Welcome to Maryland

Maryland offers the broadest range of recreational, intellectual and cultural activities in one of the most convenient areas of the United States.

In short, the breadth of America can be experienced within a 200-mile Maryland trip. The term "variety" captures the essence of our special state, from Maryland’s geography to its economy to its distinct communities. It is also on the leading edge of economic and technological innovation.

For more information, see our Resources/Local Information section for links other sites.


Maryland Fun Facts

Maryland was the 7th state in the USA; it became a state on April 28, 1788.
State AbbreviationMD



State CapitalAnnapolis
Largest CityBaltimore
Area12,407 square miles [Maryland is the 42nd biggest state in the USA]
Population5,296,486 (as of 2000) [Maryland is the 19th most populous state in the USA]
Major Industriesfarming (corn, soybeans, tobacco, poultry and dairy products), mining (coal), steel products, communications equipment, fishing (crabs and oysters), government services
Major RiversPotomac River, Patapsco River, Patuxent River, Susquehanna River
Major LakesLake Oakland, Deep Creek Lake, Prettyboy Reservoir, Loch Raven Reservoir
Highest PointBackbone Mountain - 3,360 feet (1,024 m) above sea level
Bordering StatesDelaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia[and Washington, District of Columbia]
Bordering Bodies of WaterChesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean
Origin of the Name MarylandMaryland was named to honor the Queen consort Henrietta Maria (1609-1669), the wife of Britain’s King Charles I
State NicknameOld Line State
State Motto"Fatti Maschii, Parole Femine" Manly Deeds, Womanly Words
State SongMaryland, My Maryland
Dinosaur Fossils Found in MarylandAstrodon, Pleurocoelus, Priconodon
Maryland State Symbols and Emblems: State FlagThe state flag of Maryland was officially adopted in 1904. It is the only US state flag based on British heraldry (the coats of arms of noble families). The flag’s design was based on the coat of arms adopted by George Calvert, the first Lord Baltimore. The alternating yellow and black are from Lord Calvert’s family shield; the red and white design is either from Calvert’s maternal family, the Crosslands, or his wife’s family, the Mynnes.