Thompson, Blanchard, Edelmann, Kraemer, Sparenberg, & Serbe:Information about William H. Thompson

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William H. Thompson (d. date unknown)

William H. Thompson was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and died date unknown. He married Elizabeth Euhler, daughter of Euler.

Notes for William H. Thompson:
The importance of Whetstone Point for the defense of Baltimore became apparent when the Revolutionary War began. Maryland expropriated the British Principio iron works on Whetstone Point and used these facilities to aid the American war effort. In 1775, preparations began to fortify the area. A water battery of 18 guns was placed on Whetstone Point. A chain was stretched across the neck of the harbor, supported by 21 sunken schooners. An air furnace was also built near the batteries to provide munitions. When the Revolutionary War ended, the Free State confiscated 195 acres of land belonging to the company and sold the land at auction.

These fortifications remained under Maryland control until 1793, when Congress passed a resolution which stated: "the United States may think it necessary to erect a fort, arsenal, or other military works or buildings on Whetstone Point." However, Congress did not see fit to provide adequate funds; it was the citizens of Baltimore who made up the deficiency.

Built strategically at the mouth of the Baltimore Harbor, Fort McHenry earned its place in history during the final months of the War of 1812. In September 1814, the British had turned their sights toward Baltimore after sacking and burning Washington. The British were intent on punishing Baltimore because it was home port for a large number of privateers--privately owned, armed ships sailing under government commissions--which had been harassing British shipping throughout the "Second War for Independence." Baltimoreans did not stand idly by in the face of this threat. They armed themselves and built heavy defenses around the city; Fort McHenry was a crucial element in this defense. British strategy called for their ships to blast their way past Fort McHenry. As all proud Baltimoreans know, the British failed. At the end of the 25-hour bombardment, Francis Scott Key wrote the memorable poem which later became the national anthem. The fort still proudly stands on Locust Point, an attraction for visitors from across the globe and a symbol of the American spirit.

Children of William H. Thompson and Elizabeth Euhler are:

+William H. Thompson, b. August 15, 1848, Baltimore, Maryland, d. March 04, 1927, Baltimore, Maryland.