We’re #1! We’re #1! Although that phrase can be a bit overused, it’s true when it comes to the following 10 items. Take a look and be WOWed at these Baltimore firsts that we’re proud to say our city did before anyone else!

1. The first to dedicate a monument to George Washington.
Flickr / Chung Chu
Everyone has heard of DC's Washington Monument, but Baltimore paid tribute to George Washington even before that. Built in 1815, this tall structure is now the centerpiece of the Mount Vernon neighborhood.
2. Home to the first cathedral in the U.S.
Flickr / Brian Moran
This grand structure is known as The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. You can visit America's first cathedral to experience splendor and history.
3. The first dental school in America.
Flickr / Joint Hometown News Se
University of Maryland was the first to begin a dental school in 1840. Other colleges across the country eventually followed. How's that for interesting things Baltimore did first?!
4. The birthplace of America's railroad.
Flickr / Mr.TinDC
In fact, you can still ride the first commercial mile of railroad track laid in America at the B & O Railroad Museum on West Pratt Street. An enriching day trip, indeed.
5. The electric refrigerator was invented here.
Flickr / Brad K.
Where would we be without the refrigerator? It was invented in 1803 by one of Baltimore and Maryland's most famous residents, Thomas Moore.
6. The first wax museum of African American history in the U.S.
Flickr / SherryBerryVA
Established in 1983, the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum can now be visited year-round on E North Ave.
7. The Ouija board was invented here.
Flickr / jmawork
What's even cooler is that the inventor, Elijah Bond, is now buried in Baltimore's Green Mount Cemetery. His headstone is a replica Ouija board. A must see!
8. America's first professional sports organization.
Flickr / MdAgDept
The Maryland Jockey Club dates all the way back to the mid-1700s and is still going strong. When it comes to Baltimore inventions, this is one of our proudest.
9. Home of the first city magazine.
Flickr / Erica
Baltimore Magazine is over a century old, having began in 1906. You can still find this magazine at local markets, as they're most known for highlighting the best doctors, restaurants, and businesses in the area.
10. First African American Supreme Court Justice.
Flickr / Jim Bowen
Did you know that Thurgood Marshall was a Baltimorean? You can find a memorial of this inspiring soul at the Annapolis State House.

When it comes to Baltimore firsts, this list just scratches the surface. Do you know of any other things Baltimore did first that you would add to this list? We’d love to read about your suggestions in the comments section below!

For a handful of interesting Maryland facts, here are 12 things you probably didn’t know about!

If you’re still in the mood for more Maryland adventures, take a look at this video:

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

Out and About in Maryland

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | June 07, 2023

Where can we find historic sites in Maryland?

  • Washington Monument State Park in Boonsboro is a rustic stone tower built in 1827 in honor of the memory of George Washington.
  • Fort McHenry in Baltimore played a role in the war of 1812.
  • The Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg is the place where 23,000 soldiers were killed during the bloody battle of Antietam.

Read on to learn about some of the many other interesting historic sites in Maryland.

Where can we find flea markets in Maryland?

  • The Patapsco Flea Market in Baltimore is a popular indoor and outdoor market that also has a food court.
  • The Chesapeake MarketPlace-Action House in St. Leonard features over 100 shops selling a wide array of unique items.
  • The Hancock Antique Mall & Indoor Flea Market in Hancock is popular with those looking for antique items, furniture, and more.

Read on to learn about some of the many other popular flea markets in Maryland.

Where can we find scenic spots in Maryland?

  • The Maryland Heights Trail in Harper's Ferry offers scenic views of Harper's Ferry and beyond.
  • The King and Queen Seat is a gorgeous overlook in Rocks State Park.
  • Dan's Rock sits atop of Dan's Mountain and is accessible via a scenic winding road to the top.

Read on to learn about some of the many other wonderful scenic spots in Maryland.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Baltimore, MD, USA