Digging holes seems like child’s play. But not when you’re the crew at Martin Marietta’s Texas Quarry. Their hole isn’t measured in feet, but rather miles: a mile long and a half mile wide, to be exact. This massive pit was the source of marble that was used to build the walkway to the Capitol in Annapolis and the portico for St. Paul’s Cathedral in NYC. Our Washington Monument in Baltimore and a section of the Washington Monument in D.C. are also made from Texas marble. The history of this quarry goes back even further to 1802 and 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.
We will learn the history of the quarry, including past and current ownership, and information on daily operations. This tour is based on a scenic overlook above the quarry. From there, we can view the equipment at work in the distance. There is no public access to the quarry pit or the operations since it is a working job site. The crew is working about a mile away — binoculars are recommended for closer viewing.
Please note
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- When you arrive, all must sign a Hold Harmless Agreement with Martin Marietta to be on the property.
- Everyone aged 5 years and older is welcome to attend.
- Proper outdoor etiquette is required. No climbing, running, or loud voices. Be respectful of our speakers by demonstrating good listening skills.
- Families are welcome to leave the tour at any time if needed.
- Photos are welcome.
- Bring binoculars to see the trucks working across the pit. It is over a mile wide.
- Picnic tables are available for seating. You may bring lawn chairs.
- There is no walking except from the parking lot to the viewpoint. No one has access to the interior of the operation except personnel.
In case of inclement weather, this tour may be canceled by Martin-Marietta, and you will be notified by NHSM. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Martin-Marietta offers this trip for groups only, not individuals. Please consider our registration fees as a donation to NHSM to cover administrative costs.
NEW Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:-
NHSM Members: $7
Guest names must be listed on your family membership to qualify for this discount. Extra adults with individual memberships should register independently. - Non Members: $10
- Education for All: $3