One of the smallest states in the U.S., Maryland was named after the wife of England’s King Charles I, Henrietta Maria.
Following are few quick facts about Maryland:
- State capital – Annapolis
- State motto of Massachusetts – Fatti maschii, parole femine (“Manly deeds, Womanly words”)
- State song – “Maryland My Maryland”
- Nick names – Old Line State
- State insect – Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly
- State flower – Black-Eyed Susan
- State bird – Baltimore Oriole
- State fish – Rockfish
- State dog – Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- State colors – red, white, black, and gold
- State tree – White Oak (Quercus alba)
- State sport – Jousting
“Marylander” is how a resident of Maryland is called. Free State, Cockade State, Oyster State and Monumental State are other nick names for Maryland.
Maryland is home to America’s very first dental school and the first school, King Williams School which was opened in 1696. The first dental school was opened at the University of Maryland.
Maryland’s capital, Annapolis, is the world’s sailing capital. It is where the United States Naval Academy was founded in 1845. The city receives more than 4 million visitors every year. Annapolis was once the capital of the U.S.
Maryland is well known for its seafood production. The state is America’s largest producer of blue crabs and soft clams. Major industries of the state include agriculture, fishing, mining, communications equipment and steel products.
Maryland’s majestic mountains are perfect for hiking and skiing. You can do a lot more in Maryland. The state’s waterways are popular among those who love sailing and paddling. Byroads of the state are perfect for road trips. The state’s small and big towns offer something new to do for everyone who visits the state.
Following are some of Maryland’s must-see attractions popular among Marylanders and visitors:
- Fort McHenry National Monument
- Assateague Island National Park Seashore
- Harpers Ferry and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Parks
- Antietam National Battlefield
- National Aquarium
- USS Constellation
- Maryland Science Center at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
- Historic Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum at St. Leonard
- U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis
- Goddard Space Flight Center at Greenbelt
- Ocean City beach resort
- Catoctin Mountain
- Fort Frederick
Do you live in Maryland? Let us know what you like and know about Maryland in the comment section below or by visiting our Facebook and Twitter pages!