Home of the Brave: The War of 1812 in Art, Story and Song

The bicentennial of the declaration of the War of 1812 was the inspiration to tell the story of the naval aspect of the war through an engaging and thought-provoking exhibit. Discover an important part of our nation's heritage at Independence Seaport Museum exhibition "Home of the Brave: The War of 1812 in Art, Story and Song."

Despite sometimes being referred to as "America's forgotten war", the War of 1812 was a pivotal moment in our Nation's history. In fact, a crucial battle during the war inspired… Show more Francis Scott Key to write a poem "The Star Spangled Banner" which would later be adopted as our National Anthem.

In "Home of the Brave," the National Anthem serves as a catalyst for examination of the War of 1812, introducing themes of heroism, patriotism and sacrifice that embodied the war, while also exploring the social and political context of the conflict.

Written by Francis Scott Key after being held prisoner on a ship during the naval bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, "The Star-Spangled Banner" touches Americans in a way that our other patriotic music does not. Not only do we associate it with some of life's most affecting moments - from Presidential inaugurations to Olympic victories to military funerals - we also recognize on some level that it tells a story of fear and hope and pride that mirrors the American experience.

Comprised of objects from the collection of Independence Seaport Museum, as well as loans from the Dietrich American Foundation and other private collectors, the exhibition explores the naval aspect of the War of 1812 through the lenses of art, material and popular culture, as well as first-hand accounts of participants and on-lookers.

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