Maryland is small, but it’s doing a lot—geographically, historically, and culturally. From colonial experiments to bizarre borders and food loyalty that runs deep, the state constantly punches above its weight. Here are 11 completely legit Maryland facts that sound fake—even to lifelong Marylanders.
1. Maryland Has One of the Strangest State Shapes in the U.S.
Maryland’s borders look like someone gave up halfway through drawing them.
A narrow panhandle, water-heavy edges, and random angles make it instantly recognizable. Cartographers had a day.
2. Maryland Was Founded as a Religious Safe Haven
Maryland was established as a refuge for Catholics in a time when they were persecuted in England.
Religious tolerance was literally built into the colony. That was radical for the 1600s.
3. The Star-Spangled Banner Was Written in Maryland
Francis Scott Key wrote the U.S. national anthem after witnessing the Battle of Fort McHenry in Baltimore…