A “Masked Mystery” at the Maryland Historical Society uncovered by blog readers

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The Maryland Historical Society launched a blog this past September called underbelly. With its vast collection of photographs, maps, recordings and other historical documents, the blog culls through and explores important, and often forgotten items from Maryland’s rich history. Occasionally, as its name suggests, the blog discusses less-than-flattering past events, which continue to reverberate with Marylanders of today. One such entry recently got our attention entitled “Masked Mystery.” In the article, the author introduces a sinister-looking photograph from their archives that has perplexed them for some time.

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Mardi Gras celebrations fling through New Orleans

Mardi Gras celebrations fling through New Orleans

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Perhaps best known today for its drinking and “beads for breasts” activities, the Mardi Gras parade began earlier today around the French Quarter in New Orleans. French for “fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras celebrates the last night of gluttonous celebration before the ritual fasting begins on the Christian holiday Ash Wednesday.

So far this year, Super Bowl Champions Ed Reed and Jacoby Jones were scene walking with the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club. Also this past weekend, parades (perhaps more child-friendly?) were also held in New Orleans that included a bead-throwing Kelly Clarkson two days before winning the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album.

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Opening Day parades, victory parties: How Baltimore celebrated its winning teams over the years

Opening Day parades, victory parties: How Baltimore celebrated its winning teams over the years

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After winning Super Bowl XLVII, the Baltimore Ravens were welcomed back by one of the greatest victory parades in Baltimore history with over 200,000 fans in attendance on Feb. 5.

Look back at past celebrations and Opening Day sports parades. Perhaps, the biggest turnout was on April 15, 1954, when fans welcomed the Baltimore Orioles in their very first season on Opening Day against the White Sox. Over 350,000 fans were said to have shown up for the parade.

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Feb. 11 Photo Brief: Pope Benedict XVI resigns, Pope candidates, prepping for Westminster dog show, European Sauna Marathon

Feb. 11 Photo Brief: Pope Benedict XVI resigns, Pope candidates, prepping for Westminster dog show, European Sauna Marathon

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Pope Benedict XVI resigns top post citing health concerns, a look at potential Pope candidates, prepping for the Westminster dog show, something called the European Sauna Marathon and more in today’s daily brief. | Warning: Photos may depict injury or death.

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The art of glass making

The art of glass making

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The glass glows bright orange as it is heated to 2500 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven’s “glory hole.” Tim McFadden, who has been blowing glass for 12 years, shapes and cools the glass, manipulating it to his vision. He uses a blowpipe as he slowly spins the hot liquid glass and expertly molds the colorful mass.

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