Attraction Guide: Maryland State House, Annapolis, United States

Maryland State House Guide

Witness History in Action: The Maryland State House Guide

The Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use in the United States, is a must-see for anyone visiting Annapolis. This iconic building, topped by its distinctive wooden dome, stands as a symbol of Maryland's rich history and its enduring commitment to democracy. Explore its hallowed halls, witness the workings of state government, and learn about the pivotal events that have shaped the state and the nation. Construction of the Maryland State House began in 1772 and was completed in 1779. It served as the nation's capitol from November 1783 to August 1784, during which time the Treaty of Paris, formally ending the American Revolutionary War, was ratified in its Old Senate Chamber. The building has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, but its original Georgian architectural style has been carefully preserved. The dome, constructed without nails, is a remarkable feat of engineering and a defining feature of the Annapolis skyline. Visitors can take self-guided or guided tours of the Maryland State House to learn about its history, architecture, and the workings of state government. Highlights include the Old Senate Chamber, where George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, and the current Senate and House of Delegates chambers. While the State House itself doesn't have a culinary tradition, its central location in Annapolis provides easy access to a wide array of restaurants and eateries offering Maryland specialties like crab cakes, oyster stew, and Smith Island Cake.