Historic Inns & Famous Homes
of Maryland

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Talbot County

Talbot County on the upper Eastern Shore features many attractions. About 100,000 tourists a year going to St. Michaels stop to see the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, dedicated to preserving the Bay culture, crafts and tools. Easton, the charming capital of Talbot County is a place of historical significance. Named after Ireland's Grace Talbot, it is known as "The Colonial Capital of the Eastern Shore." It grew inward from the water around The Third Haven Meeting House and a court of justice. Originally named Talbot Court House, in 1788, it was renamed Easton. At the Historical Society of Talbot County on S. Washington St., you may journey through three centuries of Tidewater history. The award winning grounds contain the historic house museums of James and Joseph Neall and "End of Controversy," the reproduced 1670 house of religious pioneer Wenlock Christison near the society's archaeological and cultural museum. Call 410-822-0773.

St. Michaels is called the town that fooled the British. When it was being attacked in 1813, the towns people hung lanterns in the tree tops, causing the British to overshoot their mark. Only Cannon Ball House, a 2-1/2 storey brick dwelling was hit in the chimney. This blackout is believed to have been the first in the history of warfare. St. Mary's Square Museum exhibits important items to the local history. One colonial house was patented in 1659.

Oxford, one of the oldest towns in Maryland, was already in existence for perhaps 20 years before its founding in 1683 when it was named by the Maryland General Assembly as a seaport and laid out as a town. In 1694, Oxford and Anne Arundel Town, now Annapolis, were selected the only ports of entry for the province. Until the Revolution, Oxford enjoyed prominence as an international shipping center. Early citizens included Robert Morris, Sr. who greatly influenced the town's growth. Robert Morris, "financier of the Revolution," Jeremiah Banning, hero and statesman, Reverend Thomas Bacon, Anglican clergyman, and Matthew Tilghman, the "patriarch of Maryland" had homes here.

Ellenborough

The first records of Ellenborough, near Oxford Road, date to 1695, when Rebecca Berry inherited the property from her grandfather. It wasn't until 1850 that Matthew Tilghman Goldsborough bought the land and named it Ellenborough. He planted the half-mile drive with maples and the sweeping lawn with a variety of trees, still existing today. Ellenborough remained in the famous Goldsborough family until 1909. In 1928, the Chaplins bought the property and demolished the existing structures to create the present house. Under Henry du Pont's ownership, the house acquired light fixtures, silver chandeliers and sconces of fine detail in the dining room. This is a private residence, not open to the public.

Parson's House

The Parson's House on Morris Street in Oxford was built in 1886 by Edward Parsons for his bride, Margaret E. Stevens. The present owner, Mrs. David Webster, is the grand grand niece of Charles Markland, the distinguished architect who designed the Governor's Mansion in Annapolis. His portrait hangs in the house, which is filled with treasures of three early Oxford families, the Stevens, Marklands and Parsons. Notable are needlework maps and samplers by generations of Stevens and Markland women, including a rare silk embroidered map of Maryland made by Mary Stevens. Margaret Steven's shawl, given to her by her husband as a wedding present, lies in its Oriental bridal box on an antique desk. Edward Parsons was a carver of fine decoys, which he sold near his shop. In the sunny side hallway, you will find many of these decoys and boat models carved by his grandson, Ted Hanks, and water colors by his son, Peter Hanks. This is a private home, not open to the public.

Oxford Inn

Presiding with stately grace at the entrance of Oxford, the Oxford Inn is a landmark for this charming village. At the turn of the century the Oxford Inn was built by F.A. Delahany Overcry as a family grocery. The inn's restaurant called Pope's Tavern, came along when Harry Pope started a waterman's bar there in 1930, well known until the 1970s. In the 80s, the inn was owned by a couple from Wales. Finally in 1989 the inn's present owners renovated the two floors upstairs to make eleven lovely guest rooms and suites. They literally raised the roof to create the third floor rooms, the Dogwood, Dresden and Stuart Hall, Rose Suite, Swarthmore, Tavern Hall and Waverly. Each has a different motif, genuine antiques handmade quilts and period accessories. Next to the glass entrance doors of the restaurant is a boat called a Log Canoe, one of the first boats in America. The design was borrowed from Native Americans. The boat above the coat rack is called a Drake Tail, a work boat.

The dining room to the left of the foyer has an original fireplace and makes a fine private banquet room. The one to the right has a cozy wood burning stove intimate booths and authentic punched tin ceiling. It features fine fare. Enjoy award winning cream of crab soup. A special appetizer might be Mediterranean Shrimp Cocktail. Some starters on the menu are Crab and Shrimp Dip and Mussels with white wine and garlic. Salads include the Harvest with spinach, apples, walnuts and raisins. House specialties are a German Sausage Platter, served with sauerkraut, Lamb Chops with Rosemary Sauce and Homemade Bouillabaisse with Tuscan bread. Chicken breasts might be topped with artichoke hearts and goats cheese, while the Grilled Seafood Skewers include swordfish, scallops and shrimp. The catch of the day is always a delight! The chef's mother prepares homemade desserts such as white chocolate cheese cake or Belgian Chocolate Layer Torte, made in house. On and off premise catering is available. Step back to an era when hospitality was a matter of friendship in comfortable, creative surroundings.

Innkeepers: Lisa and Dan. Large inn, two dining rooms near church. Open 7 days. 9 rooms and suites with private baths, 2 rooms share baths. Continental breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner for the public. No pets. Credit cards, checks, cash. Sailing, fishing, crabbing antiquing, shopping. Waterfowl Festival in November, arts festivals. Oxford Day, last Saturday in April. 6 plays a year at Oxford Community Center. 504 Morris Street, Oxford, MD 21654 PHONE: 410-226-5220
Oxford Inn Web Page

Combsberry Bed and Breakfast

Combsberry Bed and Breakfast on Oxford Neck, one of Talbot county's most unusual vernacular buildings, is now an engaging bed and breakfast. The unusual architecture and decor, including a stair tower, hidden cellar and eight arched fireplaces, represents unique 18th period design. The two and one half storey, five bay main house is framed by a brick wing of the 1870s on the east and a brick wing of the 1930s on the west. The house is laid in English bond except for the main facade which is laid in all-header bond, a feature found elsewhere in Talbot County only at Lloyd's Dostin and Cedar Point. The windows on the first storey have segmental arches and a fanlight, while a semicircular arch surmounts the central main entrance. The land and house are associated with the Oldham and Martin families.

Set among mature magnolias and arching willows on the banks of Island Creek, Combsberry inevitably turns one's focus from history to romance. Here, architecture, decor and setting produce an atmosphere of elegant seclusion. All rooms provide splendid water views and have private baths. Stepping through the sunny brick foyer, one enters a living room, where sprightly floral chintz lends an air of springtime to the first impression. The glow of the original wooden floors chases away winter doldrums and reflects spectacular sunsets on the water. To the right, one finds the library with original paneling, where leather sofas and a tapestry rocker invite reading or chatting by the fire. Hunt scenes grace the walls and the furniture is solid cherry with decorative pillars.

Walking through an archway, hand painted with garlands, we discover the dining room and country kitchen. The most demanding decision of your day might be whether to have a full breakfast in the formal dining room, surrounded by lace covered full length windows or in the cozy cafe setting of this country kitchen's bow windowed alcove. The graceful stair tower, which leads to the bedrooms makes a dramatic overture with its paneled soffit and late 18th century close string balustrade. Cottages are available.

Innkeepers: Dr. and Mrs. Shariff. Living room, garden room, library, family room / kitchen. 2 rooms, one suite, one garden cottage, one carriage house with 2 rooms. Fireplaces and Jaccuzzis. Country breakfast. Cash, checks, Visa. Swimming, fishing, hunting, boating, shopping, dining, golfing, tennis, shopping, antiquing. Oxford Ferry. Near Oxford, Easton, St.Michaels, Spring Arts Festival, Fall Waterfowl Festival. 4837 Evergreen Road, Oxford, MD 21654 Phone: 410-226-5353

Cedar Point

Cedar Point is a large Georgian Revival mansion of the 1920s, incorporating a large 18th century brick plantation house of the Edmondson family, which was remodeled in the mid-19th century by Dr. Joseph R. Price. Situated picturesquely on a bend of the Tred Avon River, it has a porticoed front and lovely sweeping gardens to the shore. An old Osage orange tree, which had been hit by a cannon ball, is still growing on its side with the cannon ball lodged in it. The grounds and garden are of Greek Revival reconstruction and are now at their maturity and especially beautiful. The entry lane is lined with tall Cedars of Lebanon and Atlas Cedars. The grounds abound with many varieties of trees and flowers as well as Boxwoods from England.

The main block is two and one half storeys tall and five bays wide. Its facade is laid out in Flemish bond and is shaded by a large pedimented portico with four fluted columns. Its all-header-bond facade and common-bond brickwork are unusual on the Eastern Shore and are features normally associated with the third quarter of the 18th century. Only a Federal-style mantel and the stair with its massive mahogany newel and maple baluster remain of the original details. President Eisenhower was a frequent visitor at Cedar Point. The important southeast wing may be from the 17th century. It is a one storey three bay dwelling with a modern gable roof. Paneled with the old doors found in the 18th century house, the room is now a cozy library style. Its original door gives out on the lovely gardens where the old osage orange tree lies.

Dr. H. Chandlee Forman suggested in his Old Buildings, Gardens and Furniture in Tidewater Maryland that the small dwelling might have been the 17th century home of John Edmondson, who in 1672 probably hosted George Fox, founder of Quakerism, who in 1682, donated the land for the Third Haven Meeting House in downtown Easton. Charles Todd added the wing that contains the kitchen and dining room. This beautiful home is private and not open to the public.

Harleigh

Harleigh is a beautiful 19th century mansion facing west on Trippe Creek. The land on which it stands was patented September 19, 1663, to Andrew Skinner and was known in the 17th and 18th centuries as "Piney Point." It was part of Colonel Thomas Bozman's property in the early 18th century. Colonel Bozman married Mary Lowe, daughter of Colonel Nicholas Lowe, nephew of Lady Baltimore. Colonel Tench Tilghman and his wife, Henrietta Kerr Tilghman, owned the west Belle Ville parcel. Major renovations were made to the property including a brick wing to the north end, complementing the southern telescoped wing. Remaining in tact are formal gardens of the 1920s. A carpet of daffodils along the entry lane has been embellished with more than 15,000 new bulbs and contiguous fields have been converted to a wetland habitat for migratory birds. This is a private home, not open to the public.

The Ruffled Duck Inn  Bed & Breakfast

The Ruffled Duck Inn Bed & Breakfast in the heart of Oxford gives an enhancement to this historic town by blending upbeat eclectic decor with the traditional architecture.

Dating back to 1876, the inn's ten foot ceilings and wide-planked floors evoke thoughts of that gentile era, yet the new owners have instilled a cheerful, whimsical note. The mandarin orange walls of the foyer offer a bright welcome, echoed by a plush rug in and orange and other happy hues which continue into the parlor with a foil of silver grey contrasting walls. Cerise red with white trim lightens the mood further in the dining room with pure white in the bright sun room, looking out on lovely gardens beyond. Here is a fine morning room for full gourmet breakfasts and teas on certain afternoons. The Nautical library also conveys a serene feeling and offers an assortment of teas and coffees with delectible tidbits for anytime.

Cruising ports the owners enjoyed in their former yachting business are recapped in the names of the guest rooms upstairs, inviting happy dreams. The Savannah Room in burgundy and cream tons with gossamer draperies on the king size bed is reminiscent of southern hospitality. Cruising ports The Cape Cod Room in perwinkle blue with a Queen bed flows into the Nantucket Suite with its signal flags. This arrangement is great for families or two couples who are friends. while the "West Indies Room" with wrought iron canopy draped in shear splendor is perfect for honeymoons. Truly get away from it all in quiet Oxford yet enjoy an adventurous ambience in this fine inn, full or refinement and fun.

INNKEEPERS: Dennis and Joyce Buttner. ADDRESS: 110 N. Morris St. P.O. Box 658, Oxford, MD 21654. PHONE:410-226-5496. ROOMS: four with private baths. CHILDREN: over seven. FEATURES: wireless internet & cable TV. MEALS: Gourmet Breakfasts and occassional afternoon teas. NEARBY: Public beach, tennis, hunting, fishing historic nature tours,< restaurants,kayaking, antiquing, biking, sailing and motor boating.

Link to Ruffled Duck Inn web site

The Snuggery

The Snuggery on Cherry Street is the oldest house in St. Michaels; it was built circa 1665. The original logs, beams and moldings are visible in the two parlors as you step inside. Originally all of the rooms were of logs. The house was moved in 1873 and was purchased as a licensed B & B in 1987. A complete remodeling was done between 1995 and 2000 to bring plumbing, electric, heat and air conditioning up to code, The current owners replaced all the windows to make them double payned. So the house is very snug and comfortable in winter with its healthful radiator heat. The original fireplace has been in one parlor for over three hundred years. A hunting motif may be enjoyed in that parlor with a cheerful red chest, hunt prints and pillows. The innkeeper has collected antique chests from Pennsylvania which grace many of the rooms.The original pines floors glow throughout the house accented by oriental rugs from Pakistan, Persia and Afganistan. The parlor to the right of the door with a brick fireplace leads into a distinquised dining room with antique arniurem table and ladder back chairs. Here excellent gourmet breakfasts are served with delectable homemade breads, egg entrees, fruits, pastries or pancakes created in house.

Upstairs is a cheerful guest room with a beautiful view of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and lighthouse. Gold fixtures in the spring green bath are complemented by diamond shaped tiles and a diagonal shower. The other guest room is elegant and bright also with lovely bedspread, window treatments and a full bath and shower.

The innkeepers have been accommodating guest for many years and can anticipate your needs for special diets and send you to the finest restaurants, which are very close by. You may also enjoy people watching in rocking chairs on the porch as vacationers walk by on their way to the museum. Once you visit, you will want to return just as so many other guests have repeated their pleasant stays over the years.

INNKEEPERa: Phil and Carollee Kennedy. ADDRESS: 203 Cherry Street, P.O. Box 918 St. Michaels, MD.21663. PHONE: 410 745-2800. ROOMS: 2, one with shower and one with bathtub and shower. MEALS: Gourmet breakfasts with fresh baked goods. NEARBY: Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, restaurants, shops, antique stores, boating, golfing and fishing.

The Snuggery web site

The Oaks

The Oaks Bed and Breakfast, located on Rt. 329 at Acorn Lane in Royal Oak near St. Michaels was built in 1748 as a private residence. Its manor house is a showcase of stuctural renewal. The facade retains its antebellum geniality and grace, but the entire inn has been renovated with comfort and ease in mind for guests.

At the turn of the century, guests arrived by steamship or train to enjoy the bounty and tradition of the Eastern Shore. The halls seem to echo with memories of visits to the Pasadena Inn, its former name, and are even thought to be haunted by a friendly innkeeper who is said to check guest rooms, adjusting lights as she goes along.

Ten acres of tranquil waterfront on Oak Creek off the lovely Miles River lie just beyond your windows at the Oaks. Your airconditioned guest room is appointed with antiques and details authentic to the 18th century. Queen or king-sized beds add to your comfort along with jacuzzi tubs, gas fireplaces, television, telephones and private porches from most rooms. The beautifully landscaped grounds of The Oaks offer a wide variety of outdoor activities in a relaxing setting. Refresh with a dip the swimming pool, bicycle, fish or crab off the dock or just relax in the comfortable common rooms, verandas or boat house. Other diversions include canoeing, shuffleboard, volleyball, badminton and horseshoes. Innkeeper Heather Maloney and Executive Chef Shawn Maloney invite you to enjoy a "Chef's Choice" hot entree and breakfast buffet in the sunny, waterfront dining room or take coffee and paper outside to embrace an Eastern Shore morning after a restorative night's rest.

Take a ferry ride from Bellevue just down the road to historic and serene Oxford. Shop or dine in Easton or watch log canoe racing in St. Michaels.

INNKEEPERS: Heather and Shawn Maloney. ADDRESS: P.O. Box 187, Royal Oak, Md. 21662. PHONE: 410 745-5053. ROOMS: all with private baths. Weddings and conferences welcomed. MEALS. breakfast buffet or entree. NEARBY: Shopping, restaurants and galleries of Easton, St. Michaels and Oxford.

The Oaks Website

Aida's Victoriana Inn

The Victoriana Inn gives you the best St. Michaels has to offer. Its style typifies the architecture of this historic town. It is situated next to the harbor and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, just two blocks from the main street of St. Michaels with its quaint shops and fine restaurants.

Located on a full acre, the Victoriana Inn is removed from the bustle of town, and guests can enjoy the splendid bayside ambience. Two porches are filled with comfortable wicker furnishings. Relax on the spacious lawn or enjoy the view from the sunroom picture windows.

Innkeeper, Aida Khalil. Address, 205 Cherry St. St. Michaels, MD 21663. Phone, 410 745-3368 or 1 888 316-1282. Rooms, some with full beds, some with queen size, all with private baths, most have harbor views, three have fireplaces. The Junior Suite features a grand private deck, queen size poster bed, private TV and island ceiling fan. Meals, full breakfast from 8:30 am. Nearby: Shops restaurants, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting.

Aida's Victoriana Inn Web Site

Old Brick Inn and Kemp House

The Old Brick Inn is a magical place of sumptuous beauty where you can totally relax and unwind. An English country garden to one side contains a swimming pool and hot tub near the Carriage House. Constructed in 1985 on the site of the original carriage house, it has four lovely rooms, one of which is handicapped accessible with a roll-in shower.

The main house, circa 1816, faces directly on Talbot Street and is a fine example of Federal Style architecture, built by shipwright Wrightson Jones as a private residence. One bedroom looks out on the street on the first floor and seven rooms are upstairs. All have been completely refurbished. Enjoy the English Garden Room in greeen and gold with Jacuzzi, fireplace and balcony, overlooking the pool. Some beds are graced with tapestry or brocade comforters and most rooms contain working fireplaces and antiques. The Chesapeake Suite runs the entire length of the house and is the wedding suite. Breakfast is served in the room here and amenitities are more than elegant.

Small weddings are accommodated in this inn as well as dinners for six or more. The owners have a wine license and wine dinners occur once every quarter in the two dining rooms. In the cozy common room, teas and coffee are available.

The owners have also remodeled the Kemp House Inn nearby on Talbot Street. It dates back to 1807 and was restored to those times in 1982 after having been a private home. Colonel Joseph Kemp set the foundations after fighting in the Revolutionary War. He returned to St. Michaels as a shipwright and after he fought in the War of 1812, the inn stayed in his family and was visited by Robert E. Lee and other important men. Most rooms have working fireplaces, and all have private baths with showers. The inn is romantic with modern luxuries and comfortable beds now available. The Key West cottage nearby is a favorite of honeymooners who enjoy breakfast on the porch or patio and stay at slightly lower rates than that of the Old Brick Inn.

INNKEEPERS: Robert Brown and Brim Cathell. ADDRESS: 401 Talbot Street. P.O. Box 987, St. Michaels. PHONE 410 745-3323. FAX: 410 745-3323. MEALS: Full breakfast, dinners for six or more, wine dinners, small weddings. CHILDREN: over five in rooms with twin beds, under five in cottage only. PETS: No. NEARBY: Boating, antiquing, shopping, fine dining, museums, and gallery exploring.

Maple Hall

Just four miles from shopping and dining in exciting St. Michaels rises Maple Hall, a Shore Tradition for over one hundred years under the consis tent ownership of the Cockeys and Cooks - four generations of the same family. Lovely lawns rolling down to Tilghman Creek offer spectacular views and slips for entrance by boat.

Ten guest rooms, all with private entrances and baths afford gracious amenities. Homemade cookies and breakfast treats as well as soups in the fall and winter and homemade ice cream spoil all of the guests with a feeling of coming home to the country.

The one downstairs room is handicap accessible and conveniently located near the spacious living room with cozy double-view fireplace, looking into a dining room which seats 12 to 14 for breakfast or special luncheons. Here is displayed a collection of baseball memorabilia from the owner's great grandfather, Oriole star Sam Trott as well as stunning swords, dating back to the 13th century. Further down a hallway a kitchen and family room make life home-like for longer staying guests.

On the second floor is an elegant suite for bridal or family use with a day bed and sitting room, while another offers a Jacuzzi. One second floor room in blue willow china hues looks out on a terrace and beautiful view down to the water. Still another room offers twin beds.

Genuine antiques oringinal to the inn, circa 1860, strike a note of authenticity and each room has its own temperature controls for heat and air conditioning. Luxury and convenience are truly yours at charming Maple Hall, a perfect country inn for your wedding or family reunion.

INNKEEPERS: Rick and Penny Cook Rhine. ADDRESS: 23253 Mapel Hall Road, Claiborne MD 21624. PHONE (410) 745-2673. E-MAIL: stay@maplehall.com. ROOMS: 10 with private entrances and baths. MEALS: Continental breakfast featuring fresh fruits and home baked goods Mon - Sat. Full country break fast on Sun. Special meals by reservation. NEARBY: Cheasapeake Bay Maritime Museum, Tilghman Island Days (Oct.) Waterfowl Festival (Nov.), Fall and Christmas in St. Michaels, shopping dining, hunting, sailing, fishing biking, kayaking and just plain relaxing.

www.maplehall.com

Inn at 202 Dover

Built in 1874, The Inn at 202 Dover is one of the most historically significant homes in Easton. For years the building was known as the Wrightson House, thanks to its early 20th century owner, Charles T. Wrightson, one of the founders of the S&W canned food empire. Locally, it is ofen called Captain's Watch, due, no doubt, to its balustraded widow's walk. A classic example of early 20th century Colonial Revival style, the inn also features Beaux Arts, Gothic and Queen Anne design elements. The columned entrance pavilion and leaded glass fanlight and sidelights frame the front door, while nine dramatic dormers ring the exterior of the third floor. Many original interior details include eleven foot ceilings, plaster moldings, a hand-carved mantle and staircase, oak and white pine floors and an exquisite mosaic tiled foyer floor. Also original to the house are a seven foot Victorian mahogany and gilt Pier mirror and a crystal and brass chandelier. The inn's arduous renovation by owners, Ronald & Shelby Mitchell, was acknowledged by the Maryland Historical Trust and the U.S. Department of the Interior. The Mitchell's commitment to historical accuracy was viewed on the 2006 Maryland House & Garden Pilgrimage Tour and may be enjoyed by inn and restaurant guests.

An enchanting, sunny music room, graced by a grand piano greets guests in an ambiance of luxurious ease to the right of the foyer after the charming library with its collection of Hummels. To the left of the foyer, the elegant dining room leads into the sunfilled conservatory with a French suite in a blue and white motif beyond. The airjet bathtub is crowned by the gold faucet fiqurine of an orchestra conductor, and each private bath on the floor above has similar whimsical fixtures. The Asian Suite boasts a gold dragon for example, while the Safari Suite's sink is supported by two regal elephants. The Victorian Suite may be engaged in tandem with the English Room for two couples or a family with two private baths. Beautifully detailed dollhouse and dioramas, meticulously crafted by Shelby Mitchell, are on display throughout the inn. The professionally landscaped grounds include herb and perennial gardens, a secret garden with fountain and a pergola.

A restaurant quality caterer's kitchen makes the Inn the perfect venue for weddings, family gatherings, conferences and fundraising events as well as regular dining with Executive Chef Jorge Alverez creating innovative cuisine. Be certain to experience the sophisticated and magical delights of this gracious inn.

INNKEEPERS: Ron and Shelby Mitchell. ADDRESS: 202 Dover STreet, Easton. PHONE: 1-866-450-7600 410-819-8007 ROOMS:Four suites, two with fireplaces and one en suite bedroom, all with private baths. MEALS: Breakfast and dinner. CHILDREN: none under 16. PETS: no. COMMON ROOMS. library, conservatory, parlor, music room and dining room. NEARBY: Walk to shops, restaurants, galleries Academy of Arts Museum and Avalon Theater. Sailing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, golfing, biking and antiquing.

Inn at 202 Dover

John S. McDaniel House Bed and Breakfast

The John S. McDaniel House Bed & Breakfast, circa 1865, is a bright, welcoming Queen Anne style Victorian home in the historic district of Easton. The owners since 1999 completely restored the house in 2006 after a devastating fire. Fortunately, the original mantels, hardware, doors and moldings have been saved and rosettes over the doors have been restored. To the right of the front hall, the parlor is always tranquil in Sheridan green with cheerful red leather sofa and chairs and is a fine place to socialize or play cards. A new snack center in the dining room is stocked with beverages and many homemade treats. A gourmet breakfast is served here as well.

The five guest rooms have been redecorated with attention to detail, making each room period accurate. The Augusta Tilghman Room is festive in green and red with a tower window and a bath with claw foot whirlpool tub and shower, while the Robert Lloyd Tilghman Room is in Victorian country style with a gorgeous antique armoire and bed plus a charming alcove, looking out on the street below. European accents such as Italian paintings and French chairs distinguish this suite. The Reverend Henry Lay Room is a wedding suite with a beautifully scalloped white bed, side tables, armoire and chairs. Its sitting area looks out on the lovely gardens, bird feeder and fountain. All the private baths offer towel warmers and most have whirlpool tubs.

The owners added the New Nanny Room which is cozy with its dormers and bath up a few steps at the back of the house. Two Pavillion Suites in navy and gold on the third floor have an Oriental slant with a red iron bed and lacquered tables. Most roooms offer working gas fireplaces and ceiling fans and all are air conditioned. This is a comfortable and delightful inn near all of the cultural attractions of Easton.

INNKEEPERS: Mary Lou and Fran Karwacki. ADDRESS: 14 North Aurora St., Easton, Md. 21601. PHONE 410 822-3704 or 1 877 822-5701, ismcdanielhouse@netscape.net. ROOMS: six. MEALS: snacks and gourmet breakfasts. CHILDREN: yes PETS: no. Waterfowl package: special group rate of $199 per room, 3 full gourmet breakfasts and Friday night opulent reception. NEARBY: great restaurants, unique shops, Academy of Art, Historical Society, biking, antique shops.

McDaniel House Web Site

Cherry Street Inn

The charming Cherry Street Inn is just a block from Talbot Street, the main street of historic St. Michaels. This is a Victorian home built in the 1880's by Edward N. Dodson, a prominent steamboat captain. Recent downstairs renovations revealed remnants of a second foundation, where another older structure once occuped the location of the current house. Since Frederick Douglass moved to St. Michaels as a teenage slave in 1833 and lived in a house near the intersection of Talbot and Cherry Streets, the current owners are researching to see if their home may be the one in which the famous orator lived.

During portions of the 20th century, the home was configured into a four-apartment dwelling. The house was restored by previous owners to retain much of its original integrity from the door casing and molding to the wide plank yellow pine flooring. The exterior still has the majority of its glass windows, decorative eave brackets and German siding in the traditional Victorian style. The bay window on the front facade and the two-story pavilion on the west add variety to the architecture. The front parlor is graced by elegant window treatments, a Queen Anne chair and twin chairs facing a fireplace with a lovely needlepoint fire screen near the door to the dining room. Here, a large antique table and priceless portraits evoke times gone by. This room leads into a spacious sunroom with French doors, giving out upon a beautiful garden and serving as a fine common room for guests.

The guest room near the front door is called the Red Chesapeake Room because of its classic rose toile draperies and comforter on the Eastlake style bed. It is complemented by a gracious sitting room with minifridge. Families may be accommodated here. Upstairs is the pristine Blue and White Suite with a large four poster crowned by pineapples, the symbol of the cordial hospitality you will enjoy in this delightful inn. A sitting room and private bath lend more luxury to this suite while a nearby verandah overlooks the town. The inn is only two blocks from the water, and one can see the Maritime Museum and light house from its entrance. A garage in the garden area holds your canoes and bikes. The owners have eight years of experience in welcoming guests for many repeated visits.

OWNERS: Jane and Greg Virgil. ADDRESS: 103 Cherry St., St.Michaels, MD. 21663. PHONE: 410 745-6309. MEALS: Full gourmet breakfast. ROOMS: Two Suites. NEARBY: Boating, shopping, fine dining. Museum, art galleries. golfing, and fishing.

Cherry Street Inn

Tilghman Island

Tilghman Island awaits you in serene tranquility, a quaint waterman's island, between the Bay and the Choptank River. You can completely relax, enjoying the unspoiled natural beauty of the island.

Go on a sailing excursion in the home of the largest fleet of skipjacks in the nation. First charted by Captain John Smith in 1608, the island has been inhabited by brave men and women who pioneered the seafood business.

The name Tilghman Island was derived in 1775 by owner Matthew Tilghman. The island suffered a substantial loss of resources in the War of 1812. Steamboat service was established in 1890, and travelers were escorted by horse drawn vehicles, a service now offered by vans. Many accommodations are luxurious and cordiality awaits you everywhere.

Sinclair House

The Sinclair House invites you to enjoy Bed and Breakfast at tits best with a local waterman's family. After a full country breakfast with homemade goodies, catch the breeze from the front porch. Play tennis, ride bikes, fish, crab or walk around our quaint watermen's village. Then enjoy seafood at tour local restaurants. Later just relax int he living room where you will find memorablilia from the captain's years ont eh Skipjack Martha Lewis.

Each of the four guest rooms has its own special country decor with private bath.

Within walking distance you'll discover unique antique shops and the town dock where the skipjacks are moored. These vessels comprise one of the last commercial oyster sailing fleets in the world. The watermen still harvest their shellfish using traditional methods.

Other historic towns, St. Michaels, home of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, Oxford and Easton are close by.

Come and enjoy our warm, comfortable inn and local hospitality. We hope to see you soon.

Sinclair House 5718 Black Walnut Point Rd. P.O Box 145 Tilghman Island 21671; Phone (410) 886-2147 or 888-859-2147 Innkeepers: Deenie and Woodie Tyler Rooms: 4 Rates: moderate.
Sinclair House WebPage

The Lazyjack Inn "a welcome reprieve from the ordinary".

For 160 years this comfortable old house has watched over the waters of Dogwood Harbor. As our guest, you will experience the same views and share a sense of history you won't soon forget.

The Lazyjack Inn is located in the village of Tilghman Island, home of the last working sailing fleet in the country. Several fine restaurants and antique shops are within walking distance of the inn. A tour of the island will allow you to experience the old and the new, from world class yachts to one hundred year old sailing ships.

The Lazyjack Inn Harbour Room with French doors, over looks the harbor and presents the ideal view, as you enjoy breakfast or relax in the sitting area. The outside deck is the perfect place to sit and 'ease off' after a full day of sailing or exploring the island. Jaccuzzis and fireplaces await.

Your days at the Lazyjack Inn begin with the finest breakfast fare imaginable, featuring a special 'entree of the day', accompanied by fruits, juice, freshly baked specialties, coffee and a varied selection of teas. Special dietary needs are cheerfully accommodated.

Relax with your favorite book in the Harbor Room, or claim a rocker on the old fashioned porch while enjoying the tranquil breezes off the Chesapeake Bay.

The owners' Yacht Lady Patty is available for sails daily from Knapps Narrows Marina into the Bay and Choptank River. Experience the bronze and teak beauty of the 45' classic Bay ketch, built in 1935. Champagne sunset sails are our specialty.

The Lazyjack Inn, 5907 Tilghman Island Road, P.O. Box 248, Tilghman, Md. 21671, (410)886-2215 800 690-5080 INNKEEPERS Mike and Carol Richards, ROOMS 4, MEAL full country breakfast, No children or pets RATES moderate High season 4/11-ll/15, FEES Visa/Mastercard, personal checks.
Lazy Jack Inn Web Page

Harrison's Chesapeake House

Ten years after the guns of the Civil War fell silent, Harrisons Chesapeake Inn entertained their first guests. With over a century of cordial hospitality behind it, the old country inn on Tilghman Island has gained acclaim far and wide for its excellent sports fishing, fine lodging and delicious seafood, served family style.

Family interest has been a key word for five generations of Harrisons at the Chesapeake House. Four generations still operate the house. Miss Alice of the second generation was the real thrust to bring this business to fruition, based upon her mouth-watering recipes and untiring devotion. The third generation includes Levin F. III (Buddy) and his perennially young wife Roberta L. (Bobbie), while the 4th generation is comprised of their sons, Levin F. IV (Bud) and Charles R. Harrison (Chuck). Bud and Leslie's children are Levin V (Beau) and Brook Andrew. Chuck and Judy's boys are Charles Preston (Chase), Bryce Thomas and Hunter Landon, composing the 5th generation.

The Harrison's 16 boat charter fleet has become the largest privately owned fishing fleet in the nation, and the inn has gained renown for comfortable lodging and fine fare. The oldest portion was built in 1856. Dine overlooking the famous Choptank River, scene of James A. Michener's Chesapeake at abundant breakfasts, lunches and dinners or catered banquets. Relax on the crab deck or lounge at the motel and pool.

The tradition began in the 1890's when the only water transportation to Baltimore was by steam boat, and Captain Levin F. (Buddy) Harrison Sr. was a captain in the summers. After docking in Baltimore, he would be asked if there might be some place not he shore where city dwellers could escape the heat. Buddy's grandmother, Ida, a school teacher, didn't teach in the summer. So, her husband started to bring boarders, mainly ladies and children, who left whenever the steamboat came back up the Bay. They were always picked up and delivered back to the boat by horse and buggy driven by Levin F. Harrison, Jr.

Nit he early 1900's, the men started coming with their families, but weren't content to just sit in the swings, thus, the fishing business evolved. Then, after the Bay Bridge was built in the 50's, the Baltimore fishing customers started driving their families to enjoy the Harrison's famous seafood. Buddy says that this was the beginning of their restaurant business.

He also advises that all dinners are made to order and that if you're in a hurry, just ask for those items that take the least time. With his easy smile, he says, "Remember, the difference between eating and dining is only a short wait."

Pass around fresh vegetables, apple sauce and homemade bread. Then try the house specialty, crisp fried chicken and large moist crab cakes. The Harrisons have almost always been in the seafood business. Looking out the tall windows of the Chesapeake House, while eating luscious, plump oysters brought in on skipjacks that day, we watch and remember to savor every moment. Since it takes much time and work to catch and prepare fine seafood, we should appreciate these gifts of nature and human patience. The Harrisons hope that you will relax with them because they love to pleas and see smiling faces. Buddy phrases it, saying: "Find peace in a violent world; go fishing and make friends". He wrote the following: "These days Harrison's Chesapeake House, overlooking the famous Choptank River, is a pleasant blend of the old and new Skipjacks are tied up alongside sleek charter and pleasure boats just outside the window of the dining room. Traditional crab cakes share the menu with the finest prime rib. The informal dining room features many tables by the windows and an inviting fireplace. Service is casually efficient and the food is just wonderful!" For reservations, call (410) 886-2121.

Harrison's Chesapeake House Black Walnut Point Rd. P.O. Box 310 Tilghman, Md. 21671 Phone: (410)886-2121 Innkeepers: Buddy and Bobbie Harrison Full breakfast, lunch and dinner, motel, pool, country inn Rates: moderate.
Chesapeake House Web Page

St. Mary's Square Museum

This small frame building was moved to St. Mary's Square in the 1960's from a site on land originally patented to John Hollingsworth in 1659. Constructed of timbers hewn with a broadax and joined with mortise-and-tenon, tenon, it is a fine example of early, construction techniques in the St. Michaels Michaels area.

Behind the two part house is a one-story frame hyphen and a three-bay "teetotal building. This structure derives its name from its resemblance to an old-fashioned top. This addition was built in the 1860's and moved from Willow Street. (Where Land and Water Intertwine, Christopher Weeks)

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