Quarry Watch - Family Friendly

Digging a big hole at the beach is a rite of passage for most kids. Come visit the ultimate in big holes at the Martin-Marietta Quarry in Texas, MD. This massive pit, one-mile long and half-mile wide, was the source of marble that built the walkway to the Capitol in Annapolis and the portico for St. Paul’s Cathedral in NYC. Our Washington Monument in Baltimore is made from it and a section of the Washington Monument in D.C. But the history of this quarry goes back to 1802 and some of the first Irish immigrants to the region. On this tour, let’s watch the heavy equipment dig and haul while discovering the stories of those immigrants.

The tour is stationed at a scenic overlook above the quarry. Bring your binoculars and a lawn chair if you like to watch the equipment in comfort. We will learn the history of the quarry, including past and current ownership, and information on daily operations. The quarry tour is 1.5 hours long. The March 15 date is a no-school day for both Baltimore County schools.

• You are required to sign a Hold Harmless Agreement with Martin-Marietta to be on the property.
• Everyone is invited to attend, including children ages 5 and up.
• Proper outdoor etiquette is required.  No climbing, running, or loud voices. Be respectful of our speakers with good listening skills.
• Families are welcome to leave the tour at any time.
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• You may take as many photos as you like.
• You may bring binoculars to see further away areas (the span is over 1 mile across).
• You may bring lawn chairs or a stool if needed.
• Please bring water/hydration and a hat if needed to shade from some sun. The area is well-shaded but sometimes can get sunny.
• When registering your children, please add them as your guest at the reduced price.

In case of inclement weather, this tour will be canceled since the tour is outdoors. Detailed driving directions on where to meet will be emailed five days prior to the trip.

All admission fees are considered a donation to NHSM to cover our administrative costs. If you cannot donate at this time, please register under the Education For All heading. If you previously registered, paid, and would like a refund, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.