The Star-Spangled Banner                          

This Sunday, September 14, 2014, will mark the 200th anniversary of the penning of our National Anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner".  Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, had gone aboard a British ship to seek the release of his friend, Dr. William Bean.  Dr. Bean was held prisoner under the suspicion he was an American spy.  Mr. Key presented evidence to the contrary--letters from British soldiers which detailed how Dr. Bean had tended to their injuries.  The British leader agreed to release Dr. Bean, but not until after the 25 hour siege upon America's Fort McHenry, in Maryland.  From an enemy ship in the dawn of September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key was overwhelmed with joy to see that the 15-star American flag had survived the brutal bombardment, and he penned the poem, "In Defense of Fort McHenry".  It was published, and was sung to the melody of “To Anacreon in Heaven,” a British drinking song.  A few weeks later, a song publisher changed the name to "The Star-Spangled Banner".  In 1931, it became the official National Anthem of The United States of America.

Every year in September, my 1st-4th grade students review the words and history of our National Anthem.  Ask them about the meaning of these words:  spangled, dawn, broad, ramparts, and gallantly. They are also taught how to show proper respect to our flag, and how to properly respond when "The Star-Spangled Banner" is played.  You will be surprised how much they know!  Please review the lyrics of this wonderful song with your child.  Each child who successfully recites the words will receive a sticker that says, "I know The Star-Spangled Banner".

This is a link to an aerial video of Fort McHenry, produced by National Geographic:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3-6zugC2Ug

Here's a site that has many interesting facts, including a quiz:
http://amhistory.si.edu/starspangledbanner/