Maryland State Names

Maryland Nicknames and Resident's Name

Middle Atlantic

• Old Line State

• Free State

• Cockade State

• Monumental State

• Terrapin State

Old Line State

The Old Line nickname was given during the Revolutionary War, when 400 soldiers in the First Maryland Regiment fought a British force of 10,000 and helped General George Washington's army to escape. Washington depended on the Maryland Line throughout the war, and the soldiers' discipline and bravery earned Maryland its nickname.

Free State

The name "Free State" was given in 1919, when Congress passed a law prohibiting the sale and use of alcohol. Marylanders opposed prohibition because they believed it violated their state's rights. The "Free State" nickname also represents Maryland's long tradition of political freedom and religious tolerance.

Origin of Maryland State Name

In honor of Henrietta Maria (queen of Charles I of England). The charter that Lord Baltimore received from King Charles I of England specified a name for the new colony. It was to be called Maryland to honor King Charles' wife Queen Henrietta Maria (Queen Mary).

Capitol

• Annapolis

Maryland Postal Code

MD

Maryland Resident's Name

Marylander