Privateer Day

Welcome to Baltimore, 1814! 

Described as a "nest of pirates" Baltimore was home to many privateers during the War of 1812. Join us on June 19th as we explore the history of privateers who sought fame and fortune on the high seas aboard Baltimore-built topsail schooners. Explore the payoffs and pitfalls of privateering, and learn about the fighting sailors whose skills in handling canvas and cutlass led to the capture of at least 1,200 British merchant ships during the war. Will you capture many prizes or be caught by the British Navy? Find out and learn more about how privateering operated and brought the economy of England to its knees during the War of 1812. 

Program Schedule

9:00 a.m. Crew Registration & Privateer Experience

"The Payoffs and Pitfalls of Privateering"

Discover how small, armed American merchant vessels challenged the world's greatest navy during the War of 1812 with great success. With British blockades strangling American trade, the United States issued Letters of Marque, authorizing private citizens to arm their vessels and capture British merchant ships.

Experience the process of becoming a privateer and learn about the risks, rewards, and adventures that came with sailing under a Letter of Marque.

Location: Star Fort

10:00 a.m. Morning Flag Change

2:00 p.m. Naval Weapons Demonstration

Privateering wasn't always decided by cannon fire alone. While ship-to-ship combat often began with cannons and carronades, many engagements ended with boarding actions where sailors fought hand-to-hand.

Watch a demonstration featuring the weapons commonly carried by American privateers, including cutlasses, boarding pikes, pistols, muskets, and naval artillery.

Location: Water Battery

3:00 p.m.  All-Ages Cutlass Drill "Cut One! Cut Two! Parry! Thrust!"

Report to the Bosun for cutlass instruction! Participants of all ages can learn the basic movements used by sailors during the Age of Fighting Sail using safe wooden training cutlasses. Whether you're a young recruit or an old salt, everyone is welcome to join the crew.

Location: Star Fort

5:00 p.m. Evening Flag Change

Fee Information

Passes required for entry to star fort. Additional fee information available at: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/planyourvisit/fees.htm