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O'er the Ramparts We Watch!
Which Flag Flies Today?
The forts walls are called ramparts. An American flag flies over Fort McHenry twenty four hours a day by Presidential Proclamation.
The size of the flag varies. On clear days with the right amount of wind, a full-size replica of the Star-Spangled Banner measuring 30 X 42 feet with fifteen stars and stripes waves. The fort also flies smaller versions of this flag. On rainy days and at night, a small, modern 50-star American flag is flown.
In 1948, a proclamation issued by President Harry S. Truman stated that
"as a perpetual symbol of our patriotism, the flag of the United States shall hereafter be displayed at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine at all times during the day and night, except when weather is inclement."
At night, the flag is illuminated by lights powered by solar panels. |