About Maryland Day
Every year on March 25th, Marylanders celebrate Maryland Day, a holiday that honors the founding of the Maryland colony in 1634. This special day commemorates the arrival of English settlers who established one of the original Thirteen Colonies and laid the foundation for the state's rich history and cultural heritage.
The History Behind Maryland Day
Maryland Day marks the landing of approximately 140 European settlers on St. Clement’s Island in the Potomac River. These settlers, led by Leonard Calvert, arrived aboard two ships, the Ark and the Dove, after a long journey from England. Their mission was to establish a new colony under the charter granted to Cecil Calvert, the Second Lord Baltimore, by King Charles I. Maryland was envisioned as a haven for religious tolerance, particularly for English Catholics who faced persecution in Protestant England.
On March 25, 1634, the settlers held a ceremony to claim the land for England and celebrated a Catholic Mass, believed to be one of the first in the English-speaking colonies of North America. This moment marked the official founding of the colony of Maryland.
The Evolution of Maryland Day
Maryland Day was officially recognized as a state holiday in 1903 when the Maryland General Assembly designated it as a day of historical remembrance. Schools and institutions across the state use this occasion to teach about Maryland’s early history, its role in the American Revolution, and its contributions to the nation.
The General Assembly later declared it a legal holiday in 1916.
How Marylanders Celebrate
Maryland Day is an opportunity for residents to connect with their state’s past through various activities and events. Many historical sites, museums, and parks hold special programs, reenactments, and educational tours. Key locations for celebrations include:
St. Clement’s Island State Park – The site of the settlers’ landing offers visitors a chance to explore Maryland’s colonial history.
Historic St. Mary’s City – The former colonial capital hosts interactive exhibits and living history demonstrations.
Annapolis – The state capital features parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and historical reenactments.
Schools also participate in Maryland Day by organizing history projects, art contests, and discussions about the state's role in shaping the United States.
Why Maryland Day Matters
Maryland Day is more than just a commemoration of a historical event—it’s a celebration of the state’s identity, diversity, and legacy. The colony of Maryland was one of the earliest examples of religious freedom in America, setting a precedent for the First Amendment rights that later defined the nation. By observing Maryland Day, residents honor the courage of the early settlers, the values of tolerance and perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the Old Line State.
Whether through visiting historic landmarks, attending educational events, or simply reflecting on Maryland’s unique heritage, Maryland Day serves as a reminder of the state’s significant role in American history. So on March 25th, take a moment to celebrate Maryland and the legacy of those who helped shape it into what it is today.
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