Maryland State Archives: A Treasure Trove of History and Culture
The Maryland State Archives serves as the central repository for the state's historical documents and records. Established in 1935, it is the primary institution responsible for preserving and providing access to Maryland's rich history, dating back to the earliest colonial settlements. This article will provide an in-depth look at the Maryland State Archives, detailing its history, collections, services, and future plans.
The History of the Maryland State Archives
The Maryland State Archives has a storied past, evolving over time to meet the needs of the state and its citizens. Initially known as the Hall of Records, the organization was created by the Maryland General Assembly in 1935 to consolidate various state documents and records that were scattered throughout the state. In 1984, the name was changed to the Maryland State Archives to reflect its growing role and responsibilities.
Over the years, the Maryland State Archives has become an essential resource for historians, genealogists, researchers, and the general public interested in understanding the state's rich past. The archive's mission is to provide access to vital historical information while ensuring the preservation of the state's documentary heritage for future generations.
The Collections at the Maryland State Archives
The Maryland State Archives houses an extensive range of collections, spanning from the early colonial period to the present day. These collections encompass a wide variety of formats, including manuscripts, maps, photographs, newspapers, and government records.
Government Records
A significant portion of the collections at the Maryland State Archives consists of government records. These documents offer invaluable insights into the workings of the state's government, its policies, and its interactions with citizens. Some key examples include:
- Executive Records: Correspondence, proclamations, and other official documents from Maryland's governors, dating back to the 1600s.
- Legislative Records: Bills, resolutions, and committee reports from the Maryland General Assembly, providing insight into the state's law-making process.
- Judicial Records: Court records that showcase the development of Maryland's legal system, including case files, dockets, and land records.
- Local Government Records: A wide range of records from Maryland's counties and cities, including land records, wills, and tax records.
Manuscripts and Personal Papers
The Maryland State Archives also holds a rich collection of personal papers and manuscripts from prominent individuals in the state's history. These documents offer a more intimate look at the lives and experiences of Marylanders throughout the centuries. Some notable examples include the papers of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and the papers of Frederick Douglass, the renowned abolitionist, and writer.
Newspapers, Maps, and Photographs
The Maryland State Archives contains a vast collection of newspapers, maps, and photographs that illuminate various aspects of the state's history. The newspaper collection, for instance, features titles from every county in Maryland, offering a window into local news and events from the 18th century to the present. Meanwhile, the map collection contains over 10,000 maps, including colonial-era maps, Civil War-era maps, and topographical maps, which help trace the state's geographical evolution.
The photograph collection at the Maryland State Archives is another invaluable resource, with over one million images documenting the state's people, places, and events. These photographs capture the diverse experiences of Marylanders throughout the years, providing visual records of the state's growth and development.
Services Offered by the Maryland State Archives
The Maryland State Archives is committed to making its collections accessible to the public. To this end, it provides a range of services and resources for researchers, historians, genealogists, and the general public.