Fort McHenry National Monument

Fort McHenry was a fort that existed during the early 1800s during the war of 1812. It served as an important fortress to hold the advance of the British navy and, since then has had other historical events take place in it, like the creation of the United States' national anthem. Fort McHenry was made a national park in the 1920s. Since then, it has gained historical value to the state of Baltimore, and to the country. A tradition regularly observed here is that whenever a new flag is designated (the first were 49 and 50-star US flags), it is first flown over the fort.

1) Fort McHenry as a National Monument

Since its status as a national monument, the fort has become a place of recreation and historical appreciation. Defenders Day, the biggest celebration held in the fort's grounds, commemorates the Battle of Baltimore, and is full of activities, programs, and fireworks for visitors to take part in. Nearby museums and other establishments are also open to the public to complement the historic values already displayed during one's visit to Fort McHenry. Brookshire Inns and Suites, a hotel in Baltimore Maryland, is one of a few establishments that are a short distance from the fort, which could relatively improve the guests' familiarity with the rich history it presents.

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2) The Star-Spangled Banner

Already known to many, especially to the Americans, Fort McHenry is the birthplace of their national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner". The song (or poem, as it was first composed) represents the American Spirit. It was inspired by tenacity of an oversized custom-made American flag flown over the fort to a bombardment done during a war at that time.

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