Baltimore printer Mary Katherine Goddard is the first in the new nation to publish the entire Declaration of Independence, including the names of all the signers and boldly adding her own which action makes her liable for treason like all other signers. She is also the Baltimore postmistress.
She later publishes the almanacs of African American self-taught astronomer Benjamin Banneker between 1792- 1797.
Roger Taney, Maryland native and Supreme Court Chief Justice, delivers 7-2 opinion in 1857, in the Dred Scott case, declaring that Blacks in the US are not considered citizens nor entitled to government protection, and that Congress cannot prohibit slavery. The decision becomes a major factor leading to the Civil War.
Fannie May Salter serves 22 years ending in 1947 as the last female lighthouse keeper at Turkey Point Light on the Elk Neck River in Cecil County. Here she is pictured with her son and their turkeys. Her house and lighthouse are in the background.
An African American teen, born enslaved, becomes a nationally recognized chess champion in 1872 in Frederick.
We acknowledge the enduring presence of many American Indian tribes who once lived in Maryland and who now, having lost their lands, live in a diaspora. Read more.
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