10 Quirky Facts About Maryland That Sound Made Up, But Are 100% Accurate
×
Jamie Alvarenga
Author
Maryland is full of surprises, especially when it comes to these fun facts. From the state’s history to our small towns, there’s always more to learn. Check out this list of fun facts about Maryland and see how many are new to you!
1. To get to Maryland's highest point, you have to start in West Virginia.
The trail to Maryland's highest point, known as Hoye-Crest, starts in Silver Lake, WV. The trail is just under a mile to the top, and along the way, you'll cross back into Maryland.
2. Maryland's official state sport? Jousting!
Jousting become the official state sport in 1962.
Advertisement
3. The USS Constellation at Baltimore's Inner Harbor isn't just a pretty ship. It was active for 100 years and served in military conflicts.
This vibrant vessel was commissioned all the way back in 1855, and also played an important role in ending foreign slave trade.
Advertisement
4. Maryland's town of Havre de Grace is known as the decoy capital of the world.
There's even a decoy museum in town where you'll find hundreds of hand-carved ducks, geese, and more.
5. Sure, the Maryland flag is a US state flag, but it's actually based on British heraldry.
It's actually the ONLY state flag to be based on English heraldry.
Related Stories
Most People Don't Know These 14 Movies Were Filmed In Maryland
One Of The Biggest Names In Sports Was Born In One Of The Smallest Neighborhoods In Maryland
Some People Don’t Know That Maryland Was The First To Do These 7 Things
6. Maryland is the birthplace of the infamous Ouija Board.
Elijah Wood, a Baltimorean, created the first Ouija Board in the early 1890s. You can now find Wood's one-of-a-kind gravestone at Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore.
7. The country's most patriotic song, the National Anthem, was written in Baltimore.
Marylander Francis Scott Key wrote the National Anthem, also known as The Star Spangled Banner. It was inspired during the War of 1812.
8. Even though National Bohemian is an iconic beer in Maryland, it hasn't been brewed in the state since 1996.
This brand of beer is currently being made in Albany, Georgia and Trenton, Ohio.
Advertisement
9. There's a town in Maryland called Chevy Chase, but no, it's not named after the actor.
The name origins of Chevy Chase, Maryland actually date back to the 1800s.
10. The small town of Brookeville was the US Capital for one day.
In 1814, President James Madison stayed in Brookeville for one night, while also conducting business and sending dispatches. Because of this, Brookeville was named the United States Capital for a day.
Did you know these fun facts about Maryland? What other fun facts would you add to the list? Feel free to share in the comments! If you’re proud to live in Maryland, be sure to check out this unique collection of apparel from Wear Your Roots.
Looking for more Maryland fun? Take a look at this video outlining the longest hiking trail in Maryland:
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.