Junior English major
Washington beckons people from all over the world. Everyone wants to see the illustrious National Mall adorned with museums, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool where so many people have gathered in the name of protest and definitely Abraham Lincoln’s eyes, which seem to pierce the souls of all who visit him at the Lincoln Memorial.
These tourists want to see and experience a city that’s supposed to be the most American city in our fair country. And the more patriotic, the better the city, right? Wrong. The annual 15 million-plus D.C. tourists don’t seem to know that a far better city lies a mere 40 miles north.
Baltimore — aka Charm City. It’s a place whose claim to fame is The Wire, and it’s the home of the reigning Super Bowl champions (insert obligatory “Joe Flacco rules” statement here). By day, Baltimore buzzes with people taking the water taxis to and fro, and by night the city is not painted red, but purple, orange and black to show the undying love of its sports fans.
Baltimore is truly a Marylander’s city, which makes it better than Washington. The exclusivity of being wrapped in Baltimore’s arms and not having to share it with anyone — unlike D.C., which is shared by locals, this state’s residents, Virginians and people from all around the world — makes the 21201 zip code that much better.
What’s that you say? Washington has so many monuments and memorials that are so historic? Yes, it does, but all those cavernous halls made of pristine marble seem a little cold to me. All of the monuments and memorials make me think that Washington doesn’t want to be touched by anyone. Besides, “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written at Fort McHenry, and to me our little piece of history is more personable and patriotic.
I love Baltimore because it’s not pristine like D.C. It’s gritty, tough and a little unkempt. Us Baltimoreans eat our steamed crabs, drink our Natty Boh, have our HonFest and swear at the referees during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Our Charm City may not be as global and refined as our southern cousin, but the inclusive laid-back feel of Baltimore is what makes the city more than a destination. It’s what makes the city a home.
Maggie Cassidy is a sophomore English major. She can be reached at maggie.a.cassidy@gmail.com.
