10 fun and interesting Maryland facts

1. Maryland's Naval Academy is world-renowned

Founded on October 10, 1845, the United States Naval Academy in Maryland is renowned across the globe as Annapolis. Located in the state's capital city, the academy has been training officers for the United States Navy and Marine Corps for over 175 years. It is the second oldest of the United States' five service academies and is considered one of the most prestigious military institutions in the world.

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2. Maryland's First Railroad Station

In 1830, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company established the first railroad station in Baltimore, Maryland, marking a major milestone in the history of transportation. This station was the first of its kind in the United States, and it revolutionized the way people traveled and shipped goods. The station was the starting point for the first 13 miles of track, and it eventually grew to become the longest railroad in the country. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company is still in operation today, and it continues to be an important part of the transportation infrastructure in Maryland.

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3. University of The Pioneering School of Dentistry

The University of Maryland is a pioneer in the field of dentistry, as it was the first dental school to open in the United States. Established in 1840, the school has been providing quality education in the field of dentistry for over 180 years. It is one of the oldest dental schools in the country and has been a leader in the advancement of dental science and technology. The school has produced many renowned dentists who have made significant contributions to the field of dentistry.

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4. Francis Scott Key: Author of US Anthem

Maryland is the birthplace of Francis Scott Key, the author of the United States' National Anthem. Born on September 14, 1814, Key was a lawyer, poet, and amateur historian who wrote the lyrics to the anthem during the War of 1812. His poem, originally titled "The Defence of Fort M'Henry", was set to the tune of a popular British song and was later adopted as the National Anthem of the United States.

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5. Maryland Makes History by Passing Workmen's Compensation Laws

In 1902, Maryland made history by becoming the first state to pass Workmen's Compensation Laws, a groundbreaking move that provided financial protection for workers who were injured on the job. This was a major step forward in the fight for workers' rights, as it ensured that employees would be compensated for their injuries, regardless of who was at fault. The laws also provided a safety net for workers who were unable to work due to their injuries, allowing them to receive a portion of their wages while they recovered. This was a major victory for workers in Maryland and set a precedent for other states to follow.

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6. It's Illegal to Attend the Movies with a Lion

In Maryland, it is illegal to attend the movies with a lion - a ridiculous law that is still in effect as of 2013. This law is a reminder of the importance of respecting the boundaries between humans and wild animals, and serves as a reminder of the potential danger of bringing a wild animal into a public space.

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7. Antique Capital of Maryland - New Market

New Market, Maryland is known as the antique capital of the state, boasting a wide variety of antique stores and flea markets. With its quaint downtown area and historic buildings, New Market is a popular destination for antique hunters and collectors. The town is home to a variety of antique stores, ranging from small, family-owned shops to larger, more established stores. Additionally, the town hosts several flea markets throughout the year, offering a unique shopping experience for visitors. Whether you're looking for a rare find or just browsing, New Market is the perfect place to explore the world of antiques.

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8. Maryland is birthplace of the Methodist Church of America

Maryland is the birthplace of the Methodist Church of America, which was officially organized in 1784. This influential religious denomination has since spread across the United States and beyond, and has become one of the largest Protestant denominations in the world. The first Methodist Church in Maryland was founded in 1773 in the city of Baltimore, and the first conference of the Methodist Church of America was held in 1784 in the city of Baltimore. This event marked the official organization of the Methodist Church of America, and it has since become an integral part of the history and culture of Maryland.

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9. Maryland Cedes Land, Forms DC

Maryland made a bold decision in the late 1700s to cede a portion of their land to the federal government in order to form the nation's capital, Washington DC. This act of selflessness was done with the belief that it was the best move for both the state of Maryland and the United States of America. Maryland's contribution of land was essential in the formation of the nation's capital, and the state's citizens have been proud of their decision ever since.

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10. Maryland's Oldest Lighthouse: Concord Point

The Concord Point Lighthouse in Havre de Grace, Maryland, is the oldest continuously operated lighthouse in the United States. This historic beacon has been drawing visitors from near and far for centuries, and continues to be a popular tourist destination year-round. Built in 1827, the lighthouse stands at a height of 35 feet and is equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, which was installed in 1857. Its beacon can be seen up to eight miles away, and is a reminder of the rich maritime history of Maryland.