Francis Scott Key - Baltimore, MD
Posted by: 
bluesnote
N 39° 15.851 W 076° 34.930
18S E 363504 N 4347286
A large sculpture in memory of Francis Scott Key.
Waymark Code: WM14W3R
Location: Maryland, United States
Date Posted: 08/30/2021
Views: 2
The granite inscription says, "To Francis Scott Key author of the Star Spangled Banner and to the soldiers and sailors who took part in the Battle of North Point and the defense of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812."
The plaque says, "In 1916 the Fine Arts Commission sponsored a national competition for a statue to honor Francis Scott Key and the defenders who protected Baltimore during the War of 1812. It chose "Orpheus" by Charles Niehaus.
America's involvement in World War I delayed the completion of the statue. Dedicated on Flag Day, June 14, 1922, and originally placed in the middle of the entrance road, it was moved to its current location in 1962.
Orpheus and the surrounding grove of Flowering crabapple trees show the transformation of Fort McHenry from an active military base to a place of reflection and commemoration.
[Side bar:]
For many years the Orpheus statue has served as the centerpiece for the annual commemoration of the Battle of Baltimore."
Relevant Web Site: Not listed
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