“By the Dawn's Early Light..." 🇺🇸⁣ ⁣ On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key penned a poem which was later set to music and in 1931 became America’s national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The poem, originally titled “The Defence of Fort M'Henry,” was written after Key witnessed the Maryland fort being bombarded by the British during the War of 1812. Following a 25-hour bombardment, onlookers glimpsed the huge 30x42-foot American flag flying over the fort, signaling that Fort McHenry had held.⁣ ⁣ In 1933, @fortmchenrynps became an area administered by the National Park Service. Today, visitors to the fort can explore exhibits, participate in programs, and tour restored barracks. ⁣ ⁣ Image: Three park rangers raise the large 15-star garrison flag inside #FortMcHenry. ⁣ ⁣ #baltimore #starspangledbanner #flag #maryland #nationalanthem #warof1812