Forging Freedom and Nails

Historical marker location:

Avalon, Maryland

( Marker can be reached from the intersection of Washington Boulevard (U.S. 1) and South Street.)

Maryland was the first state to pass a law requiring free public education: In 1827, Maryland became the first state to pass a law requiring free public education for all children. The law was initially aimed at poor children, but eventually expanded to include all children regardless of their economic status.