Interesting Facts about Maryland

Sharing is caring!

These interesting facts about Maryland for kids include the U.S. Navy, the first railroad, the first cathedral in the United States, and the National Anthem.

This is part of the 50 states unit study as we travel around America, learning about the history of each state. Check out these Arkansas facts for kids below! Find some fun crafts, activities, and books for each state that will engage kids of all ages.

5 Interesting Facts about Maryland

Maryland is on the eastern coast of the United States and is known as The Old Line State. It became a state in 1788 and was the 7th state to do so. The capital is Annapolis and is where Washington D.C. is located.   

Fact One: The United States Naval Academy was founded in Annapolis  

The USNA is located in Annapolis, Maryland, and was built in 1845. It educates students for officer service in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The campus is 338 acres and is on the former grounds of Fort Stevens. 

Here are some fun crafts and activities that you can do with your kids:

• Make this sponge boat craft with your kids. 
• These sparkly cork boats are the perfect craft and activity in one! 
• Help your kids learn the alphabet with this U.S. Navy Alphabet Book. 
• This self-propelled boat is a great way to get your kids involved in STEM. 
• Make an awesome pirate boat with this fun craft idea. 

Fact Two: First railroad station in Maryland was built in Baltimore 

In 1830, builders constructed the first railroad station in Maryland, naming it the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company. It was the oldest railroad company in the United States and serviced the eastern seaboard.  

Here are some fun crafts and activities that you can do with your kids:

• Do this trains in ice activity with your kids. 
• This transport sensory bin is great for toddlers. 
• Read this thrilling story about kids on a subway in Subway. 
• Do train math with your preschooler with this fun STEM activity. 
• Make this DIY train set for the bath. 

Fact Three: The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Baltimore Basilica, completed in 1863, stands as the first cathedral constructed in the United States. Remarkably, it took 57 years to bring this architectural marvel to life.

Benjamin Henry Latrobe, recognized as the “Father of American Architecture,” led its construction, infusing his innovative design into every corner of the basilica.

Today, the Baltimore Basilica stands as a testament to Latrobe’s enduring legacy and the rich history of American architecture.

Here are some fun crafts and activities that you can do with your kids:

• This beautiful stained glass cross is a perfect craft for your kids. 
• Make Noah’s Ark with this easy activity. 
• Color these famous Gothic Churches of Europe. 
• Help your kids make this tape resist cross craft. 
• Let your kids make an easy paper prayer chain. 

Fact Four: The famous baseball player, Babe Ruth, was born in Maryland

Babe Ruth was born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1895. He was one of the greatest baseball players of all time and known as “The Bambino” and “The Sultan of Swat.” Many other famous baseball players were also born in Maryland, including Cal Ripken Jr, Billy Ripken, Lefty Grove, Frank (Home Run) Baker, Harold Baines, Al Kaline, Denny Neagle, and Jimmie Foxx. 

Here are some fun crafts and activities that you can do with your kids:

• This cotton swab painted basketball is fun for any kid to make. 
• Entertain your kids for hours with this basketball in a cup craft and activity. 
• Read The Everything Kids Basketball Book to learn all about the sport. 
• Involve your kids with math with this basketball craft. 
• Create your own basketball shoe with this fun craft.

      

 

Fact Five: America’s National Anthem was written in Maryland

In 1814, Francis Scott Key penned a poem titled “The Star-Spangled Banner” after witnessing a fierce battle during the War of 1812.

As time passed, this stirring piece gained prominence and, eventually, in 1931, it became the United States National Anthem, capturing the hearts of many Americans.

Here are some fun crafts and activities that you can do with your kids:

• Make these patriotic windsocks this year. 
• Keep your kids entertained with this 4th of July word search, bingo, tic-tac-toe, and scavenger hunt printables.  
• Read all about the National Anthem in Otto’s Tales: The National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance. 
• Print out this National Anthem postcard so your kids can memorize all the words to this patriotic song. 
• Make this super easy popsicle flag craft with your kids. 

More Maryland Resources:

Discover the diverse and delightful aspects of Maryland with our curated collection of resources!

Whether you’re a foodie eager to savor famous Maryland dishes, a parent searching for kid-friendly activities, or an educator looking for engaging worksheets, this section has something for everyone.

Dive into our guide to explore unique crafts, captivating books for children, and fascinating state facts that will enrich your understanding and enjoyment of all things Maryland.

• Famous Maryland Foods 
• Kid Friendly Things To Do In Maryland
• Maryland Crafts for Kids 
• Maryland Books for Kids
• Maryland State Fact File Worksheets  

Interesting Facts about Other States:

• Learn about Kansas
• Interesting facts about Ohio
• Alaska Interesting Information
• 5 fun facts about Minnesota

Sharing is caring!