As a vibrant city famous for its historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and pioneering achievements, Baltimore is known for many things. From Fort McHenry, where the national anthem was born, to the prestigious Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore is a city with a rich heritage. The more you delve into the city’s contributions to history, culture, and innovation, the more you’ll discover what makes living in Baltimore so remarkable.
Did You Know These Fun Facts About Baltimore?
- Baltimore is home to Fort McHenry, the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
- The National Aquarium in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a leading center for marine education and conservation. It’s also Maryland’s largest paid tourist attraction and the first public aquarium in America.
- Baltimore’s B&O Railroad Museum represents the birthplace of American railroading.
- Johns Hopkins University was the first American research university.
- Al Capone donated two Japanese weeping cherry trees to Union Memorial Hospital, only one of which is still there. Several cuttings of the tree have been planted around the hospital’s campus and nicknamed “Caponettes.”
- Baltimore’s Washington Monument was built by the same architect as the one in D.C., Robert Mills, and it was completed 19 years before that one even started construction.
- The Baltimore Museum of Art has more than 1,200 pieces by French artist Henri Matisse, the largest collection of his work in the world.
- Baltimore’s National Brewing Company may or may not have invented the six-pack of beer. Either way, even though National Bohemian, or “Natty Boh,” is produced in Ohio and Georgia now, 90% of its sales still come from Baltimore.
- Baltimore lays claim to the first umbrella factory in America, the Beehler Umbrella Factory. It had the humorous motto of “Born in Baltimore, Raised Everywhere.”
- The USS Constellation in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the last surviving Civil War-era ship and served for 100 years before being decommissioned.
- The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was the first cathedral in the U.S. and now receives thousands of visitors each year.
- The Baltimore World Trade Center is the world’s tallest equilateral pentagonal building. It was briefly the world’s tallest five-sided building, period, but the JPMorgan Chase Tower in Houston claimed the crown in 1981.
- Baltimore is an independent city—it’s not part of any county. It’s the biggest out of America’s 41 independent cities.
Famous People from Baltimore
What would a city be if not for its residents? You might recognize a few of these historical figures and celebrities that were born in Baltimore:
- Babe Ruth
- Michael Phelps
- David Hasselhoff
- Nancy Pelosi
- Thurgood Marshall
- Tom Clancy
- Frank Zappa
- John Wilkes Booth
- Billie Holiday
- Upton Sinclair
- Mike Rowe
- Jada Pinkett-Smith
- Julie Bowen
- And many more!
Also, one honorable mention: Edgar Allen Poe was technically born in Boston, but even he claimed that he was born in Baltimore. The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is located in Baltimore, as is Poe’s grave.
The Birthplace of the National Anthem
Fort McHenry—named after Secretary of War James McHenry—is a cornerstone of Baltimore’s rich history. Its significance was cemented during the War of 1812, a time when Baltimore’s heyday was marked by its resilience and strategic importance.
In the War of 1812, Fort McHenry withstood a severe bombardment by the British, playing a pivotal role in protecting Baltimore and uplifting American spirits. It was during this intense battle that Francis Scott Key, inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying after the bombardment, penned what would become the American national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Today, this star-shaped fortress is not only the Fort McHenry National Monument but also the only Historic Shrine in the National Park Service. It’s a place where history comes alive, reminding us of the battles fought and the resilience that has shaped our nation.
Home to the National Aquarium
Nestled in the heart of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium is more than just a Baltimore museum—it’s a beacon of marine education and conservation. This iconic institution played a significant role in the revitalization of the Inner Harbor in the 1980s, transforming the area into a vibrant waterfront neighborhood. The aquarium’s prime location and extensive collection of over 750 species make it an essential stop for any Baltimore visitor, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Baltimore with kids.
Each exhibit is meticulously designed to mimic natural habitats, providing a home for a wide variety of animals, from dolphins to poison dart frogs and electric eels to two-toed sloths. The aquarium serves as both a place for entertainment and a vital center for education on marine life and conservation efforts.
All told, the National Aquarium is a testament to Baltimore’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its role as a major city in promoting sustainability and education.
America’s First Research University
Established in 1876, Johns Hopkins University revolutionized American higher education by merging teaching and research. Modeled after European research institutions, it was the first American university to adopt this approach, setting a precedent for future universities.
When exploring John Hopkins’ presence in Baltimore today, you’ll find four campuses specializing in arts and sciences, engineering, medicine, public health, business, and more.
For over four decades, Johns Hopkins has led all U.S. universities in annual research and development expenditures to the tune of over $3 billion annually. Its contributions to numerous fields underscore its role as a pivotal institution not just in Baltimore, but globally.
A Hub for Railroads
The city’s B&O Railroad Museum epitomizes Baltimore’s considerable role in the history of American railroading. Located at Mount Clare, a National Historic Landmark, the museum boasts the largest collection of 19th-century locomotives in the United States.
The museum represents the birthplace of American railroading, tracing its roots back to the first passenger and freight station in the country, while The Roundhouse, built in 1884, serves as the centerpiece of this historic site, drawing visitors into the golden age of the railroads.
The B&O Railroad Museum not only preserves this rich history but also educates visitors about the transformative impact railroads had on American society.
Art and Culture Galore
Founded in 1914 with only a single painting, the Baltimore Museum of Art has since evolved into a cultural titan boasting over 97,000 works. It houses the largest public collection of Henri Matisse’s works, as well as the internationally acclaimed Cone Collection.
This museum is a cornerstone of Baltimore’s art scene, attracting art lovers from around the world with over 1,000 artworks from Native North America, pieces from over 200 African states and societies, and an extensive collection from China, Japan, India, Tibet, Southeast Asia, and more.
In addition to the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Walters Art Museum is another gem in the city’s cultural crown. Located in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, the Walters Art Museum houses a vast collection spanning from ancient Egypt to 19th-century European art. This neighborhood is also home to the original Washington Monument and the George Peabody Library, further cementing Baltimore’s reputation as a monumental city of art and culture.
Baltimore’s commitment to preserving art and culture shines through its numerous museums and cultural venues.
Rich African American History
There are many places to learn about African American history in Baltimore, as demonstrated by significant contributions celebrated at sites like the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum.
This national heritage site honors the legacy of Frederick Douglass and Isaac Myers, two influential figures in maritime history. Douglass, who lived in Baltimore as an enslaved child, and Myers, a free-born African American who became a national leader, are central to the narrative of African American resilience and achievement.
The park offers insights into the development of Baltimore around the maritime trades. Visitors can explore exhibits that chronicle the lives of Douglass and Myers, the history of the first black-owned shipyard, and the broader contributions of African Americans to the maritime industry.
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture further showcases the rich history and culture of African Americans in Maryland. Through its extensive collections and educational programs, the museum celebrates the achievements of African Americans, providing an up-close view of their impact on Baltimore and beyond.
A Major Port City
Founded in 1729 as a tobacco and grain shipping port, Baltimore rapidly evolved into a busy seaport and shipbuilding hub.
By the time of the American Revolution, the city’s strategic location and thriving port made it a crucial hub for trade and commerce. The success of Baltimore clipper ships extended the city’s trade reach to the Caribbean, solidifying its importance as a major city.
Today, Baltimore City remains a vital seaport and a major automobile-shipping point due to its connection to the sea via the Chesapeake Bay. The city’s waterfront neighborhoods—including Harbor East and the vibrant Inner Harbor—continue to draw visitors and businesses alike, showcasing Baltimore’s enduring legacy as a monumental city of trade and industry and forming a cornerstone of the Baltimore economy.
The Birthplace of Babe Ruth
Baltimore is also renowned as the birthplace of baseball legend Babe Ruth. Born George Herman Ruth on February 6, 1895, Ruth grew up in Baltimore before rising to fame as a left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox and later as a power-hitting outfielder for the New York Yankees. His early life in Baltimore shaped his character and skills, setting the stage for his remarkable career.
Even today, Ruth’s impact on baseball is immeasurable. Known for his prodigious power and larger-than-life personality, he captivated the nation with his home run feats, hitting 54 home runs in 1920 and 59 in 1921. His legendary “Called Shot” home run during the 1932 World Series remains one of baseball’s most iconic moments.
Babe Ruth’s legacy, born in Baltimore, continues to inspire and entertain baseball fans around the world. To learn more about his story, you can visit the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum at 216 Emory Street.
Advancements in Communication
Baltimore has led the way in major strides in communication. The city’s first post office system was established in 1774, serving as a precursor to the United States’ modern Postal Service. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era in American communication, facilitating the efficient exchange of information across distances.
Another notable achievement was the establishment of the first telegraph line connecting Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. On May 24, 1844, Samuel F. B. Morse sent the first telegraphic message, “What hath God wrought,” from Washington to Baltimore, marking a significant advancement in long-distance communication.
The Great Baltimore Fire
The Great Baltimore Fire of 1904 marked a turning point in the city’s history, transforming its landscape and setting new architectural standards. This fire is why so much of Baltimore’s historic architecture is from the 1900s, even though the city has existed since the 1700s. The fire began at the John Hurst and Company building on West German Street and spread rapidly due to high winds and freezing temperatures. Despite efforts to contain its spread—including the use of dynamite—the fire raged for over 30 hours.
By the time the flames were subdued, the fire had destroyed over 1,500 buildings, severely damaged over a thousand more, covered approximately 140 acres, and caused an estimated $100 million in property loss—equivalent to more than $3.6 billion today. The aftermath left 35,000 people unemployed and devastated much of downtown Baltimore. Despite the massive destruction, the fire resulted in very few direct fatalities, with some reports claiming no deaths directly caused by the fire.
In response to the devastation, Baltimore took several measures to prevent future fires. The city established a new building code that emphasized the use of fireproof materials, implemented stricter safety standards for urban development, and transformed the local architectural landscape to prioritize fire safety.
These measures set a precedent for safety standards nationwide and ensured that a disaster like the Great Baltimore Fire would never happen again. The fire remains a defining moment in the city’s history, symbolizing both tragedy and resilience.
Other Notable Baltimore Facts
Baltimore takes pride in several other historical milestones that emphasize its innovative spirit, including:
- The first successful manned balloon launch in the United States, showcasing Baltimore’s early contributions to aviation in 1784.
- The first professional sports organization, the Maryland Jockey Club.
- The United States’ first Catholic cathedral, The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Other notable achievements—like Baltimore’s role in hosting the Second Continental Congress in 1776—underscore the city’s rich history and many contributions to the nation’s development.
Baltimore is a City of Firsts
Baltimore’s rich culture is woven from many threads, each contributing to the monumental city’s unique character. From the birthplace of the national anthem at Fort McHenry to the pioneering research at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore’s history is marked by resilience, innovation, and a deep sense of pride. Visiting these famous locations is one of the many great things to do in Baltimore, and there’s no telling how much you’ll learn along the way. More than just a place on a map, this city is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people and their ability to shape—and be shaped by—history.