Maryland State House

The Maryland State House, a beacon of history and architectural splendor, stands proudly in Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland. This iconic building is not just a seat of government but a testament to the rich tapestry of American history. As the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use, the Maryland State House has witnessed pivotal moments that have shaped the nation.

The Storied History of the Maryland State House

The construction of the Maryland State House began in 1772, designed by architect Joseph Horatio Anderson in the Georgian style. However, its completion was delayed until 1797 due to the American Revolutionary War. This two-story brick structure, located within State Circle, has been the epicenter of Maryland's legislative activities for centuries. Its significance is further highlighted by its role as the temporary Capitol of the United States from 1783 to 1784, during which the Treaty of Paris was ratified, formally ending the American Revolutionary War.

The State House's most distinctive feature is its wooden dome, the largest of its kind in the United States constructed without nails. This architectural marvel, topped with a lightning rod designed by Benjamin Franklin, has become an enduring symbol of Maryland. The dome's image is even featured on the Maryland state quarter.

Exploring the Maryland State House

A visit to the Maryland State House offers a journey through time, with each room and corridor echoing the stories of yesteryears. As you step through its grand entrance, you are greeted by the imposing sight of large rectangular windows and a central portico topped with a pediment. The building's facade is a harmonious blend of elegance and strength, reflecting the ideals of the era in which it was built.

One of the most significant rooms in the State House is the Old Senate Chamber. This historic room, located to the right of the entrance, has been meticulously restored to reflect its appearance in the late 18th century. It was here, on December 23, 1783, that General George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, an act that underscored the principles of civilian control of the military. A bronze statue of Washington stands in the chamber, commemorating this momentous event.

The Old Senate Chamber is also home to the painting Washington, Lafayette & Tilghman at Yorktown by Charles Willson Peale, which depicts Washington alongside the Marquis de Lafayette and Tench Tilghman. This artwork, commissioned by the Maryland Legislature in 1783, is a poignant reminder of the collaborative efforts that secured American independence.

The Rotunda and the Maryland Federalist

The Rotunda is another highlight of the Maryland State House. This grand space, supported by Corinthian columns, is crowned by the iconic dome. The Rotunda houses the Maryland Federalist, a replica of the original ship built in 1788 to celebrate Maryland's ratification of the United States Constitution. This small but significant vessel symbolizes Maryland's crucial role in the formation of the United States.

In the summer of 2012, the original handwritten resignation letter of George Washington was displayed in the Rotunda, offering visitors a rare glimpse into a defining moment in American history. The Rotunda continues to host various exhibits, including the original Star-Spangled Banner created by Francis Scott Key, further enriching the visitor experience.

The Legislative Chambers

The Maryland State House is not just a museum of history; it remains a vibrant center of legislative activity. The current Senate Chamber, located in an annex added between 1902 and 1906, is a striking blend of tradition and modernity. The room is adorned with a red carpet featuring the Maryland state seal, and its walls are lined with Ionic columns and black and rust-colored marble, the official colors of Maryland. Statues of notable Marylanders, including John Hanson and Charles Carroll, flank the podium, while portraits of the state's signers of the Declaration of Independence hang on the walls.

The House of Delegates Chamber, also located in the annex, mirrors the grandeur of the Senate Chamber. This room features a navy blue carpet with olive and diamond patterns, and its walls are similarly clad in black and rust marble. The Speaker's podium is framed by a broken pediment holding a clock, and portraits of former Speakers of the House add to the chamber's historical ambiance.

Lawyers Mall and the Gardens

Adjacent to the Maryland State House is Lawyers Mall, an open space that serves as a focal point for public gatherings and First Amendment activities. This area is home to statues of Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, and Donald Gaines Murray, the first African American admitted to the University of Maryland School of Law. These monuments celebrate the progress and achievements of civil rights in Maryland.

Until 2017, the grounds also featured a statue of Roger B. Taney, a Marylander who served as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. However, due to his controversial support of slavery and the Dred Scott decision, the statue was removed in response to public outcry and the evolving understanding of his legacy. In its place, statues of abolitionists Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass are planned, reflecting Maryland's ongoing commitment to honoring its diverse history.

Conclusion

The Maryland State House is more than just a building; it is a living monument to the state's and the nation's history. From its role in the early days of American independence to its continued function as the seat of Maryland's government, the State House stands as a testament to the enduring principles of democracy and civic responsibility. A visit to this historic site offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the past and witness the unfolding story of Maryland and the United States.