Sarbanes Applauds Debut of Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

Site is a one-stop shop for planning a visit to Maryland's treasured historic trail

TOWSON – U.S. Congressman John P. Sarbanes (D-Md.) today applauded the debut of the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail's website, which provides historical information about the trail, tips for visits and a comprehensive map.

"As we celebrate the War of 1812 bicentennial, this website will be an invaluable resource to visitors as they learn about the historic events that unfolded right in our backyard," said Congressman Sarbanes. "Many refer to the War of 1812 as the ‘second war of independence.' Events in Maryland, most notably the heroic defense of Fort McHenry, ensured that our young nation survived the trials of war and set the stage for the spread of democracy around the world."

Congressman Sarbanes authored legislation to create the 290 mile Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, which officially marks some of the most historic sites from the War of 1812 in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Stops along the trail include the sites of the battles between the British Navy and the American Chesapeake Flotilla in St. Leonard's Creek in Calvert County; the battle of North Point; the burning of the U.S. Capitol and White House; and the successful American defense of Fort McHenry, which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that became our national anthem as he witnessed the Battle of Baltimore and the ultimate defeat of the British.

Visitors can reach the website at http://starspangledtrail.net/ and can find information about special events, as well as detailed directions for finding key stops along the trail.