Constructed in 1798, Fort McHenry protected the city of Baltimore during the War of 1812. It went on to become a hospital during WWI and a training site for the US Coast Guard in WWII. In 1933, the fort was transferred to the National Park Service, becoming the first and only Historic Shrine.
Fort McHenry


Left image
1939 Photo from Fort McHenry, overlooking the Patapsco River with vessels in the background
Credit: NPS Photo
Right image
Modern image from same location at Fort McHenry, overlooking the river
Credit: NPS Photo
Fort McHenry Flagpole


Left image
Ca. 1907-1915 image of the sally port from inside the Star Fort.
Credit: NPS/John Dubas
Right image
The famous flagpole that now stands inside the Star Fort is not at its existing location in the historic photo.
Credit: NPS Photo
Star Fort


Left image
Ca. 1907-195 image shows the Star Fort walls and bomb proofs with Patapsco River in background
Credit: NPS Photo/John Dubas
Right image
A modern view of the Star Fort walls and bomb proofs
Credit: NPS Photo
Learn More
To learn more about Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, check out their website!
Last updated: August 22, 2023