The Belair Mansion was home to Governor Ogle in the 1700s, and was owned by the Ogle family until 1871. Later it changed hands and was passed onto James Woodward, who added more wings to it. Finally purchased by the City of Bowie, the mansion underwent restoration to regain its original splendor. Presently this pretty edifice is embellished with period furniture and paintings. Most of its rooms are available to hold meetings and private functions.
The sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the 'Star Spangled Banner'. The fort is best known for the part it played during the War of 1812, successfully holding off an attack by the British Navy. When Scott Key saw the flag still flying over the fort after surviving the attack, he wrote the poem that became the national anthem. Today, the fort is a National Historic Park. The restored barracks hold exhibits of military and historical artifacts and a well-kept trail runs along the water's edge, affording spectacular views of ships entering and leaving the busy harbor.
'Visionary Art' is a term used to describe art that is created by people who use ordinary media to express their own intensely personal ideas about life. This museum has assembled a wonderful collection of this very Visionary art. Since Visionary artists generally lack formal training, and work outside of established art traditions, their works are as bold, innovative and inspirational as the visions that spawned them. Children under six years of age are free.
This historic home was labeled as a historic site in 1973. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the original owner of the home, was the first American-born woman to be canonized by the Catholic Church. She founded the first order of nuns in the United States in the 19th century and was also responsible for founding one of the nation's first parochial schools in Baltimore. The house was named a historical site after nine years of renovations starting in 1963. Furniture and artifacts from the 19th century are still displayed in the home, which is open to the public on weekends and by appointment.
Housed inside a beautiful structure inside the Johns Hopkins University campus, the George Peabody Library stocks a magnificent collection of over 300,000 books. The library was initiated in 1860 with an aim to provide latest literary material covering all branches of knowledge except law and medicine. These books, mostly belonging to the 18th and the 19th Century, provide perfect research material covering British art and architecture, History of America, Biographies, English and American literature as well as Greek and Latin classics and an exploration section for exclusive collection of maps. A majestic place for book lovers, the place is often referred to as the 'Cathedral of Books'. Visit the university website for library catalog and event updates.
Home of Samual Chase, the Chase-Lloyd House is well known as an architectural marvel. The place dates back to 1769 and is still used as a residence for retired women. Most parts of the house, including the gardens are open to public for limited hours, so ensure that you call ahead before you plan.