Maryland State House – Annapolis, MD

Maryland State House: A National Historic Landmark

Historic Significance and Architecture

The Maryland State House, located in the heart of historic Annapolis, is a building of immense national significance. It holds the distinction of being the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use in the United States. Construction began in 1772 under the direction of architect Joseph Horatio Anderson and was completed in 1779. The building is instantly recognizable by its massive wooden dome, the largest of its kind in the United States constructed without nails, which was designed by Joseph Clark and completed in 1794. This architectural masterpiece serves not only as a working government building but also as a museum of American history.

From November 1783 to August 1784, the Maryland State House served as the capitol of the United States. It was within the Old Senate Chamber that two of the most pivotal events in the nation’s early history occurred: General George Washington resigned his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army on December 23, 1783, establishing the precedent of civilian control over the military, and the Continental Congress ratified the Treaty of Paris on January 14, 1784, officially ending the Revolutionary War. Today, the Old Senate Chamber has been meticulously restored to its 18th-century appearance, allowing visitors to step back in time.

Seat of Government

As the active seat of Maryland’s government, the State House houses the chambers of the Maryland General Assembly, which consists of the State Senate and the House of Delegates. The General Assembly convenes here annually for a 90-day legislative session beginning in January. The building also contains the offices of the Governor and the Lieutenant Governor. Unlike many other capitols, the Maryland State House is unique in that the Governor’s office is located in the original 18th-century section of the building.

Security and Visitor Information

Given its status as a functioning government facility housing top state officials, security at the Maryland State House is strict. All visitors must enter through the security checkpoint located at the ground-level entrance near Lawyers Mall. Visitors are required to present a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) and pass through metal detectors. Bags and purses are subject to search.

• Tours: The State House is open to the public daily. Self-guided tour information is available, and visitors can explore the Old Senate Chamber, the Old House of Delegates Chamber, and various exhibits detailing the building’s history.
• Exhibits: The building features numerous historical artifacts, including the original handwritten speech Washington gave upon his resignation. The grounds include statues of Thurgood Marshall and Roger B. Taney (though the latter has been a subject of historical contextualization).

A Living Symbol of Democracy

The Maryland State House stands as a powerful symbol of the state’s and the nation’s democratic traditions. It is a National Historic Landmark that continues to shape the future of Maryland while preserving the legacy of its past. Whether for legislative business or historical education, it remains the focal point of Annapolis.