Finding Francis Scott Key: Commemorative Marker in Fairfax County

Two summers ago, when I canvassed the streets of Old Town looking for commemorative markers, the best aspect of the hunt was the joy of discovery.   I rekindled some of those strong emotions yesterday morning.    On an errand, I cam to a stop at the dangerous intersection of Southgate and S. Kings Highway near Route 1 in Alexandria.   

For once, all quiet on the front, so I glanced over at the Mount Comfort Cemetery.    Spotting a square metal object affixed to the 10-foot high brick entrance way, my historical plaque radar went on high alert.  

Is that a marker at the entrance?   Why have I not seen it before?  What does it cover?    Probably the cemetery genius.

How about sheet music for the “Star Spangled Banner?”