Shaping the Future of History Campaign
Learn how you can get involved in MCHC’s plans for shaping the future of history education and engagement across Maryland and beyond.
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The Maryland Center for History and Culture is more than a Museum and Library. We provide space for discovery and developing a deeper understanding of the nation’s history and culture through the lens of Maryland.
Next Upcoming
National History Day — Free Library Research Day
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Flickering Treasures
Flickering TreasuresRediscovering Baltimore’s Forgotten Movie Theaters—Open Through September 2022
In 1896, Marylanders crowded to Electric Park to see the lights and attractions, including the very first moving-picture show. Movies were magical, transporting the viewers to new places, inviting them to escape their everyday lives, marvel at a new technology, gather news, and appreciate art. Movie theaters became symbols for the worlds they were unlocking, ethereal buildings where people gathered to take a journey together through the movie screen. Open through September 2022.
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The Unfinished Revolution
The Unfinished RevolutionMaryland in the Wars for Independence
The Unfinished Revolution explores the turmoil of the United States’ emergence on the world stage between 1775 and 1815. The exhibition highlights two points that became certain—the country’s revolution remained unfinished, and Marylanders of many races and creeds were at the forefront of each conflict. Opening September 10, 2021.
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Wild and Untamed
Wild and UntamedDunton’s Discovery of the Baltimore Album Quilts—Open Through September 2022
Follow Dr. William Rush Dunton Jr. on his journey to understand the Baltimore album quilt tradition and learn how quilts served as the building blocks for his groundbreaking work in occupational therapy. Explore our internationally famous quilt collection, including never-before-seen pieces, and Dr. Dunton’s personal works to unravel a narrative that connects Dunton’s views on quilts, gender, and mental health in the 1940s. Open through September 2022.
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Discover Maryland
Discover MarylandOpen Through March 2022
Who are Marylanders, why are they so obsessed with their flag, and what does duckpin bowling have to do with the Baltimore Orioles? This exhibition explores how Maryland and its people have changed since its founding in 1634. Learn how the dynamic geography of the state drove its industry, population, and the identity of Marylanders, and how the arts and culture of Maryland reflect on its past. For traveling visitors and lifelong Marylanders, Discover Maryland shows there is much to uncover about Maryland. Open through March 2022.
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Intimate Expressions
Intimate ExpressionsPersonal Diaries of Maryland Life—Open Through June 2022
A diary is a record of one’s most private thoughts, feelings, and view of life. It is also an important historical document, providing a very personal view of major moments in Maryland history. Located in our niche gallery outside of the library, this intimate space allows visitors to step into the minds of Marylanders, read their innermost thoughts, and see the world through their eyes. Open through June 2022.
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Dedicated to preserving the irreplaceable history of Maryland
The H. Furlong Baldwin Library invites visitors to explore the records of Maryland’s past and preserves irreplaceable historical materials for future generations.
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Digital Collections
Shake Up Maryland History!
Educational Programs
Students gain essential social studies skills by engaging with our collections in person and virtually.
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A Word From Our Members
Our members believe what we believe: history can illuminate the past, lend perspective to the present, and inform the future. Don’t take our word for it. Hear what they have to say.
Join or renewThere is a lot to be gained by joining which contributes to the preservation of so many items in the [MCHC] collection that are precious to our country’s history. The museum was a surprise to me, and had me engaged for hours. The gift shop had so many lovely things, and the discount offered to members is a great incentive to purchasing books. When I cannot get to [the MCHC], they have an online collection that allows access to amazing documentation.
Kimberly K. Walters, Member Since 2017
100+ Years of the Maryland Historical Magazine
Read past issues digitized through a partnership with the Maryland State Archives. Enjoy print copies mailed to you with membership.
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All Updates
A “Triumphal” and “Monster” Parade: The June 1912 Baltimore Suffrage Parade
One hundred nine years ago this month, Maryland suffragists took to the Baltimore streets in a momentous march for women’s […]
Read MoreGenerous leading support for this website was provided by the Sheridan Foundation with additional support from the Helen Clay Frick Foundation.