Maryland State Archives

Quick Facts: Who was Maryland State Archives?

Subject:

Maryland State Archives

Known for:

Central repository for Maryland's permanent government records since 1634.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The function of preserving official records in Maryland dates back to the state's founding in 1634. The scope of these holdings is vast, encompassing colonial and state executive, legislative, and judicial records. These foundational documents provide an unparalleled view into the early governance structures of the region. The continuous accumulation of these records underscores the deep historical roots of the state's administrative history.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

A major institutional development occurred with the creation of the Hall of Records as an independent agency in 1935. This move was significantly spurred by the state's tercentenary celebrations of 1934, which highlighted the need for a modern, centralized archive. The initial proposal for a 'Memorial Hall of Records' dates back to 1928, showing an early recognition of the need for professional archival management. This period marked the formalization of state record custody.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Today, the Maryland State Archives serves as the ultimate custodian for records of permanent value, managing diverse materials including private papers, maps, and newspapers. The facility maintains a highly controlled environment, utilizing a conservation laboratory for necessary preservation measures. Its enduring impact lies in making these critical governmental and private records accessible for scholarly research and historical understanding across generations.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1634: 1634 Milestone — The function of preserving official records in Maryland dates back to the state's founding in 1634.
2. 1928: 1928 Milestone — The initial proposal for a 'Memorial Hall of Records' dates back to 1928, showing an early recognition of the need for professional archival management.
3. 1934: 1934 Milestone — This move was significantly spurred by the state's tercentenary celebrations of 1934, which highlighted the need for a modern, centralized archive.
4. 1935: 1935 Milestone — A major institutional development occurred with the creation of the Hall of Records as an independent agency in 1935.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Maryland State Archives

True or False: “True or false: The Maryland State Archives' holdings begin only with records from the 19th century.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. The Archives' holdings date back to Maryland's founding in 1634, encompassing colonial records.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Albrecht von Wallenstein — Historical peer (Died in 1634) (1634): Bohemian military leader and statesman, key figure in the Thirty Years' War.
• Edward Coke — Historical peer (Died in 1634) (1634): A towering English jurist whose work championed the supremacy of common law over the Crown.
• 14th Dalai Lama — Historical peer (Born in 1935) (1935): Spiritual leader of Tibet and head of Tibetan Buddhism since 1940.
• Abdou Diouf — Historical peer (Born in 1935) (1935): Senegalese politician who served as President of Senegal from 1981 to 2000.
• Abdullah Ibrahim — Historical peer (Born in 1934) (1934): Pianist and composer, considered the leading figure in the subgenre of Cape jazz.
• Abimael Guzmán — Historical peer (Born in 1934) (1934): Peruvian Maoist revolutionary leader, founder of the Shining Path.
• Adam West — Historical peer (Born in 1928) (1928): American actor best known for portraying Batman in the 1960s and extensive voice work.
• Adrian Frutiger — Historical peer (Born in 1928) (1928): Pioneering Swiss typeface designer, master of sans-serif aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maryland State Archives