April 1861: Civil War Comes to Fort McHenry
Special Event
During the Civil War, over 2,000 civilians were arrested and imprisoned in Fort McHenry, including the grandson of Francis Scott Key. These charges varied in severity and veracity, but most of the citizens held in Fort McHenry were held indefinitely, made possible by Lincoln’s wartime suspension of the writ of habeas corpus. Learn about the first bloodshed of the American Civil War and Fort McHenry’s prominent role. Living historians will portray the defenders of April 1861 with demonstrations including guard mount, bayonet drill and field music.
Schedule
10:00 a.m. Rally Round the Flag!—Morning Flag Change and Dress Parade
Location: Star Fort
Location: Star Fort
10:30 a.m. Bayonet Drill
Location: Outside Fort
11:15 a.m. Ranger Program—American Bastille:The Civil War at Fort McHenry
Location: Chesapeake Bay Map
Location: Chesapeake Bay Map
12:00 p.m. “Roast Beef!”—Fife and Drum Program
Location: Inside Fort
Location: Inside Fort
2:15 p.m Ranger Program—American Bastille:The Civil War at Fort McHenry
Location: Chesapeake Bay Map
Location: Chesapeake Bay Map
4:00 p.m. Retreat—Evening Flag Change
Location: Star Fort
Fees
Fort McHenry NM&HS requires an entry fee of $15 per adult (ages 16 and older) in order to enter the Historic Zone (where the historic star fort structure is located). The remaining park grounds, visitor center, and movie are free to visit. Entrance passes can be purchased at the park visitor center from 9 AM - 4 PM. Park registers are cashless. Entrance passes are good for 7 days with a valid receipt. For information go to: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/planyourvisit/fees.htm
Location
Latitude and Longitude 39.263223, -76.579862
Schedule
Date:
Apr 18, 2026
Time:
10:00 AM
Duration:
6 hours
Contact Information
Shannon McLucas
Contact Us
Event Type
- Living History
- Talk
Tags:
american civil war, living history, military history, freedom 250