If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your family, you won’t have to go too far. Southern Maryland has a rich history dating back to the 1600s when John Smith first explored the region. Before that, it was home to the Piscataway Indians. Though the history of the United States of America isn’t always just or pleasant, we can learn so much from the past. Culture and history merge in our favorite five historic sites listed below.
historic sites southern md

Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum

Tucked away in the quiet town of Waldorf, Maryland is the Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum. The building served as a Confederate recruiting station during the Civil War and Dr. Mudd was imprisoned for aiding John Wilkes Booth after he allegedly shot President Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre. In addition to being a notable historic site, this structure also displays an extensive collection of period-specific furniture and art. The house tour is one hour.

Take a guided walking tour of Booth’s route on through the property, including entering Zekiah Swamp. The tour takes about two hours and cover roughly one mile.

Cost

Children under 5 = FREE
Ages 6 to 12 = $2
Ages 13 and Up = $8

Location

3725 Dr. Samuel Mudd Road, Waldorf, MD 20601
Visit their website for further information: http://drmudd.org/

Thomas Stone National Historic Site

In the heart of Charles County is Thomas Stone National Historic Site. This large property was owned by Thomas Stone, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. This is also a preserved plantation house. And it’s protected as a national park, which means no commercial development or residential construction is allowed. Stone fought for certain freedoms but, like many during this time, was party to withholding these rights from women and people of color. Explore this part of our nation’s history at this site. Admission is free!

 

Location

6655 Rose Hill Road
Port Tobacco, MD 20677

Historic Sotterley Plantation

Located in Hollywood, Maryland is the Sotterley Plantation. This preserved plantation shows visitors how wealthy families lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Explore over 15 rooms inside the manor house and outbuildings including kitchen, stable, carriage house, and slave quarters.

Field trips are very hands-on, which the Sotterly staff believes makes for the deepest kind of learning. A variety of speakers discuss topics like the meaning of true freedom, the life of Benjamin Franklin, and even the pirates of Chesapeake Bay.

Cost

Adults = $10
Seniors = $9
Ages 6 to 18 = $6
Children Under 6 = FREE

Location

44300 Sotterley Ln

Hollywood, MD 20636

https://www.sotterley.org/

Reviews

“This site is an amazing place to visit. It tells a very complete story of the people who lived in the Plantation but also the many generations who worked and built [it]. Very well maintained structures beautiful landscapes, interesting gardens, and very informative exhibits. We took a docent tour which gave us a very detailed presentation of the structures, furniture, and detailed history of the people who worked and owned the Plantation. Plan to spend a couple of hours to really see all that [it] has to offer.”

A. Sori

“Sotterly is a place of beauty and peace. The gardens are magical in the spring and summer with bees and butterflies. The farmers’ markets and events are also enjoyable. Great for a single person like myself or a whole family. People who love history will also love it.”

J. Sweeney

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