The Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship early Tuesday, was named after the American lawyer who wrote the lyrics of the national anthem. When the bridge opened, The New York Times reported that construction costs had totaled $141 million, which is roughly $735 million in today’s dollars. More than 12.4 million passenger and commercial vehicles crossed the bridge in 2023, according to a Maryland state government report. Francis Scott Key was believed to be near the site of the future bridge in 1814 when he observed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry, where he served as quartermaster, during the War of 1812. After the bridge opened to the public, parts of it underwent renovation several times, including a $14 million project in 1986 to repair damage, improve safety and restore the bridge’s appearance.

---

Persons: Francis Scott Key Organizations: The New York Times Locations: Baltimore, Maryland, Patapsco, Fort McHenry, Fort M’Henry, British