Existing comment:
Archeology at Fort McHenry:
Archeological excavations have been going on at the fort since the late 1950s. These digs have revealed important information about the fort and the people who have lived and served here.
Uncovering the history of the fort:
The digs at Fort McHenry have proven that the core of the 1814 fort is still present, although much has changed. An active post for over 100 years after the battle, earthworks have been moved, defenses enhanced, and outmoded structures torn down. You can't tell just from looking around, however, evidence remains underground.
What was life like at the fort?
One of archeology's main contributions to our understanding of the past is what it can tell us about the everyday lives of the men and women who lived and worked at the fort. Many of the artifacts found tell us what they wore, what they ate, and how they passed their time.
The Star-Spangled Banner:
The most exciting archeological find at Fort McHenry to date is the cross brace for the flagpole which carried the Star-Spangled Banner during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814. Seeing this flag flying inspired Francis Scott Key to write his famous song. This discovery led the National Park Service to move the flagpole to its original location. |