The Star-Spangled Banner Manuscript Heading to The Smithsonian

The Star-Spangled Banner, penned by Francis Scott Key in 1814 during the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry, is the most popular piece of patriotic American music ever written.In the summer of 2014, for the first time ever, the original 1814 manuscript will travel from its permanent home at The Maryland Historical Society (MdHS) to be united with the flag that inspired it at the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

This event, taking place from June 14 July 6, 2014, is a part of Maryland's Star-Spangled Summer 2014, the final months of historic events and celebrations set to take place from Flag Day (June 14, 2014) through Defender's Day (September 14, 2014) to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the writing of the national anthem.

"This is a story that cuts to the very fabric of our national identity. As we join our friends at the Maryland 1812 Bicentennial Commission, Star Spangled 200 and Fort McHenry, we are now telling the country that the citizens of our unique democratic republic are in for both a special treat and an important history lesson," says MdHS President Burt Kummerow.

The return of the Star-Spangled manuscript to its permanent home at the Maryland Historical Society on July 7 is but one of many events planned throughout the summer in Baltimore. Tall ships, Navy gray hulls and the Blue Angels will headline a full roster of non-stop activities planned along Baltimore's waterfront. Landside festivals include re-enactments, a family fun-zone, live musical performances, and more. Events crescendo on September 13 and September 14 with a star-studded Star-Spangled Spectacular, including a patriotic concert, fireworks display, and special flag-raising ceremony at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine.

In other Maryland Historical Society news, Spring heralds a schedule full of fun events for adults and families, including the Bootleggers Bash: Rebooted, a gala for young professionals organized by the Young Defenders, on Saturday, February 22. On March 1, MdHS will host a tour of Winterthur's brand new exhibit highlighting the fashions of the popular PBS Masterpiece series, Downton Abbey.

For a complete list of events and to register, visit www.mdhs.org/events

About The Maryland Historical Society
Founded in 1844, The Maryland Historical Society Museum and Library occupies an entire city block in the Mount Vernon district of Baltimore. The society's mission is to "collect, preserve, and interpret the objects and materials that reflect Maryland's diverse cultural heritage." The Society is home to the original manuscript of the Star-Spangled Banner and publishes a quarterly titled "Maryland Historical Magazine." Visit www.mdhs.org.

SOURCE The Maryland Historical Society