Benedict in Charles County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
The British are Coming
Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
The British had something big in mind. From Benedict, they could reach Washington, Annapolis, and Baltimore. Americans, unsure of the target, had to position their meager forces to defend these possibilities. The British departed Benedict eight days later, after a victorious battle at Bladensburg and a destructive occupation of the Nation's Capital.
[text with images on right] "I feel no hesitation in stating...that I consider the town of Benedict in Patuxent to offer us advantages...beyond any other spot within the United States..." - British Rear Admiral George Cockburn, July 17, 1814.
James Madison (who served as secretary of state and secretary of war, and later as U.S. president) scouted the approaching British fleet from a rise above Benedict.
Major General Robert Ross commanded the British army gathering at Benedict.
Nearby places to learn more about the War of 1812:
Nottingham - A base for the U.S. Chesapeake Flotilla and later a British encampment; interpretive signage
Sotterley Plantation - Restored 18th-century plantation and slave quaters; period gardens; a mustering site for militia during the war
King's Landing Park - Boat access; interpretation of 1814 British raids along the Patuxent River
[Side 2]
O! say can you see..."
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail traces the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake. Along the trail you'll encounter tangible evidence of the war and stories that bring the people and events to life. Discover the far-reaching impacts of the war on this county and the world.
[Side 3]
War in the Chesapeake
During the War of 1812 the young United States was embroiled in conflict with Great Britain. From 1812 to 1815 Americans fought to protect their rights and economic independence. They faced superior enemy forces on the homefront and the high seas.
The stategically important Chesapeake Bay region felt the brunt of the war, choked by shipping blockades and ravaged by enemy raids. The events in this region were crucial to the outcome of the war.
Though there was no clear victor at the end of the war, the United States protected its democracy and emerged with heightened stature on the world stage.
Erected by National Parks Service.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War of 1812. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #04 James Madison, and the Star Spangled Banner National Historic Trail series lists. A significant historical month for this entry is June 1814.
Location. 38° 30.624′ N, 76° 40.681′ W. Marker is in Benedict, Maryland, in Charles County. Marker is at the intersection of Benedict Avenue and Potomac Avenue, on the left when traveling south on Benedict Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Benedict MD 20612, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. British Have Landed (within shouting distance of this marker); Benedict (approx. 0.4 miles away); Camp Stanton (approx. 0.4 miles away); British Vengeance (approx. 0.8 miles away); Solid Ground (approx. 0.8 miles away); On This Farm (approx. 0.8 miles away); a different marker also named Camp Stanton (approx. 0.8 miles away); Enemy Camp (approx. 0.9 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Benedict.
Additional keywords. Star Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
Credits. This page was last revised on April 19, 2022. It was originally submitted on August 24, 2013, by F. Robby of Baltimore, Maryland. This page has been viewed 953 times since then and 40 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on April 17, 2022, by Shane Oliver of Richmond, Virginia. 4. submitted on August 24, 2013, by F. Robby of Baltimore, Maryland. 5. submitted on March 4, 2015, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland.