This fascinating talk will focus on Francis Scott Key and will include his family and early years, the War of 1812 and the Dr. Beanes rescue mission, the Star-Spangled Banner, religion, politics (and major cases), and his views on slavery.

About the Presenter

Lou Giles retired in 2012 as a senior executive in the Defense Department. He presently serves as the President of the Society of the War of 1812 in the State of Maryland, a patriotic organization limited to descendants of soldiers who fought in the War of 1812. He is also a member of the Boards of Directors and counsel to the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House in Baltimore. Mr. Giles also volunteers at the Maryland State Archives in Annapolis and as a docent at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore.