Try 30 days of free premium.

Baltimore to Fort Mchenry

Michael Portillo continues his American rail journey from Philadelphia to Jamestown. In Baltimore, home of the first railroad in the United States - the Baltimore and Ohio - he discovers how the first American steam engine, the Tom Thumb, owed much to pioneering British technology. He investigates race relations in the troubled city, taking a drive downtown with a former drug dealer, now a teacher.

On the city's beautiful east coast, Michael discovers the impressive star-shaped Fort McHenry and learns how the Star-Spangled Banner national anthem was born. Medics at the city's Johns Hopkins Hospital show Michael how their institution has grown from its 19th-century foundation by the railroad magnate into a world-leading centre for healthcare. And at the city's Lexington Market, Michael learns what gives a Maryland crab cake the edge.

Try 30 days of free premium.

Cast Appearances

View full appearance list »

Episode Discussion

No comments yet. Be the first!

Login to leave a comment on this episode.
Try 30 days of free premium.