One rainy September evening in 1814, precisely the thirteenth, smoke and light filled the sky. Victory for the United States seemed unattainable
What a terrible day to be a prisoner, eh Francis? I wouldn't have gotten myself arrested if I knew about the battle last night.. not a wink of sleep!
but Skinner, my friend, look upon the beauty of our unexpected victory, the flag among the fog! how blessed we are to witness this!
That morning Francis Scott Key, inspired by the beauty of the flag, wrote a song to the tune of a popular English song, titled "The Star-Spangled Banner". The song would go on to be sang and hummed by patriots all over the country.