Event
“Declaration of War - June 1812” The First Baltimore Volunteers, 1812-1813
Fee:
For events that take place inside the Star Fort Historic Zone, regular entry fees do apply.Dates & Times
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Type of Event
Description
On June 18, 2022 Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine will offer special programs focusing on the June 18, 1812 Declaration of War. The day will feature a recreation of the First Baltimore Volunteers 1812 – 1813 with artillery demonstrations, speeches, issuing of muskets to the “Baltimore Bloodhounds” and presentation of colors.
The First Baltimore Volunteers was organized as U.S. Volunteers for a year enlistment under the act of February 6,1812 authorizing the President to accept volunteer militia corps, serving under the same regulations and pay as the U.S. Army. On September 9, they left Baltimore with an elegant silk flag made by the patriotic ladies of the seventh ward. After arriving at a rendezvous encampment, they marched northward to Sacketts Harbor, New York on April 27, 1813. From there they proceeded with the American army to attack York (Toronto), the capital of Upper British Canada. The Americans captured York, which they held on to for five days. The Baltimore “Bloodhounds” as they were nicknamed, proudly placed their ensign on the highest pinnacle of the Government House in the Capitol of Upper Canada. It had been made by the ladies of Baltimore. On September 7, 1813, at Fort George, Upper Canada, the Baltimore Volunteers were discharged and returned home, where they re-organized under Lt. Colonel Benjamin Fowler’s 39th Maryland Regiment, who would take an active role in the Battle of North Point, September 12, 1814.
Throughout the day visitors can experience the sights and sounds of the War of 1812 through living history demonstrations. Hear the roar of the drums as the Baltimore “Bloodhounds” of the Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corps echo across the parade ground. Take a walk through the Star Fort with a ranger to learn about the causes of the War of 1812. Help our rangers raise the stars and stripes over the ramparts.
Visitors may also explore the exhibits and feature movie in the Visitor and Education Center.
Fee for entrance into the historic Star Fort is $15 per adult (age 16 years and up). America the Beautiful National Parks Passes are also accepted.
Visitors can attend the following schedule:
10:00 a.m. – Flag Change – post colors at JOQ Star Fort
10:30 a.m. – March to Water Battery
11:00 a.m. – Artillery Demonstration – Water Battery
11:15 – Ranger Talk – "War on the Chesapeake"- VC
1:15 – Flag Talk - VC
2:00 p.m. - Artillery Demonstration – Water Battery
2:15 p.m. – Battle of Baltimore - Ranger Talk
3:00 p.m. – Declaration of War program – Water Battery
4:00 p.m. – Baltimore Volunteers program, issue of muskets - Star Fort
5:00 p.m. – Flag Change, Final Formation - Star Fort
Reservation or Registration: No
Image Gallery
NPS/Tim Ervin