Fort Defiance (Maryland) facts for kids

Fort Defiance was a special kind of fort built from earth and dirt. It was located on the western bank of the Elk River in northern Maryland. This fort was used from 1813 to 1815 during the War of 1812. It successfully defended against British forces on April 29, 1813. Today, a historical marker shows where the fort once stood, about 660 feet (200 meters) from the original spot.

What Was Fort Defiance?

Fort Defiance was an important military structure during the War of 1812. It was built using "earthworks," which means it was made from piles of earth and dirt. These earth walls helped protect the soldiers inside. The fort's main job was to guard the area from attacks by the British navy.

Why Was Fort Defiance Built?

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain. During this war, British ships often sailed into American waters. They sometimes attacked towns and cities along the coast. Fort Defiance was built to protect the Elk River area in Maryland. It was a key part of the American defense strategy.

The Attack of April 1813

On April 29, 1813, British forces tried to attack the area near Fort Defiance. The soldiers at Fort Defiance were ready. They fought back bravely. The fort successfully stopped the British attack. This victory showed how important Fort Defiance was in protecting Maryland during the war.

Where Can You Find It Today?

Fort Defiance was used until 1815, when the War of 1812 ended. Over time, the earthworks of the fort disappeared. Today, you won't see the original fort. Instead, there is a special historical marker. This marker helps people remember where Fort Defiance once stood. It reminds us of its role in American history.