War in the Chesapeake / Surprise Attack / "O! Say Can You See..." - Havre de Grace, MD - War of 1812 on Waymarking.com

The plaque says, "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."

The plaque says, "Cannon and rocket fire shook residents of Havre de Grace from their sleep as the British attacked at dawn May 3, 1813. An eyewitness reported: "Distressed people, women and children half naked" ran from their homes. The local militia fled, too, overwhelmed by 19 barges carrying 400 enemy troops. The attackers burned and plundered the town, torching 40 of the 62 homes.
The British then crossed into Cecil County and destroyed Principio Iron Works before re-boarding their ships the same day. The Principio Foundry produced cannon for Maryland privateers and the U.S. Navy. As "one of the most valuable Works of its Kind in America," it was an important British objective in the Upper Bay.

Drawing
"The enemy robbed every house of everything valuable that could be carried away...and what they could not take conveniently they destroyed..."
- Eyewitness account in Baltimore Niles' Weekly Register, May 22, 1813

Nearby places to learn more about the War of 1812 in the Upper Bay:
• Elkton Visitor Center - Information on Elk Landing, and the town that twice fended off the British
• Rodgers Tavern, Perryville
- Owned by family of Commodore John Rodgers; views of Upper Bay, access to the Susquehanna River
• Historic Elk Landing - Site of Fort Hollingsworth, a defensive earthwork that protected Elkton
• Lower Susquehanna Scenic Byway - 33-mile driving route from Havre de Grace to Perryville, including the historic mill and recreational features at Susquehanna State Park
• Havre de Grace Visitor Center - Information about local 1812 sites"

The plaque says, "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

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Image / Courtesy The American Flag Foundation, Inc.
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.

[map of battle areas in the Chesapeake Bay region]"

Date Erected/Dedicated: Unknown Who put it there? Private/Government?: NPS Location/Address: Havre de Grace, MD, USA County/Province: Harford County Rate the Site: Photos Will Be Uploaded: yes Website (related) if available: Not listed Hours or Restrictions if Appropiate: Not listed

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