By Hannah Johnson
It’s Friday, so let’s end the week on a fun note. I’ve got just the perfect fun fact: Today in 1634, the first settlers landed in what is now the state of Maryland.
The settlement of St. Mary’s (now St. Mary’s City) was founded by settlers escaping religious persecution in England. They were led by Leonard Calvert (as in Calvert Street in Baltimore and Calvert County), the second son of Lord Baltimore (you’re sensing a naming theme, right?).
St. Mary’s went on to become the first capital of Maryland and a reconstruction of the original State House (of 1676) still resides on its original site in the city.
The settlers were met by Piscatawy Indians, the local native tribe who became trading partners and allies, at least for a while. They coexisted peacefully for a number of years, but, as you could probably foresee, the relationship turned against the Native population as the colony grew stronger—as it did across much of the early U.S. colonies, unfortunately.
If you’re looking for a fun weekend trip or have a budding history buff in the family, try the first colony of Maryland. Happy 382nd anniversary to St. Mary’s!
