Maryland is not a large state, but with its array of attractions and rich history, the state is an exceedingly impressive moving destination. The state is overflowing with historical significance, from colonial architecture, to the battlefields at Antietam, to the capitol of the U.S. in the nearby District of Columbia. The opportunities for outdoor activity are equally numerous. Visitors to the west part of the state can hike, bike, camp and raft the Potomac River. In the East, the fishing and sailing at Chesapeake Bay and the maritime center at Annapolis are exquisite.

Origin of State's: The state of Maryland was named to honor Queen Henrietta Maria, the wife of England's King Charles I.

Capital City: Annapolis, Maryland was settled in 1649 and celebrated its 350th birthday last year. Annapolis actually received its charter from Queen Anne of England on November 22, 1708 and is the oldest incorporated city in Maryland and one of the oldest in the entire United States. The City employs nearly 550 people who work hard to assure Annapolis remains the community of choice for our residents as the greatest place to live, work, and raise a family.

Population: Maryland's population is an estimated 5.3 million.

Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can be found on the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.

Agriculture and Industry: Major agriculture includes seafood, poultry and eggs, dairy products, nursery stock, cattle, soybeans and corn; Electric equipment, food processing, chemical products, printing and publishing, transportation equipment, machinery, primary metals, coal and tourism are state industry leaders.

State Bird: Maryland designated the Baltimore oriole as the official state bird in 1947. The Baltimore oriole is a distinctive inhabitant of Maryland's parks and suburban areas.

Tree: The white oak became the official state tree in 1941. Found commonly throughout Maryland, white oaks are large, slow-growing and long-lived trees.

State Flower: The Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) has been the official Maryland flower since 1918. Commonly found in fields and on roadsides, they bloom between May and August, reaching two to three feet in height.

State Song: Written by James Ryder Randall, "Maryland, My Maryland" is the official state song.