Francis Scott Key Memorial

Francis Scott Key Park

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts

Location:

34th and M Streets NW, Washington, DC

Significance:

Memorial and Park

Designation:

Memorial

Amenities

3 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible

The small but formal park and memorial is located at 34th and M Street, NW, Washington DC, in the Georgetown neighborhood. It was built by the Francis Scott Key Foundation and donated to the National Park Service in 1993.

The site includes a bronze bust of Francis Scott Key, wayside exhibits explaining his story, and an American flag depicting the year 1814 when Key penned his now famous poem. The poem was set to the tune of "To Anacreon in Heaven" and became the United States' national anthem in 1931.

Key and his family lived in a house near the contemporary memorial from circa 1805 to 1830. After serving as a series of private businesses, the house was eventually dismantled and stored at the location of the memorial in 1947 for the construction of the Whitehurst Freeway.

Inscriptions

Dedication

Francis Scott Key Park / The Star-Spangled Banner Monument / Dedicated September 14, 1993

Bust
FRANCIS SCOTT KEY / BRONZE / 1985 / SCULPTOR BETTY MAILHOUSE DUNSTON