Maryland Celebrates Its 382nd Birthday

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Happy Maryland Day! It's been exactly 382 years since the first English colonists arrived in our state.

Amy Yensi with how the milestone is being honored and celebrated.

The gray skies and occasional rain couldn't dampen the enthusiasm for Maryland and its rich history.

The state flag stands a little bit taller on Maryland Day. March 25 marks the arrival of the first English settlers here in 1634.

"That's what makes Maryland so special is the heritage of this Chesapeake Bay, going back over 400 years," said reference librarian and historian Scott S. Heads.

The crowd held a giant American flag while singing the National Anthem in the state where it was born.

"It is very educational. It's awesome to see what it was like and what changes have been made," said Dahlia Robin.

Maryland Day has become a tradition. The annual ceremony in honor of the state's history drew dozens of people to Annapolis City Dock.

The Fort McHenry fife and drum corps sent vibrations of pride to the crowd gathered to greet the Pride of Baltimore II -- a symbol of strength anchored in the state capital for all to admire.

"Thomas Kemp, who built the ship, was in my family ancestry. So I'm showing them a little of our family history, as well as our state's," said Jodi Hair.

This year's celebration is the launching pad for an educational partnership with the National Park Service.

"It's incredibly important that we teach our young people about the remarkable history, about those who paved the way for all of us," said Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford.

"History is always around us, and it's really fascinating to see history come to life," said Rachel Lent.

The Pride will be docked in Annapolis through Saturday so the crowds can enjoy the ship.

The partnership will start this May. It will teach hundreds of students about the Star-Spangled Banner and about Maryland's role in this country's history.