201 W. Monument St.
410-685-3750
www.mdhs.org

HOURS:
Tuesday thru Friday 10-5pm
First Thursday of every month open until 8pm
Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 11-5pm

ADMISSION:
$4.00 public, $3.00 senior citizens

The best $4.00 you could possibly spend for an educational look at Maryland’s heritage. The MHS is open to the public and specializes in genealogy; rare artifacts and documents of the regions history and general overviews of colonial American history and art. For instance, it is the home of the original manuscript of "The Star Spangled Banner," as well as many other artifacts such as paintings, furniture, textiles and folk art from some of Maryland’s most famous inhabitants.

But along with celebrating Maryland’s earliest days, the MHS also unveils the deeper, darker side of Maryland’s past. For example, several genuine artifacts bring to life Maryland’s unfortunate slave history, including the first depiction of a slave in American portraiture, copies of reward letters for runaway slaves, and a disturbing look at a KKK hood still sporting the sweat stains. Also shown are three surviving Revolutionary War officer’s uniforms, and some graphic photos depicting Civil War bloodshed in Maryland.

This museum is great for all ages, providing a hands-on gallery for children, a library and a gift shop as well. The MHS is located in the historic Mount Vernon Cultural District, a 15-minute walk north from the Inner Harbor. In close proximity of the MHS is Antique Row, a string of unique antic shops; Mount Vernon Place, upon which stands the towering Washington Monument – visible from the MHS; Walters Art Gallery, with over 30,00 works of art; and numerous restaurants.

The Historical Society is best reached by walking or private vehicle from the Inner Harbor; however, it is located just off of Howard St., and therefore not too far from an M.T.A. Light Rail stop. If possible, plan to take a few hours out of the day to visit the MHS and the surrounding attractions too, it makes for a great tour.