The museum houses an incredible collection of treasures. From 18th- and 19th-century paintings and silver to 20th- century objects of everyday life, the museum collection celebrates Maryland’s rich and diverse history.

The museum houses the Carey Center for Maryland Life, which showcases the MdHS collections through its core exhibitions, Looking for Liberty: An Overview of Maryland History, Maryland Through the Artist’s Eye, and Furniture in Maryland Life.

Among its more than 350,000 objects, the most significant collection of Maryland cultural artifacts in the world, are more then 2,000 paintings including the largest collection of works of art by members of the Peale family, a significant collection of maritime-related artifacts, and outstanding collections of 19th-century Maryland painted and inlaid furniture, silver and quilts, costumes, ceramics, and dolls and toys.

Silver Epergne, 1846

Marked by Andrew Ellicott Warner 1985.11

The First Landing of Leonard Calvert in Maryland, c. 1865-1870

David Acheson Woodward (1823-1909) 1924.7.1

USS Hornet, sailor’s model, 19th century

Maker unknown M1978.5.1