North Point State Battlefield Opens to Public

Gearing up for Sept. celebration

Reclaimed from a once-vacant lot in an urbanized section of Dundalk, North Point State Battlefield is now open to the public. The park preserves nine acres of open land which represent the last undeveloped parcel from the historic battle site.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, the park has been transformed into a historical landmark with two gravel loop trails that lead to interpretive signs and a 17-car parking lot. Eco-friendly features include wetlands and boardwalks, permeable parking and trail surfaces, and “grow not mow” wildflower meadows, creating a green oasis in an urban setting.

On Sept. 12, 1814, the Maryland Militia deployed across this field and fought the invading British regulars from behind a fenceline along its eastern edge. American Brigadier General Stricker, the hero of North Point, commanded his forces from within the borders of the new park.

“The Battle of North Point became a turning point in the War of 1812,” said State Parks Superintendent Nita Settina. “From that day to this, the anniversary of the battle has been celebrated as Defender’s Day, a Maryland State Holiday honoring those who risked their lives in America’s defense during our ‘Second War of Independence.’”

The opening of the battlefield is the latest in a series of major improvements at North Point State Park. Last September, the park celebrated the reopening of the 1,000-foot Crystal Pier at the former Bay Shore Amusement Park after a $1.3 million dollar stabilization and rehabilitation project.

That same month, the park debuted new exhibits in the Takos Visitor Center developed with the support of the National Park Service. Visitors to the center can learn more about the Battle of North Point, the rise and fall of the Bay Shore Amusement Park (1906-1947) and other aspects of North Point’s rich history through displays, artifacts and interactive media.

North Point State Battlefield Park is at the intersection of North Point and Trappe roads in Dundalk. North Point State Park’s main day use area, which includes the Crystal Pier and the Takos Visitor Center exhibits, is at 8400 North Point Road in Edgemere.