Lorton in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
War in the Chesapeake
Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
— War of 1812 —
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 strategically 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.
Explore this pivotal time in American history along the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
(Panel 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 country and the world.
Experience the Trail
• Drive through rural landscapes and historic communities
• Paddle or cruise waterways where British and American troops once traveled
• Witness battles at reenactment events
• View the original Star-Spangled Banner flag and visit the house where it was made
• Hike or bike trails with stops at historic sites and scenic overlooks
• Join in commemorative events throughout the region
(caption)
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
After a 25-hour bombardment, soldiers at Fort McHenry raised a large American flag early on September 14, 1814. That flag, signaling British retreat, inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the words that became America's national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner
(Panel 3)
Chesapeake Engagements, 1814
Erected by National Park Service-U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War of 1812. A significant historical month for this entry is September 1648.
Location. 38° 38.54′ N, 77° 12.026′ W. Marker is in Lorton, Virginia, in Fairfax County. Marker can be reached from Mason Neck State Park Road, 1˝ miles west of High Point Road. The marker is in Mason Neck State Park near the head of the Bayview Trail over looking Belmont Bay. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 7301 High Point Road, Lorton VA 22079, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Delaying Tactics (a few steps from this marker); Birds Then and Now (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); At Home in an Ecotone (about 400 feet away); "Spirit of America" (approx. 0.2 miles away); Vision, Initiative, and Dedication (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Nation's River (approx. 1.7 miles away); East Coast Radio Transmitting Station (approx. 1.9 miles away); Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge (approx. 2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lorton.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on March 6, 2015, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. This page has been viewed 386 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. submitted on March 6, 2015, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.