12 Facts You May Not Know About Maryland

So you think you’re a trivia buff? How much do you know about the Old Line State? Check out this list full of things you may not have known about the state of Maryland.

The first dental school in America opened at the University of Maryland.

Joint Hometown News Service / Flickr

The Maryland State House is the oldest state capital in continuous legislative use, dating back to 1772.

Sean_Marshall / Flickr

Brookeville was the US capital for one day due to President James Madison seeking refuge there after the British invasion and burning of DC.

Dan Reed / Flickr

Maryland was the first state to pass worker’s compensation laws in 1902.

atalou / Flickr

Maryland’s state insect is the Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly.

Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren / Flickr

Havre de Grace has been referred to as the decoy capital of the world.

Chesapeake Bay Program / Flickr

In 1805, the first practical refrigerator was invented in Baltimore.

Brad.K / Flickr

The USS Constellation, located at the Baltimore Harbor, was used during the Civil War era.

Jean-Pierre Louis / Flickr

Maryland’s highest point is on Backbone Mountain in Garrett County.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr

The Maryland Gazette is the oldest continuously published newspaper in the US.

Doug Coldwell / Flickr

As of 2013, Maryland is the 19th most populated US state.

mr_wahlee / Flickr

The Maryland flag is the only US state flag based on British heraldry.

Austin Kirk / Flickr

Did any of these facts surprise you? What are bits of Maryland trivia do you love sharing with others? Let us know in the comments…