We're #1! We're #1! Although that phrase can be a bit overused, it's true when it comes to the following 10 items. Take a look and be WOWed at these Maryland inventions, which are also Baltimore firsts, that we're proud to say our city did before anyone else!
1. The first to dedicate a monument to George Washington.
Everyone has heard of DC's Washington Monument, but Baltimore paid tribute to George Washington even before that. This, one of many Maryland inventions as you will see, built in 1815, this tall structure is now the centerpiece of the Mount Vernon neighborhood.
2. Home to the first cathedral in the U.S.
This grand structure is known as The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. You can visit America's first cathedral to experience splendor and history.
3. The first dental school in America.
University of Maryland was the first to begin a dental school in 1840. Other colleges across the country eventually followed. How's that for interesting things Baltimore did first?!
4. The birthplace of America's railroad.
In fact, you can still ride the first commercial mile of railroad track laid in America at the B & O Railroad Museum on West Pratt Street. An enriching day trip, indeed.
5. The electric refrigerator was invented here.
Where would we be without the refrigerator? It was invented in 1803 by one of Baltimore and Maryland's most famous residents, Thomas Moore.
6. The first wax museum of African American history in the U.S.
Established in 1983, the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum can now be visited year-round on E North Ave.
7. The Ouija board was invented here.
What's even cooler is that the inventor, Elijah Bond, is now buried in Baltimore's Green Mount Cemetery. His headstone is a replica Ouija board. A must see!
8. America's first professional sports organization.
The Maryland Jockey Club dates all the way back to the mid-1700s and is still going strong. When it comes to Baltimore inventions, this is one of our proudest.
9. Home of the first city magazine.
Baltimore Magazine is over a century old, having began in 1906. You can still find this magazine at local markets, as they're most known for highlighting the best doctors, restaurants, and businesses in the area.
10. First African American Supreme Court Justice.
Did you know that Thurgood Marshall was a Baltimorean? You can find a memorial of this inspiring soul at the Annapolis State House.
So, if someone were to ask you, "What did Maryland invent?," although these are in Baltimore,you’d know what to tell them!
When it comes to Baltimore firsts, this list just scratches the surface. Do you know of any other things Baltimore did first that you would add to this list? Are you aware of any other things invented in Maryland? We'd love to read about your suggestions in the comments section below!
For a handful of interesting Maryland facts, here are 12 things you probably didn’t know about!
Thinking about taking a Maryland vacation soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
If you’re still in the mood for more Maryland adventures, take a look at this video:
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