On the 13th September 1814 a star shaped fortress in the entrance to Baltimore harbour foiled British attempts to capture the city, which had been harbouring privateers who had sunk or captured 500 British ships. Its name was Fort McHenry.
About 2000 shells and 800 rockets were fired at it in the next 24 hours. The commander of the fort was Major George Armistead. He had 1000 men and 57 guns at his disposal. Above the fort flew an enormous American flag, 42 feet by 30 feet and hand made by Mary Pickersgrill.
An American lawyer, Francis Scott Key, who had witnessed the bombardment from 8 miles away went on to write the words to The Star Spangled Banner.
It was published straightaway by numerous newspapers and was an instant success.
In 1931 Congress declared it the National Anthem.
I have always been fascinated with the Vauban star shape forts.
Morning Worsham. Have you seen one?
You seem to be very good at preserving historic sites. It would be shameful to forget our ancestors’ sacrifices.
Had the British been able to focus their full force or resolve how long would the War of 1812 lasted before a British victory?
I think England only had one concern: Napoleon.
As you said Worsham, I am not sure it had its heart in a war with you too.
Did it have the resources and will to fight what would become a major trading partner and possible ally? I don’t think so.
