Francis Scott Key wrote the National Anthem today back in 1814.
But why was he in Baltimore Harbor to begin with?
He was seeking the release of Dr. William Beanes – a man who served as Army surgeon caring for wounded soldiers in the War for Independence. He had been imprisoned by the British for protecting American citizens in Upper Marlboro, Maryland from badly behaved British soldiers.
While negotiating Dr. Beanes’ release, a battle begin at Fort McHenry and Francis Scott Key wasn’t allowed to leave. It was during this battle that he wrote the famous lines of the “Star Spangled Banner”.
“Oh say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light. . .”
Today, Dr. William Beanes grave is just outside Washington, D.C. beside an abandoned school building. If there was an accurate plaque on site, it would read, “Here lies a distinguished American patriot, forgotten by his country.”
