Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Fort McHenry History

Throughout the Fort's 200 years, there have been countless troops trained, enemies imprisoned, war strategies planned and ultimately fought within the walls of Fort McHenry. It has provided continued shelter of American soldiers and relentless protection of the American dream. The fort has rightfully become a valued piece of American history.

The Fort was named after the U.S. Secretary of War, James "John" McHenry, in the late 18^th century. McHenry was a soldier, a physician and a politician during his time. He held the position of "Secretary of War" for both the Washington and Adams administrations. He was also one of the few foreign-born signers of the Constitution of the United States. The Fort was built during the height of his political career and is therefore named after him.

Things to See at Fort McHenry

Currently, the Fort is deemed a historic shrine and is surrounded by a national park. The park also contains a national monument to honor Francis Scott Key, the author of the national anthem of the United States - "The Star Spangled Banner". The song was written based off of a poem that Scott Key wrote during the bombings of the War of 1812 entitled "The Defence of Fort McHenry".

Scott Key served during the War of 1812 at Fort McHenry, and he was a born and raised Baltimore man. Therefore, it is only fitting that a monument to his life and his work is safely established in Baltimore at Fort McHenry.

Today, the fort receives hundreds of thousands of visitors a year who come to experience the history and the culture. The fort is also a haven for scientific research, archeology, and nature. The 42-acre national park contains hundreds of small mammals, reptiles and birds to enjoy. The Sea Wall Trail is a picturesque walk along the adjacent sea just outside of the fort where visitors can enjoy the cooling breeze and warm sunshine.

The cultural and historical experiences at Fort McHenry are bountiful. The Fort tells a deep and detailed story of American history that is not to be missed.

Plan Your Trip

When planning your visit to Fort McHenry, there are a variety of options available to make your trip as enjoyable as possible. Self-guided exploration is always an option, but there are also Ranger Talks and group-guided tours to help visitors get the most out of their experience.

There are many places to go including the main visitor center with educational videos and exhibits, the fort itself, which contains many more exhibits. There are also plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, exploring, and flag change programs (weather permitting).

The Star Fort is an exciting place to visit and just a stone's throw away from the main visitor center. Activities there include: Exhibits of historical and military memorabilia, electric battle map, restored barracks, restored flag pole. There are also new exhibits: including the Commander's Quarters, Guard House, Powder Magazine and the Enlisted Men's Quarters.

The surrounding Baltimore metro-area is a hub of culture, history, nightlife and exceptional dining and shopping. Some nearby historical parks include: The Maryland Historical Society Museum, The Flag House Star-Spangled Banner Museum, and The USS Constellation Museum. For a bit more of a drive (but within 100 miles), the sites of the following infamous American battles can be visited: Gettysburg, Antietam, and Monocacy.

2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, Maryland 21230, Phone: 410-962-4290, website, Map