Bastion 5

A group of visitors watch a ranger program taking place on Bastion 5.

NPS/Tim Ervin

Quick Facts

Location:

Baltimore, MD

Significance:

One of the main areas that faced bombardment during the Battle of Baltimore.

Amenities

5 listed

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

Bastion 5 is possibly the most scenic of Fort McHenry's main star fort structure. Depending on what direction visitors look they can see views of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, entrance to the Baltimore harbor, Navy ships (both historic and modern depending on their luck), and views of the city of Baltimore. Bastion 5 also allows access to a brick path that runs along the ramparts leading visitors to bastions 4 and 3. 

From this point, several key markers of the Battle of Baltimore can be seen. When looking back towards the city of Baltimore take note of a large green space in the distance with a flag pole flying the American flag. Today this is Patterson Park, but in 1814 this was known as Hampstead Hill. It was there that American soldiers, militia, and citizens came together to dig large earthworks and a force of 15,000 troops stood in the way of 5,000 British soldiers on their way to burn Baltimore. It was the defenses of Hampstead Hill that forced the British Navy to attack Fort McHenry in order to attempt to get into the Baltimore harbor. 

In additon Francis Scott Key's position while observing the battle is out on the river about three miles from the location of this bastion. Additionally the British ships that bombarded the fort were two miles off shore. For reference the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the distance is roughly four miles away.