The Maryland Center for History and Culture is home to one of the nation’s most treasured artifacts—the original handwritten manuscript of The Star-Spangled Banner, the anthem that shaped America. Formerly known as the Maryland Historical Society, this institution is the oldest continuously operating nonprofit cultural center in the state, preserving over seven million artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Maryland’s past.

Located in the heart of Baltimore, the center offers a deep dive into the state’s history, from Indigenous heritage and colonial America to the Civil War and modern cultural movements. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, rare archival treasures, and rotating displays that bring history to life. Whether you’re here to witness the manuscript that inspired a nation or to uncover Maryland’s untold stories, the Maryland Center for History and Culture is an essential stop for history lovers and the simply curious alike.