Last updated: January 13, 2026
Place
Star Fort Historic Zone
NPS/Tim Ervin
Quick Facts
Location:
Baltimore, MD
Significance:
The historic fort that was bombarded by the British in 1814, inspiring the Star-Spangled Banner.
Designation:
National Monument and Historic Shrine
Amenities
15 listed
Accessible Rooms, Accessible Sites, Baby Changing Station, Benches/Seating, Captioned Media, Cellular Signal, First Aid Kit Available, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Recycling, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible
Built to defend Baltimore's harbor, the star fort structure was completed in 1803 and named after James McHenry, Washington's Secretary of War and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. This structure, as well as water batteries that would have surrounded it, stood between the British Navy and the city during the War of 1812 and most notably during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814. The British Navy bombarded this fort for 25 hours but was unable to remove the defenders from its walls, forcing the invading force to withdraw and saving Baltimore from destruction. This event inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star-Spangled Banner, today's National Anthem.
The fort remained an active military installation far beyond the War of 1812. Today, the fort most resembles its Civil War era appearance with two-story inner buildings and an outer battery area featuring Rodman cannons dating to the 1860's. The Civil War period found the fort acting as a Union prison for both prisoners of war and political prisoners who favored secession. The fort's busiest time period was during the First World War where it was the centerpiece of a 3,000-bed hospital built on the grounds surrounding it. Shortly after the First World War the fort was removed from active military use, although it was recalled into action during the Second World War as a Coast Guard training facility.
As you enter the fort explore the various rooms in the buildings that tell the many stories of the fort's long history. Follow paths on top of the ramparts and outer battery that provide scenic and historic view sheds and take a step back in time with interpretive programs.
The fort remained an active military installation far beyond the War of 1812. Today, the fort most resembles its Civil War era appearance with two-story inner buildings and an outer battery area featuring Rodman cannons dating to the 1860's. The Civil War period found the fort acting as a Union prison for both prisoners of war and political prisoners who favored secession. The fort's busiest time period was during the First World War where it was the centerpiece of a 3,000-bed hospital built on the grounds surrounding it. Shortly after the First World War the fort was removed from active military use, although it was recalled into action during the Second World War as a Coast Guard training facility.
As you enter the fort explore the various rooms in the buildings that tell the many stories of the fort's long history. Follow paths on top of the ramparts and outer battery that provide scenic and historic view sheds and take a step back in time with interpretive programs.