Fort McHenry by exploring these nearby attractions:

  1. National Aquarium: Explore diverse marine life in award-winning habitats.
  2. Oriole Park at Camden: Catch a baseball game or take a tour of this iconic ballpark, home to the Baltimore Orioles. Website:
  3. Baltimore Museum of Art: Discover a diverse collection of 19th-century, modern, and contemporary art. Website: 
  4. The Walters Art Museum: View collections spanning seven millennia, from ancient art to 19th-century masterpieces. Website: 

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