George Armistead

This 1914 statue of George Armistead by Edward Berge stands at Fort McHenry National Monument.

"During the War of 1812, Col. George Armistead (1779-1818) was in command of Fort McHenry when Maryland was invaded by the British on September 13 and 14, 1814. For twenty-five hours, Armistead and his men endured a heavy bombardment from the British. During the bombardment, Francis Scott Key was held on one of the enemy's ships, where he had gone on an official mission. It was on the ship's deck that he composed the verses of the 'Star Spangled Banner.' Funds for the monument were provided by the City of Baltimore and the Society of the War of 1812."

To

Col. George Armistead

April 10, 1779 – April 25, 1818

Commander of this Fort

During the Bombardment

by the British Fleet

Sept. 13-14 1814

War of 1812

Erected Sept. 12, 1914

 By the City of Baltimore

Soc War of 1812 contributing

In Commemoration of the Gallant

Defense of Fort McHenry

Under the command of

Col. George Armistead

which was the inspiration of the

National Anthem

The Star-Spangled Banner.

See also The Portrait Gallery: George Armistead