Maryland's Mesmerizing Morsels: Unearthing the State's Eccentric and Enchanting Past

In a state as wondrous as Maryland, there exists a vibrant tapestry of history that intermingles with the present. Each thread in this colorful past unveils peculiar anecdotes and astonishing trivia, worthy of any discerning traveler or aficionado. Come along on this journey through some lesserknown treasures, accentuated by local customs and artistic flair that embody the diverse vivacity of Maryland.

First stop Baltimore, home to Edgar Allan Poe (203 N Amity St., Baltimore, MD 21223). This thriving city paints its rich maritime history on every brick of Fells Point (Thames St & S Broadway., Baltimore) from which it sprouted. Did you know that Captain Frederick Augustus Fells established Fells Point Shipyard in 1726? It was here where Francis Scott Key watched bombs burst over Fort McHenry (2400 E Fort Ave.,Baltimore), inspiring him to pen The StarSpangled Banner. One cannot help but wonder if Key would have joined our soiree at one of those iconic whiskeyfilled saloons!

An intriguing detour leads us southward toward Annapolis what is now known for its picturesque bay views holds another secret within its depths. Historians claim early settlers buried two golden pyramids right beneath Brewer Hill Cemetery (802 West Street Annapolis)! The sheer audaciousness harkens back to H.P Lovecraft's tales woven around lost civilizations; perhaps there lie dormant echoes amidst these burial grounds.

Saunter on towards Ellicott City an architectural gem nestled between rolling hills where mischievous sprites reside amid granite boulders! Or so they say... But did you know Bodys Bridge (Ilchester Rd.,Ellicott), standing tall since 1902, has quite the chilling lore attached? In the moonlit hours, distraught souls are said to leap from its arches into the swirling waters below perhaps a scene worthy of Alfred Hitchcock's cinematic vision.

Indulge us in another jaunt doubling back to western Maryland's frosty peaks. Cumberland shrouds itself in a cotton candylike haze on winter mornings; however, beneath this serene facade lies an underground labyrinth! These caves at Crystal Grotto (19821 Shepherdstown Pike Boonsboro) once served as bootleggers' hideouts during Prohibition days. Imagine John Steinbeck immortalizing their clandestine sojourns while paintings inside mimic shadows dancing in flickering torchlights!

Finally, we circle back eastward toward Ocean City with its Atlantic wanderings and carnival revelry. Abandoning any sense of decorum for the moment, let loose your inner child upon Trimper's Rides (700 S Atlantic Ave.,Ocean)! With over 100 years under its belt, it hosts America's oldest continuously operating carousel a testament to Marylands endearing nostalgia that intertwines with ambitious dreams.

As our whirlwind exploration concludes, these delightful tidbits merely hint at the sheer depth and breadth of charm hidden within every crevice of Maryland. We encourage you to further delve into her spirited embrace: immerse yourself in hospitable warmth and toast to powerful tales etched on her diverse landscape.

Useful websites:

Visit Maryland www.visitmaryland.org

Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum www.poeinbaltimore.org

Maryland Historical Society www.mdhs.com

Twitter handles:

@TravelMD

@PoeBaltimore

@MdHistoricalSoc