Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Birthplace of the National Anthem

O say can you see, by the dawns early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars . . . were so gallantly streaming! over the star-shaped Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore, September 13-14, 1814. The valiant defense of the fort by 1,000 dedicated Americans inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner.

An Old-Fashioned Fourth!

Fort McHenry Commemorates July 4th in Grand Style

Independence Day will be celebrated at Fort McHenry in true wild and historic fashion with cannon-firing, toasting and feasting! “Our ancestors knew how to blend the solemnity and importance of the occasion with a good party,” says Ranger Vince, Chief of Interpretation, who will be dressed in full historic dress for the occasion.
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Groundbreaking for a new visitor center - April 27, 2009.

Construction of a New Visitor Center - Track the Progress!

As of May 2009, Fort McHenry NM&HS will embark upon the construction of a new visitor center. Operational changes will be necessary during the construction period.
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A group of students enjoying a lesson in the Defenders Room.

Teacher's Guide

Lessons written for grades 4 and 8, prepared using the Maryland State Department of Education Voluntary State Curriculum standards. These lessons may be used for both pre-visit and post-visit purposes.
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Group Arrangements

These are the details every group leader needs to plan a successful visit. Schedule a video, a group program and assist with daily flag changes.
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Write to

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230-5393

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(410) 962-4290

Group Arrangements
(410) 962-4290 ext. 243

Fax

(410) 962-2500

Climate

Mostly sunny, with humid, rainy periods throughout the year. Cold winters. Tends to be windy all year round. Summers generally hot and humid. Wear comfortable sportswear in season, with walking shoes.