Historic Annapolis

Join Historic Annapolis at the 10th annual Blazers . Bourbon . Cigars!  Connect with a wide network of influential men – the region’s top business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and visionaries representing our diverse community – in the picturesque William Paca Garden. While you network, enjoy bourbon, whiskey, and other fine liquor tastings, premium cigars, and delightful food from the area’s top chefs. This popular annual fundraiser supports Historic Annapolis and our mission to Preserve . Protect . Connect. 21+ only. Event is held rain or shine.

Stop by Hogshead on Saturday, September 30, and you’ll find out how laundry was done in the 1800’s! Meet our presenter, Roberta Perkins, and learn about Maria Maynard, a free African American laundress who worked in Annapolis before the Civil War. See wooden tubs, washboards, irons, soap and see what it took to complete this laborious chore in the 19th century. Visitors can participate in washing small pieces of clothing! Cost: Free ($5 suggested donation)

Join us for a special autumn workshop on the Paca House Terrace, presented in partnership with our friends at Homestead Gardens. The afternoon begins with a lecture presented by a Homestead Gardens expert who will share tips on preparing your garden for winter. Participants will then be guided in creating a long-lasting pumpkin succulent centerpiece that is sure to be the star of your seasonal décor! Each guest will take home a Winterizing Your Garden Guide, their handmade pumpkin centerpiece, and a coupon for Homestead Gardens. Advance registration required, space...

Visit the Museum of Historic Annapolis on the second Sunday of every month for Hands-On History Days. Drop in any time during event hours for special family activities – a new theme each month means you and your family will want to visit again and again! Activities are included with Museum admission. In October, drop by the Museum and learn about portrait miniatures.  Long before “selfies,” these mini-portraits were given as tokens of loyalty, friendship and love.    Learn more about these charming mini masterpieces and view some special miniatures...

Drop in and visit the William Paca Garden, a charming respite in the heart of bustling Annapolis. On this day, you’ll encounter the gentry of Annapolis enjoying a garden party, portrayed by the Annapolis Living Historians. Interact with these finely-dressed friends of William & Mary Paca and learn about the foods that were prepared to entertain their distinguished guests in the idyllic garden setting. Advance registration recommended, but not required; program included with admission to the Paca Garden. Please Note: this event is a living history program. Food is not...

In October, experience a spirited tour of the historic William Paca House highlighting tales of the past: sickness, treatments, and mourning rituals. You’ll be guided by candlelight on a special tour focusing on the treatment of diseases, the medical practices of the women of the era, the contributions of the enslaved, the local physicians, and the mourning rituals for their dearly departed. The tour continues in the physic garden to learn about the medicinal plants and their use during the 18th century and beyond. At the end of the tour,...

When Tom Paine, the author of Common Sense, died in June 1809 only a dozen people came to his funeral. This program with University of Maryland historian Dr. Richard Bell examines Paine’s meteoric rise to celebrity status during the American Revolution and his equally dramatic fall from grace in the decades afterwards. Once lionized as our most relatable and revolutionary founding father, Tom Paine died a pariah, too radical and uncompromising for the cautious new country he had called into being. Registration required. Registration closes one half hour prior to...

In October, experience a spirited tour of the historic William Paca House highlighting tales of the past: sickness, treatments, and mourning rituals. You’ll be guided by candlelight on a special tour focusing on the treatment of diseases, the medical practices of the women of the era, the contributions of the enslaved, the local physicians, and the mourning rituals for their dearly departed. The tour continues in the physic garden to learn about the medicinal plants and their use during the 18th century and beyond. At the end of the tour,...

It’s Friday the 13th! But why, exactly, is that something to cause a fright? Join us for a special candlelit experience at the William Paca House & Garden as we tour the home and explore early America’s belief in luck, witches, and magical charms.   Hear how people tried to guide their fate and protect their hearth and home from dangers, both seen and unseen. View a special collection item as you discover the hidden history of the past. Then, enjoy seasonal treats at the conclusion of the program. Advance registration...

It’s Friday the 13th! But why, exactly, is that something to cause a fright? Join us for a special candlelit experience at the William Paca House & Garden as we tour the home and explore early America’s belief in luck, witches, and magical charms.   Hear how people tried to guide their fate and protect their hearth and home from dangers, both seen and unseen. View a special collection item as you discover the hidden history of the past. Then, enjoy seasonal treats at the conclusion of the program. Advance registration...