At the site where the residence of Dr. William Beanes once stood, General Ross made his headquarters on August 22 and 23, 1814, during his march to Bladensburg and Washington. There Dr. Beanes was made a prisoner for instigating the arrest of marauders from the British Army. To secure his release, Francis Scott Key visited the British fleet and, being detained during the bombardment of Fort McHenry, was inspired by its valiant defense to write the American National Anthem.