Fort McHenry National Park is set to commemorate its centenary and the annual Defenders’ Day from September 12 to 14. The event honors the successful defense of Baltimore against a British attack in 1814, and the individuals who fought to establish Fort McHenry as a national park in 1925. Defenders’ Day, celebrated since 1815, is Baltimore’s oldest holiday.
This year’s Defenders’ Day activities will delve into the dedication and bravery of those who served at Fort McHenry from the American Revolution to the 20th century. The event underscores the significance of Fort McHenry in national history, being a symbol of American resilience and freedom.
The centenary celebration also marks 100 years since Fort McHenry was declared a national park. This milestone is a testament to the generations of defenders who fought not only in battles but also for the preservation of the fort as a national symbol. The weekend’s events will offer a deep dive into the fort’s rich history and the pivotal role it played in shaping the nation.