MARYLAND.
This is the most irregularly shaped of all the American states. Here the system of husbandry peculiar to the Southern States generally commences, it being the first in our progress southward where tobacco is produced. Wheat, hemp, and flax, are considerably cultivated.
The first settlers of this State were natives of Sweden, and many of their posterity may still be found who are like their forefathers, healthy, cheerful, industrious, and hospitable.
This State ranks high in a commercial view. Its commercial city is Baltimore, where there is an excellent harbor, capable of containing a great number of vessels. Its inhabitants are celebrated for hospitality, a spirit of enterprise, and polished manners. It contains many elegant public structures, viz. the Washington and Battle Monuments, the Exchange, the Museum, and Hospital. Much attention is paid to education. Population 80,625.
Annapolis is the capital. It is situated 28 miles southeast from Baltimore, and is a flourishing place, containing a handsome state house in its centre, towards which the streets run.
The principal manufacture of this State is flour, which is made in such quantities as to form the chief article of export. Tobacco, lumber, iron, glass, and whiskey, are also exported.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
Between Maryland and Virginia, lies the Federal District of Columbia, comprising a square of ten miles. This district which was given by these States to the United States, lies on both sides of the river Potomack, 120 miles from its mouth, and is under the immediate jurisdiction of the National Congress, which assembles annually at Washington, for the purpose of legislation. Washington is situated near the centre of the district, and is laid out in such manner, that the principal buildings, as the Capitol, President’s house, &c. command a full view of the city, and at the same time can be seen from every part of it. Georgetown and Alexandria are also within the district.