Old Treasury Building

Photos Map Information: State Circle 410 974-3400 Old Treasury Building State House visitor information Advertisement

The Old Treasury sits on the grounds of Maryland's State House and is the oldest public building still standing in the state. Built between 1735-1737, it was constructed by a local builder, Patrick Creagh, to be the offices of the Commissioners for Emitting Bills of Credit.

Prior to 1733, Maryland colonists relied primarily on two types of currency: minted coins and tobacco. Because both of these were difficult to use - coins were rare and tended to be used in international trade, and tobacco fluctuated so much in price, Lord Baltimore agreed to the printing of paper money to ease the settlers' currency needs.

The building, constructed in a small cruciform or cross-shaped design, provided a secure office for the Commissioners. The substantial brick walls, barred windows, and massive wooden door attest to the precautions taken to protect the record books and the currency. The office was only open on Wednesdays, and the furnishings included two iron chests, one for the record books, and one for the currency.

The Old Treasury was restored by the state of Maryland in 1949, one of the first modern restorations to occur.