When it comes to history, the Old Line State is filled to the brim. From historic locations of bloody battles to the grounds that Maryland was founded on, there is no shortage of past treasures that made Maryland what it is today. If you're a history buff, these 13 historical landmarks in Maryland are a must-visit! Which ones will be added to your bucket list?
1. Washington Monument State Park, Boonsboro
Atop South Mountain, you'll find the Washington Monument. This rustic stone tower was built in 1827 in honor of the memory of George Washington.
2. Fort McHenry, Baltimore
This historic spot known as Fort McHenry played a role in the war of 1812, defending against an attack by the British Navy. It was continuously used years after and even inspired the Star Spangled Banner.
3. Antietam National Battlefield, Sharpsburg
23,000 soldiers were killed here during the battle of Antietam. The park includes bloody lane, Dunker Church, and the pictured Burnside Bridge. The Antietam National Battlefield still stands as a reminder of this dark time in American history.
4. Point Lookout State Park, Scotland
You can find Point Lookout State Park at the southern tip of St. Mary's County. During the Civil War, this camp imprisoned over 50,000 Confederate Soldiers.
Explore this Maryland state park in beautiful 4K:
5. Edgar Allen Poe House & Museum, Baltimore
This house at 203 Amity Street doesn't look like much, but it is presumably the place where Edgar Allen Poe penned some of his work. There is also a small museum with a number of antique pieces related to the Poe family.
6. Casselman River Bridge State Park, Grantsville
Casselman Bridge was once a part of the National Road from 1813 to 1933. Today it stands as tribute to the early history of transportation in Maryland.
Explore this stunningly beautiful park in Maryland firsthand:
7. Fort Frederick, Big Pool
During the French and Indian War, Fort Frederick stood as Maryland's defense. This spot holds artillery firings and 18th-century markets for a trip back in time.
8. Maryland State House, Annapolis
Not only is this Maryland's capital, but it is also the oldest state capital in continuous legislative use in America. Dating back to 1772, that's quite an impressive feat! Visit the Maryland State House and learn all about its intriguing history.
9. St. Mary's City Historic District
This town was Maryland's first colonial settlement. You can now visit this restored historic area to learn about colonial times. Visit the official St. Mary's City Historic District website for more backstory on this amazing place.
10. Fort Washington Park, Fort Washington
For several decades Fort Washington was the only defensive fort protecting Washington D.C. You can now visit the fort and surrounding scenic places, as it's been transformed into a tranquil park.
11. United States Naval Academy, Annapolis
Established in 1845, this entire campus is a National Registered Landmark, training our country's finest in our very own Naptown. Learn more on the official United States Naval Academy website.
12. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal
Spanning 184 miles long, the C & O Canal operated from 1831 until 1924. Today, it's a popular spot for jogging and biking. Plus, it's gorgeous!
13. St. Clements Island, Coltons Point
This uninhabited island known as St. Clements Island on the Potomac River was the landing site of Maryland's very first colonists. This is quite literally the birthplace of the state.
Check out a breathtaking birds-eye view of the island in this awesome video:
All lovers of local history should be sure to check out these locations. For without some of these historic spots, Maryland wouldn't be what it is today! Which ones are the most interesting to you? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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