Military
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Northampton Iron Furnace, operating from 1761 to about 1830 approximately a mile north of here as part of the prosperous Hampton estate, played a significant role in the War of 1812. The foundry’s workforce was made up primarily of enslaved African Americans who produced iron, cannons, shot, and camp equipment for the war effort. Charles Carnan Ridgely, ironmaster and owner of the estate, also contributed funds and other supplies for Baltimore’s defense in 1814. In 1798, the Baltimore Federal Gazette said, “Mr. Ridgely’s iron being in high estimation in quality than other in the state.” Two unexploded British shells from the bombardment of Fort McHenry on September 13-14, 1814, are visible at the south portico of Hampton Mansion and were likely given to Charles Carnan Ridgely as a token of esteem.
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Hampton, Maryland · United States
