Hoyer Applauds Passage of Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) today applauded the passage of the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail Act (HR 1388), designating the routes used by the British and American soldiers during the 1814 Chesapeake Campaign of the War of 1812 as a National Historic Trail. The trail extends through parts of Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia, including sites in Rep. Hoyer's district in Calvert, Charles & Prince George's Counties. The bill, which was sponsored by Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD) and co-sponsored by Rep. Hoyer, passed the House unanimously under suspension of the rules.

"The designation of this route as a National Historic Trail will serve as a reminder of the importance of liberty and Maryland's role in defending it," stated Rep. Hoyer. "I applaud Congressman Sarbanes for his work to preserve this important piece of our history, which will no doubt ensure that the hard won battles for freedom waged in our state will not be forgotten."

The sites along the proposed Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail would mark some of the most important events of the War of 1812, often referred to as America's "second war for independence." The trail, commemorating the only combined naval and land attack on the United States, begins with the June 1814 battles between the British Navy and the American Chesapeake Flotilla in St. Leonard's Creek in Calvert County, includes the British landing at Benedict in Charles County and their march through Prince George's County to Washington, and ends at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, site of the composition of our national anthem, and the ultimate defeat of the British

"We in Maryland are fortunate to have so many historical attractions in our state," said Congressman Sarbanes. "I was thrilled to work with Congressman Hoyer, who has long fought for the preservation and recognition of Maryland's historic sites, to secure passage of this legislation."

In 2004, the National Park Service issued a Feasibility Study and Environmental Impact Statement determining that the Star Spangled Banner Trail reflects significant events in American History, including the first time the nation's capital was attacked by a foreign power. The Sarbanes legislation implements the recommendations of the National Park Service's study and amends the National Trails System Act to designate the Star-Spangled Banner Trail in the States of Maryland and Virginia and the District of Columbia as a National Historic Trail. The trail designation provides opportunities for resource protection, active and passive interpretation, and public enjoyment. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) is the lead sponsor of the Senate companion legislation. The bill was previously sponsored by former Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD).

###