The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail can help students to explore the War of 1812, a pivotal but often forgotten moment in American history.
The Trail offers many lesson plans and educational resources related to the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake. There are additional resources from Maryland Public Television's Thinkport, American Battlefield Trust, and the Friends of Fort McHenry.
Teachers in the Chesapeake Bay region can also participate in the Trail Stewards Program. Through this program, operated in partnership with Living Classrooms Foundation, students learn about their piece of the Trail’s history in order to inspire future preservation and conservation of special places in their communities. The program involves an on-water experience, classroom resources, and assistance in developing a community-based service learning project for the class. Contact Living Classrooms Foundation for more information.
Addtional NPS Resources

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Star-Spangled Banner Trail Resources
Explore some of the NPS educational resources related to the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake Bay.
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Fort McHenry Lesson Plans
Browse lesson plans from the Trail's headquarters, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine.
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Educational Programs at President's Park
Explore educational resources related to the British invasion of Washington, D.C. at President's Park.
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The Octagon House
This lesson plan focuses on US History and politics and Society in the Early Republic, the War of 1812 and creation of Washington DC.
Last updated: March 30, 2022