Genealogical Gems

Today, in Maryland, is Defenders Day. It is a legal holiday in which Maryland residents recall the day in which their ancestors defended the City of Baltimore on 12 September 1814 from the Brits in the War of 1812. The events gave birth to our national anthem as well. This weekend commemorates the 200th anniversary of "The Star Spangled Banner." On 24 August 2014, the Maryland Historical Society and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine unfurled the Star-Spangled Banner Replica at President's Park on the White House Ellipse, located near 15th and E Streets, in Washington, DC.  It was two hundred years to the day that the British burned the White House. During the War of 1812, British troops captured Washington, DC and burned the White House. This caused President James Madison to flee. Just three weeks later, the British attacked the Baltimore. The British fired more than a thousand rockets and "bombs" on Fort McHenry but Balti...

May is National Preservation Month and the theme this year is "Discover America's Hidden Gems". This month go visit your local historical landmarks. Each landmark has its own personal story to tell in relation to the history of your local area. The Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado tells a story of the Ancient Pueblo people. The Concord Point Lighthouse in Havre de Grace, Maryland tells a maritime story. Each story is a chapter in our American history and heritage. Click HERE to read the full article as it appeared on Knoji.