What does a soldier's writings reveal about living conditions at Fort McHenry during the Civil War? Objective Students will use primary source documents to understand the activities and living conditions of soldiers garrisoned at Fort McHenry during the Civil War. Background History of Fort McHenry (Adapted from Ft. McHenry Website https://www.nps.gov/fomc/historyculture/index.htm ) Fort McHenry's history began in 1776 during the Revolutionary War. The people of Baltimore feared an attack by the British, and wanted to build a fort for protection. Anticipating an attack at any time, a fort of e Duration: 60 Minutes.