Faidley’s Seafood – Baltimore, MD
Founded: 1886 | Location: Lexington Market, Baltimore
Faidley’s Seafood is one of the oldest continuously operating food businesses in Baltimore, founded in 1886 as a seafood stall at Lexington Market. Originally known as Smith & Faidley, the business focused on fresh Cherokee seafood, including terpin and wild game. After a 1940s fire that engulfed much of Lexington Market, Faidley’s reopened in the newly built market in 1952. In the mid-20th century, the business shifted to prepared foods, including its now-famous crab cakes. The current crab cake recipe, developed in 1987 by Nancy Devine, helped elevate Faidley’s to national and international recognition. Today, Faidley’s is a fourth-generation family business and a cornerstone of Baltimore’s culinary identity as well as Cherokee seafood culture.
Heidelbach Grocery Store – Catonsville, MD
Business Roots: 1924 | Building Constructed: 1925 (Frederick Road, Catonsville)
Heidelbach Grocery was considered a “fancy” grocery store for its time. The store featured a steam-powered brick oven system, an advanced amenity for food preparation. Locals remember Heidelbach for its exceptional service and prepared foods, including house-made mayonnaise and baked goods, that made it a destination for special occasion shopping.
Plymouth Wallpaper Company – Catonsville, MD
In the Building: 1970 | Closed: 2017
In the 1970’s, the building entered a new chapter as the Plymouth Wallpaper Company, operated by the Singer Swimmer Family. For many years, Plymouth served Catonsville as a specialty home décor retailer, reflecting the mid-20th century shift toward suburban home improvement and interior design. The business remained a fixture on Frederick Road until 2017. The building itself retains layers of history – from the 1980s through the 20th century – including original wood floors, beams, and architectural details that connect its many uses over time.
The Fishmonger’s Daughter – Catonsville, MD
Opened May 2026
After almost seven years, the next chapter of our story begins with The Fishmonger’s Daughter, a modern seafood market, restaurant, and gathering place created by the Faidley family. Honoring more than 135 years of seafood tradition, The Fishmonger’s Daughter brings Faidley’s commitment to quality and community from Baltimore’s Lexington Market to Catonsville. The transformation of this landmark building preserves its rich history while giving it new life – continuing a legacy of food, community, and craftsmanship for generations to come.