Fort McHenry was named in honor of James McHenry, who served as George Washington's Secretary of War and was a native of Baltimore.
Origins of the Name
The fortification we know today as Fort McHenry began as an expansion and transformation of an earlier structure known as Fort Whetstone. In 1798, construction commenced to enhance Fort Whetstone, utilizing durable brick and stone masonry to create a more permanent and robust defensive structure. This newly developed fort was officially designated Fort McHenry.
The decision to name the fort after James McHenry paid tribute to his significant contributions and his local roots. As George Washington's Secretary of War, McHenry played a vital role in the early development of the United States' military infrastructure and policies. His connection to Baltimore, being a native of the city, further solidified the appropriateness of naming this key defensive point in the region after him.
Key Details of the Fort's Naming
To provide a clear overview of the fort's designation:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Named After | James McHenry |
| His Role | Secretary of War under President George Washington |
| His Origin | Native of Baltimore, Maryland |
| Construction Began | 1798 (transforming the earlier Fort Whetstone) |
| Construction Materials | Brick and stone masonry, creating a more permanent structure |
This naming choice reflected a common practice of honoring prominent figures of the time by associating their names with significant public works and defense installations. Fort McHenry would later gain historical prominence during the War of 1812, famously inspiring Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner" after witnessing its successful defense against British bombardment in 1814.
For more detailed information on the fort's history, you can visit the National Park Service website.
