Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

— War of 1812 —

The mouth of Harris Creek was once part of Baltimore's thriving maritime industry. David Stodder began building ships here in the 1780s.
The first U.S. Navy frigate, Constellation, launched from Stodders Shipyard in 1797 and played an active role in the War of 1812. Although a British blockade kept if from sea, its cannon and crew protected Norfolk and Portsmouth harbors.

"Old Defender" George Roberts, a free black from Canton, was a gunner on the privateer Chasseur in 1814 and participated in several battles while at sea. Roberts proudly participated in Baltimore' annual War of 1812 Defenders Day parades until his death at 95.

"Resolved, That owners of the vessels now moored and mad fast, at or near the wharves of the city, are hereby directed to remove their vessels immediately to some place below Harris's Creek for the greater security..."Minutes, Committee of Vigilance and Safety, August 26, 1814.

(Inscription under the engraving in the center) This 1800 engraving showing shipbuilding in Philadelphia resembles work that took place on the Constitution at the Stodder Shipyard, once located here, and highlighted on the map.

(Inscription under the map at the lower center) Plan of the town of Baltimore, 1793-Image courtesy Library of Congress.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Baltimore, MD  |  21224  |  Maryland  |  United States of America

Baltimore Regional Trail
Captain John O'Donnell
Historic Canton
Maryland Korean War Memorial, a War Memorial
The Canton Library
General Casimir Pulaski
Frederick Douglass
Caulkers' Houses
The Robert Long House
732 South Ann Street

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.