Battle of North Point
North Point, near Baltimore, Maryland, USA
What happened
In the War of 1812, British troops landed at North Point and marched toward Baltimore. Stricker's militia met them between two creeks. Ross fell early in the fighting, and Brooke took command and forced the Americans back, but they retreated in good order.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The British won the field but at heavy cost, and the delay gave Baltimore's defenders time to finish their earthworks. The loss of Ross hurt British morale.
What came next
The British fleet bombarded Fort McHenry from 13 September for 25 hours but could not take it, and the troops re-embarked. The fort's defence inspired Francis Scott Key's poem that became 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
Did you know?
Short of the right ammunition, the Americans loaded their cannon with broken locks, nails and horseshoes.
Timeline
- 12 September 1814Battle of North Point.
- 13 September 1814The bombardment of Fort McHenry begins.
- 14 September 1814Key sees the flag still flying over the fort.
- 1931 CE'The Star-Spangled Banner' becomes the US national anthem.