🎂Baltimore is turning 294! On this day in 1729, the Maryland General Assembly passed an act that formally created the town of Baltimore. This map from our library depicts the first three streets, Calvert Street, Forest (now Charles) Street, and Long Street (previously Market and now Baltimore Street). In between the streets, 60 acres are divided into the first 60 lots. Still, for most of the 1700s, Annapolis remained the state’s largest and most influential urban center. After the American Revolution, Baltimore experienced explosive growth and would surpass the capital in population. In 1796 and 1797, “Baltimore” was combined with Fells Point and Jonestown and incorporated as the city we know today. Some argue that 1797, featured on the Seal of Baltimore, is the city’s true founding year. Either way, we love a reason to celebrate. What do you think? Discover the history of Maryland with our library archives or exhibitions at the Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC). #...