John Reznikoff Helps History Detectives Untangle a Star-Spangled Banner Investigation
In this 14:07 video clip which aired as part of the PBS series History Detectives, John Reznikoff helps host Elyse Luray examine a handwritten manuscript entitled “The Star-Spangled Banner” that had been stored in a desk for 60 years in Eugene, Oregon. The manuscript came from Arnold J. Gantvoort, who was part of a committee to create an official, standardized version of the National Anthem. Appraisers at the PBS series Antiques Roadshow valued the music at $10,000-$15,000. With John’s help, Luray determines what role, if any, the manuscript played in the creation of our national anthem, leading also to an investigation of the Fort McHenry memorial site.