Discover What Makes Southern Maryland Unique
Did you know Southern Maryland is home to the first colonial capital of Maryland and the birthplace of religious freedom in America? Or that you can find prehistoric shark teeth along its shores? Whether you’re a lifelong resident, new to the area, or planning a visit, these fun facts about Southern Maryland will deepen your appreciation for this beautiful, historic region.
From its colonial history to seafood traditions and outdoor adventures, Southern Maryland is filled with stories and experiences that make it one of the most unique places to visit in Maryland.
🗺️ What is Southern Maryland Known For?
Southern Maryland includes Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, bordering the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River. Known for its:
- Colonial and maritime history
- Chesapeake Bay seafood traditions
- Waterfront communities and rural farmland
- Fossil-filled cliffs and natural preserves
Its blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation makes it a top destination for both visitors and new residents.
📜 Historical Fun Facts About Southern Maryland
✅ 1. Birthplace of Religious Freedom
Southern Maryland is often called the birthplace of religious freedom in America. In 1634, settlers landed at St. Clement’s Island and founded St. Mary’s City, Maryland’s first colonial settlement.
In 1649, the Maryland Toleration Act was passed, granting religious freedom to all Christians—a groundbreaking law at the time. (source)
✅ 2. Maryland’s First Capital Was in St. Mary’s County
Before Annapolis, St. Mary’s City served as Maryland’s first capital. Today, it is an active archaeological site and living history museum, showcasing reconstructed colonial buildings and costumed interpreters that bring the Southern Maryland colonial history to life. (source)
✅ 3. Tobacco Shaped Southern Maryland’s Economy
Tobacco farming was the region’s economic backbone for centuries. Many of the historic barns you see driving through Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties were built to cure tobacco leaves. While the crop’s dominance has declined, its cultural imprint remains strong.
✅ 4. Fossil Hunting at Calvert Cliffs
Southern Maryland is famous for Calvert Cliffs, where you can find 15-million-year-old fossils, including shark teeth from ancient megalodons. Calvert Cliffs State Park and nearby beaches like Flag Ponds are popular destinations for fossil hunting.
🦪 Seafood & Cultural Trivia
✅ 5. Home of Maryland’s Stuffed Ham
One of the most unique foods in Southern Maryland is stuffed ham, a regional specialty of St. Mary’s County. It’s a corned ham stuffed with kale, cabbage, and spices, often served during holidays and family gatherings.
✅ 6. Oyster & Blue Crab Heritage
Southern Maryland’s economy and culture were built on seafood. Oysters, blue crabs, and rockfish are staples of the local diet. The region once had thriving oyster industries, and many towns still host seafood festivals celebrating these traditions each year. (source)
✅ 7. Point Lookout State Park: Haunted History
Located in St. Mary’s County, Point Lookout State Park is considered one of the most haunted places in Maryland. It was used as a prison camp during the Civil War, and visitors report ghostly sightings near the lighthouse and old hospital site. (source)
🏞️ Interesting Facts About Southern Maryland’s Unique Attractions
✅ 8. Sotterley Plantation: A National Historic Landmark
Historic Sotterley in St. Mary’s County dates back to the early 1700s. It is the only Tidewater plantation in Maryland open to the public and includes original slave quarters, gardens, and scenic waterfront views over the Patuxent River.
✅ 9. The Amish Community of Southern Maryland
In Charlotte Hall (St. Mary’s County), you’ll find a thriving Amish community. Their farms, markets, and handmade furniture shops are popular with locals and visitors alike, adding to Southern Maryland’s cultural diversity.
✅ 10. Smallwood State Park & Historic Retreat
Located in Charles County, Smallwood State Park includes Smallwood’s Retreat, the restored home of General William Smallwood, a Revolutionary War hero. The park offers fishing, boating, and hiking trails along Mattawoman Creek.
✅ 11. The Oldest Catholic Church in Continuous Use
St. Francis Xavier Church, founded in 1640, is the oldest Catholic church site in the original 13 colonies still in continuous use. It’s located in Newtown Neck, St. Mary’s County, overlooking Breton Bay.
✨ Fun Things to Do in Southern Maryland
If these Southern Maryland trivia facts inspired you to explore, here are quick ideas:
- Visit Calvert Marine Museum for maritime exhibits and river otters
- Kayak the Patuxent River and spot bald eagles
- Explore Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Calvert County
- Attend the St. Mary’s County Oyster Festival each October
🎯 Southern Maryland’s Stories Make It Special
From colonial capitals to fossil-filled cliffs, Southern Maryland’s history and culture are woven into its landscapes and traditions. Whether you’re enjoying stuffed ham, hunting for megalodon teeth, or learning about its role in religious freedom, there is always something interesting to know about Southern Maryland.
🔑 Ready to Explore Southern Maryland?
✨ Thinking about moving to Southern Maryland or just want to learn more about its hidden gems? Contact us today for local insights, community highlights, and available homes in this beautiful and historic region. ✨
