St. Mary’s City, MD — Two of Maryland’s most iconic ships, Pride of Baltimore II and Maryland Dove, sailed together for the first time on Sept. 29, marking the beginning of the state’s countdown to its 400th anniversary. The event, titled “Sail into Maryland’s Future,” was hosted by the Southern Maryland and Baltimore National Heritage Areas and attracted local leaders, community members, and history enthusiasts.
In a gathering attended by representatives from the offices of Sen. Ben Cardin, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, and Rep. Steny Hoyer, the significance of Maryland’s past, present, and future was underscored as the tall ships navigated the St. Mary’s River, offering a visual reminder of the state’s rich maritime history.
“These two ships, built to replicate their original predecessors, are shining reminders of Southern Maryland’s rich history,” said Senator Ben Cardin during his remarks. He highlighted the historical importance of both vessels. The Pride of Baltimore II was inspired by the privateer Chasseur, a ship that famously captured 17 British vessels during the War of 1812. The Maryland Dove, on the other hand, is a replica of one of the original vessels that helped establish Maryland as a colony, bringing settlers to the state’s shores under the second Baron Baltimore.
Senator Chris Van Hollen echoed Cardin’s sentiments, noting how the event symbolizes Maryland’s storied past and its path forward. “The Pride of Baltimore II and Maryland Dove represent treasured ships from our past, and their sailing together was a special way to commemorate our history – especially as we look toward our 400th anniversary and the future that lies ahead,” Van Hollen said.
Local residents, including teachers, artists, police chaplains, museum specialists, and business leaders, participated in the sail, while others gathered on the bluffs of Historic St. Mary’s Dock to watch the ships make their historic journey. The event emphasized community and togetherness, as attendees celebrated not only the ships but Maryland’s long-standing legacy.
Chairman Gray of the Piscataway Indian Nation also addressed the crowd, reminding them of the region’s deep and complex history, rooted in the native peoples who first inhabited the area. Gray’s remarks brought a poignant reminder of the broader context of Maryland’s history and heritage.
Rep. Steny Hoyer, who has been a key advocate for Maryland’s National Heritage Areas, highlighted the event’s significance. “I am pleased that the Maryland Dove and the Pride of Baltimore II could sail together this weekend to celebrate our state’s rich history and its maritime roots,” Hoyer said. He also praised the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area’s efforts in preserving and showcasing Maryland’s history, adding, “I was proud to help establish the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, and I look forward to continuing my work to preserve our region’s incredible history.”
Lucille Walker, executive director of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, shared the vision of collaboration and forward-thinking that Maryland’s anniversary represents. “As we reflect on the past 400 years, we seek to build and strengthen collaboration, tell everyone’s story, and find opportunities to meaningfully invest in the future for all. This is Maryland’s decade! And we are honored to start that countdown today,” Walker said.
As the 400th anniversary approaches, Southern Maryland and Baltimore will play pivotal roles in highlighting the state’s historical contributions. These regions, deeply tied to the founding and shaping of Maryland, have witnessed critical moments in U.S. history.
Shauntee Daniels, executive director of the Baltimore National Heritage Area, pointed out the historical significance of both regions. “Baltimore and Southern Maryland have both witnessed and participated in events that have dramatically altered the course of our nation’s history,” Daniels said. “This event brings us to where Maryland began, and by sailing together, we join together in our efforts to share Maryland’s powerful heritage into the future.”
The commemoration event is part of a broader series of initiatives planned to honor the state’s 400th anniversary. As Maryland approaches this milestone, leaders hope to not only reflect on its past but also use the moment to plan for the future, ensuring that the state’s rich history continues to be shared with future generations.
The historic sail of the Pride of Baltimore II and Maryland Dove was a symbolic start to this reflection and forward-looking celebration, uniting past and future in a visually compelling and meaningful way.