Maryland Nickname

State Nickname of Maryland

The Old Line State


Maryland-Nickname

MD is the Two-letter or Postal Abbreviation and Md. is the Traditional or Standard Abbreviation for the State of Maryland. According to some historians, General George Washington gave the name “Old Line State.” Maryland was given that name because with its regular line troops, the Maryland Line, served courageously in many Revolutionary War battles.

Maryland’s second nickname is The Free State. Maryland was first recognized as a “Free State” on November 1, 1864. On that date, the Maryland Constitution of 1864 took effect. By its provisions, slavery within the State’s borders was abolished, and Maryland became a free state.