A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society
XXXVNumber 1 January-February2006
I rvrRnlerrRnouse uuseuut i (Homeof the PrinceGeorge's CountyH istorical Society) ?tb /ru ?n 760 /antlq. , .
FacilityManager: Susan Wolfe While researchingthe Duvall family genealogy,I often 5626 BellStation Road wonder how people met or where their namescame from. One GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 301-464-5291 questionI hadwas, how did EdmundBryce DuVal ll who was born TTY 301-699-2544 in PrinceGeorge's County and educatedin maleboarding schools (Off Route193, near Route in Baltimore,Montgomery County and Alexandria,VA meet his 450)A facilityof the Maryland- wife CarolineDonaldson Lansdale from HarfordCounty. Edmund NationalCapital Parkand and Carolinehad 11 children,most with very familiar family names: PlanningCommission) Lansdale,Katherine Moylan, Augusta Caroline,Gabriel, Philip MariettaHouse Tours Lansdale,Edmund Bryce lll, GabriellaAugusta, Mary Frances Friday,11 am to 3 pm and then there is Cornelia.Where did that come from? Well, Saturdayand Sunday,12 noon informationabout Caroline'sgrandmother provided answers to to4pm bothquestions. Weekdayand eveningtours by appointmentonly Cornelia Van Horn Lansdale(1758-1853) MariettaHouse Gift Shop Manager:Stella Uber Corneliawas marriedto MajorThomas Lancaster Lansdale 301-464-0590 of Hazelwood,Prince George's County. OpenFriday, 11 am to 3 pm, Saturdayand Sunday, 12 noon Theirson WilliamMoylan Lansdale married Eliza Catherine to4pm Moylan. Their daughterCaroline Donaldson Lansdale married (alsoopen during special EdmundBryce DuVal ll in 1846. events) Additionalfamily ties: Thomas and Cornelia'sdaughter FrederickS. DeMarrLibrary of Violetta,William Moylan Lansdale's sister married Samuel Sprigg CountyHistorv who served as Governor of Maryland.And GabriellaAugusta Historian:Susan G. Pearl DuVal who married Marion Duckett had a daughternamed 301-464-0590 Violetta!And OpenSaturday, 12 noonto 4 pm genealogy LectureSeries: lcan easilysee how can be an obsession,one bit of informationleading to another.The earliercenturies' tradition of usingfamily names in succeedinggenerations certainly helps us to make connectionsand to discoverfamily ties. lwonder if 21"t centurytraditions will follow suit or go theirown way.
SusanWolfe M??fuitcgb... 74o qcterob &a&/ ?aleta.l Sactd" Theextraordinary landmark changes brought 5626 BellStation Road aboutby the urbanizationof the countyin the 1940s GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 was the subjectof this columnin the last issue. lt Phone:301-464-0590 shouldbe notedthat urbanizationwas alsoon the Email:[email protected] or mindsof ourforefathers a full300 yearsago. ln the [email protected] GeneralAssembly session in 1706 and again in Website.www. pg history.org 1707the establishmentof sixtowns was directedto join the new county'sonly urban center- Charles President: John Petro Town. UpperMarlboro, Nottingham, Queen Anne Vice President:JamesWolfe and MillTown on the Patuxentand Piscatawayand Secretary: DustyRhoads Aire (Broad Creek) on the Potomac side of the Treasurer: DonnaSchneider countywere ordered to befounded. Upper Marlboro Historian SusanG. Pearl grewthe quickestas it was locatedin the partof the Editor. JudySchneide r (410-721 -2183 countywhich was, then, in the mostdensely settled and/orpanamfa@comcast. net) partof PrinceGeorge's. Mill Town was the onlyone Membership: DonnaSchneider and Anna of the six that failedto develop;the others,except Holmes UpperMarlboro, failed to flourishas the Assembly Directors:Anna Holmes, Lynn Roberts, had envisioned.The county'surban and suburban Andrew Waflace, William Uber, Joyce Dowling, developmentalong the post road (Route1) in the Wallis Cain, ElizabethDougherty, Hannah Cox 18thcentury, along rail lines in the 19thcentury and CharlesHendricks, and DanLouck along roadwaysin the 20thcentury certainly would Newslettercontributors: Susan G. Pearl, have been shockingto those legislatorsof 300 John Petro, Jim Wolfe, Susan Wolfe, Donna yearsago. The innerbeltway population and growth Schneider,and JudySchneider of Bowie and Laurelcertainly outpaced what any Printer.MinuteMan Press , 410-451-0218 urbandesigners could have imaginedin the 18th, to mid 20h centuries. 1dhor early All members of the Prince George'sCounty part Todaythese mandated sites of 1706 are HistoricalSociety are invited and welcome to attend of the "ruraltier" which 21't century leaders also see Society board meetings. We meet at the Marietta as ripe for development. The eastern and Mansionone Saturdayeach month at 9:30am - January southwesternparts of the county are increasingly 14,February 11, March 4 andApril 8. (Datesare subject envisioned as necessary sites for new urban to change. Callto confirmthe dateif you wouldlike to planning.Will the visionof the legislatorsof yore attend.) come to fruitionin the nextfew decadesor will the News & Nofes is publishedsix times a year. print questionof urbandevelopment be posedfor this You are invitedto submit a relevantarticle for (subjecttospace limitations). The deadline forthe March- areaagain, three centuries hence? Apriledition is March15. lf you would like to volunteeryour time and talentsto the HistoricalSociety in any capacity,please call us. We'd love to have you join us. All ages are Tiarci 7/.t* ftmaoul definitelywelcome! tdlro4b &a4e you for The PGCHSwould like to saythank again HappyNew Year andwelcome to the first Newsand yourgenerous donation to the Societythis year. Nofes issuefor 2006. As promised,you shouldbe receiving this earlyin January,rather than in Februaryas in pastyears. E"U r'eneg The calendaron Page6 gives you a widechoice of thingsto PetroDesign/Build, Inc. do on a coldwinter's day. Checkit out,and alsoour website, plus rlww.pgparks.com. 'odd' 8a*qe -4er/o/ I am oneof the peoplewho useWordPerfect, so HannahC. Cox I convertWord articlesfor this newsletter.Anyone who does DesignInc. this knowsthat at timesit is notthe easiestthing in the world Craftworks to do. lf you submitan articleto me,it would be a hugehelp if Edwardand EvamariaHawkins youcould type it intwo columns, ratherthan one, and also fully ThomasV. MikeMiller, Jr. P.A. justifythe margins,along with using the font "Ariel". And if you BarbaraM. Murphy too haveWordPerfect, then pleasesubmit your articleusing that. Every get you Robinson& Associates.lnc. littlebit helps the newsletterto fasterand moreaccurately. Thanks! Judy Statnuc ?,lpdatp
On 29 November2005, the PrinceGeorge's County Council adopted four CouncilBills that will strengthenthe County'sHistoric Preservation Ordinance and revisethe compositionof the HistoricPreservation Commission (HPC). Withinthat week,the four billswere approved andsigned by CountyExecutive Jack B. Johnson.
Until the passageof CB-83-2005,the HPC was made up of nine members,each representingeither a specificorganization or a specificarea of expertise.With the approValof CB-83,the compositionof the HPCwill be slightlychanged: the ninemembers will now include three with "a demonstratedspecial interest, specific knowledgeor professionalor academic trainingin suchfields as history,architecture, architectural history, archeology, anthropology, agricultureand historicpreservation;" three other memberswill representthe fields of commerce,realty, municipalgovernance, community associations, building/preservation restoration,home building, and law;the remainingthree will specificallyrepresent the Minority BuildingIndustry Association, the Boardof Realtors,and the PrinceGeorge's County Historical & CulturalTrust.
CB-82-2005amends Subtitle 24 (SubdivisionRegulations regarding protection of historic properties)of the County Code. The PlanningBoard shall now require (ratherthan recommend)the preservationof historicresources listed in the Histoic Sitesand DistictsPIan (the County'sMaster Plan for HistoricPreservation). And developer/applicantsare requiredto use flexibletechniques where appropriatein their plans to minimizethe impactof new developmenton historicresources.
CB-92-2005also amends Subtitle 24, clarifyingthe PlanningBoard's authority to protect significantarcheological sites in accordancewith the Guidelinesfor ArcheologicalRevlera4 these professionallydeveloped Guidelines deal with identification,interpretation, and protectionor mitigationof significantarcheological sites, and were adoptedby the PlanningBoard in May 2005. CB-92requires archeological investigation and reviewthrough the subdivisionprocess, in accordancewith the Guidelinesfor ArcheologicalReview.
CB-93-2005amends Subtitle 29 (the HistoricPreservation Ordinance) of the County Code; it determinesthat potentiallysignificant archeological sites, even if not listedin the HistoricSites and DistictsPlan, are subjectto Subtitle24.
Thesenew billswill help in the effortto preservemore of the County'smost fragile historicresources, such as domesticand agriculturaloutbuildings, slaves quarters,and archeologicalsites.
SusanG. Pearl.Historian R@ ?atzca E4ttfo'o entctq@ On Saturday, November19, 2005, an articleappeared in the Real Estatesection of lhe WashingtonPosf entitled Tracingthe Oigin of Spaces: Owner-SleuthsUncover the History Behindtheir Homes. This very interestingarticle described the detectivework, both physical and archival,that has revealedsome of the historyof two housesin the Districtof Columbia. Followingthis article,and closelyassociated with it, was anotherarticle: A Guideto Researching Historyof YourHome. The Gurdesummarized archival sources and recommendedresearch methodsfor ferretingout the historyof one'shouse, offering information about what to lookfor, not only in the Districtof Columbiabut in manyjurisdictions in Marylandand Virginia. The sectionon PrinceGeorge's County was fairlyshort and, unfortunately,not altogethercorrect, so it seemsappropriate here to offersome guidelines for undertakingdocumentary research on Prince George'sCounty properties. Followingis the letter that I sent to the Editorof lhe WashingtonPosl after reading the above-citedarticles.
ln referenceto the article,A Guideto ResearchingHistory of YourHome by TerryRupar in the Real Estatesection (page F23) of the Saturday,19 November2005, issue ol The Washington Posf, I would like to providesome additionalinformation and correcta few of the impressions that the articlegave regarding property research in PrinceGeorge's County.
Briefguidelines on How to Researcha Propertyare available to researchersat the libraryof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical -AlsoSociety, located at historicMarietta, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale (301464-0590). avaiiatileafthe-liFrtry-i5a-liSt ol-ftie-in'oit-frEquentlyused researchsources, and their locations.
For propertyresearch, one mustfirst developa Chainof Title,i.e., a chronologicallist of the ownersand transfersof ownershipback at leastto the periodof constructionof the building.To developthis Chain of Title, the researcherbegins with the currentdeed to the propertyand worksbackwards through legal deeds, sometimes necessarily referring to willsand courtcases for the dispositionof property.When the Chainof Title is complete,the researcherthen consultstax assessmentsto determinejust whenthe propertyunderwent "improvements," i.e., the constructionof building(s)on the property.
The deeds(between 1840 and the present)can be foundin the LandRecords section (lower level)of the CountyAdministration Building (CAB), 14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive in Upper Marlboro.(They are no longerlocated in the CountyCourthouse, as incorrectlyindicated in the 19 Novemberarticle.) At the CAB,these deeds may be read,depending on thedate of thelegal instrument,either in recordedbooks, on microfilm,or in computerfiles. Any deeds dating before 1840can be foundonly at the MarylandState Archives, located at 350 RoweBoulevard in Annaoolis
All of the PrinceGeorge's County tax assessmentrecords are housedat the MarylandState Archives,both in recordedbooks and on microfilm.Some of theseassessment records (1783 to 1871)are also available in the microfilmreading room at the HyattsvilleLibrary, 6530 Adelphi Road in Hyattsville (continuedonpage b) lf Willsand/or Court cases figure in the completionof the Chainof Title,the researcherwill find thesesources at the MarylandState Archives.
Once the date of constructionis determined,based on the title searchand on architectural examination,the researcherwill want to consultother sources to fill out the full storyof the propertyand its owner/occupants.Many of thesesources are availableat the libraryof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society at Marietta:a varietyof historicmaps from the 18th, 19thand 20thcenturies; genealogical information including marriage licenses, church records, tombstoneinscriptions, obituary files, biographical files, and some published family genealogies; nearlycomplete runs of a varietyof localnewspapers; subdivision plats; the 194OFranktin Ailas, which shows detailsof all the buildingsconstructed in many of the County'sdeveloping communitiesby 1940;community histories; church histories; architectural surveys of many communities;specific information on pattern-bookand mail-order houses: extensive vertical files on placesand events;individual files on severalhundred specific historic properties; extensive cross-referencedphotographic archives; a complete collectionof the Marytand Histoical Magazineand the Archivesof Maryland;and a widevariety of published(ca. 6000 volumes) and unpublishedmaterials on manyaspects of the historyof PrinceGeorge's county and Maryland. when visitingthe Historicalsociety library (noon to 4 p.m.on saturdaysand by appointment), the researcherwill receiveindividual assistance by the Societyhistorian and membersof the LibraryCommittee. Researchersmay also requestdemonstrations by librarystaff as to how theycan accessmore information (e.9., census records, historic photographs and plats) on the web.
The WashingtonPosf article indicatedthat the Sanbornfire insurancemaps (whichgive a wealthof informationabout individual historic structures in developedareas) are not availjble at the MarylandRoom of the HyattsvilleLibrary, but failedto indicatewhere these very useful mapscan be found. The completeset of sanbornMaps can be foundat the MarylandRoom, Universityof Marylandlibrary, College Park, and also at the MarylandState Archives, and at the Geographyand Maps Division(Madison Building) of the Libraryof congress. For prince George'sCounty, the Sanborn maps cover the periodfrom 1897 to 1949.
In addition,the HistoricPreservation Office of the M-NCPPGPlanning Department (located at the CABin UpperMarlboro) has files on a verylarge number of individualhistoric properties and historiccommunities. Many more publications on Countyand State history, as wellas microfilm of census and other records,are availableat the HyattsvilleLibrary. For more specific genealogicalresearch, contact the PrinceGeorge's County Genealogical Society, located at 12219TulipGrove Drive in Bowie,301-262-2063.
I hopethat this informationis helpfulto propertyowners who are interestedin researchingtheir propertiesin PrinceGeorge's County.
SusanG. Pearl,Historian PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society PrinceGeorge's County, Maryland Feb.18 Hiqhland Tea at Darnall'sChance eal&idan a/ tcru,tto HouseMuseum, call 301-952-8010 fordetails 7 eltqaaru/ 2 OO 6 Feb.18 & 19 Landsknecht Winter Camp at /ar4r/anq- l\4anettaHouse Museum on Gwer field,10AM-4PM on Sat.,10AM-3PM Jan.10 Patriots" by Lucia St. Clair "Shadow on Sun.,free Robson, Second Tuesday Lecture at Feb.19 Drop-in Cream Teaat Billingsley BelairMansion, 7:30 PM, $3/person HouseMuseum, call 30'1 -627-jrcA Jan.15 Fireside Tea at BillingsleyHouse for details Museum,call 301-627-0730 for fees and Feb.25 First Ladies Tea at MariettaHouse details Museum,3 PM, prepaidreservations Jan.19 Antioue Valentine Displav at Surratt required,call 301464-5291 House Museum through February26, Feb.25 Dav of the Dinosaur at Watkins freewith museum admission Nature Center, ages 3 & up, Jan.22 "An Afternoon of lrish & Celtic residents$2, non-resident$3, call Music" at MariettaHouse Museum,4 301-21 8-67 02 for details PM, $S/person,reservations required, Feb.26 George Washinqton Musicaleat 301-464-5291 MontpelierMansion, call 301-953- Soul is a Witness at Publick Jan.31 Mv 1376for details Playhouse, 7'.30 PM, $1S/adults, March 5 Southern Marvland Art League call 301-277-1710 for $12lseniors, Show at BillingsleyHouse Museum, details Sundaysthrough April 16 Feb.3&4 Evervbodv's Hero: The Jackie March11 7th MD Co. A US Drilt Dav at Robinson Story at PublickPlayhouse, Marietta House Museum on lower Friday at 10:15 AM & 12 PM, $6; field,10 AM-3 PM,free Saturdayat 11AM, $7 March11 Tavern Niaht at RiversdaleHouse Feb.4 Exhibition Tendencies: A 2O-vear Museum, call 301-864-0420for Retrospective of African American details Historv in Prince George's Countv at March15 Historv Lecture Series at HarmonyHall RegionalCenter through Montpelier-Mansion, eall 301€53- March 25, free, open Monday to 1376for details Saturday,call 301-203-6070 for details March18 Mad Hatter's Tea at MariettaHouse Feb.10 Black Journev at PublickPlayhouse, Museum, 1& 4 PM, prepaid 10:15AM & 12 PM, call 301-277- $6, reservationsrequired. call 301-464- 1710for details 5291 Feb.12 Sweetheart Tea at Belair Mansion,4 prepaid reservations PM, $20/person, For moreevents and details,visit wvyw.pgparks.com. required,call 301-809-3089or email: mu se u meve nts @cityofbowie. org Feb.12 Speakins of Fliqht: Doris Rich on the 8e a, Su'eaq Sfnraoa Life and Career of Aviation Pioneer The benefitsof becominga Sponsorof the Bessie Coleman at College Park Societyare numerous,the most significantof which Aviation Museum, 2 PM, free with are recognition of your commitment to the admission preseNationof the rich heritageof the countyand our Feb.12 Expressions of a People at Harmony giftto you, membershipin the Society.As a member Hall RegionalCenter, free, call 301-203- of the Society, you will receiveadvance notice of 6070for details upcoming Society events held throughoutPrince Feb.12 Sweethearts Tour at MariettaHouse George'sCounty includinghistorical lectures, tours Museum,12-4 PM, 2 for 1 admission and trips,and socialevents. You will also receive the Feb.12 Children's African American Heritaqe Society'sbi-monthly publication NEWS & ruOfES, Celebration at Riversdale House which keeps members of the Societyabreast of provides Museum,call 301 -864-0420 for details historicalactivities in the countyand insight into historicsites, persons,and artifactspertinent to Feb.14 "Walter Bowie, Confederate Spv" bv the county. ln addition,as a memberof the Society, Earl Eisenhart, Second Tuesday you witl receiveinvitations to attendSociety functions Lectureat Belair Mansion,7.30 PM, whichare notopen to the generalpublic. $3iperson There are three levelsof sponsorship:Gold Feb.18 Prehistoric Partv at CleanryaterNature ($5OOdonation), Silver ($2SO donation), and Bronze Center,1-4 PM,$3/person, free/under 2, ($100donation). lf you haveany questions,please call 301-297-4575 for details callElizabeth Dougherty at 301-680-3976. 6 7oz Sale
1, Landmarks of Prince Georoe's Countv* - 125 black and white photographsof.the rich architectur€llegacy of Prince George'sCounty by Jack E. Boucher.Ananged chronologically, the photosand captionsofier a panoramicoverview of the county'sarchitec{ural and historical development. Indexed. Hard-cover, 144 pages. Price:$18.00.
2. Prtnce George's Countlt: A Pictorial Historv* - The historyand essence of PrinceGeorge's County come alive in words and picturesin this beautifulcollector's edition. Written in a iascinatingnanative with morethan 350 photographs, maps, and illustrations.Many of themare in full colorand are previouslyunpublished. Author: Alan Mrta. 1998- Revisedand updatededition. Hardcover,308 pages. Price:$42.95.
3. Joumev Throuoh Time - A Pictorial Historv of the Prtnce Georde's Countv Police Deoartment" - A history of the county police department@vering over 200 years. Author: Lt. Dennis Campbell. Indexed. Printed1991. Hardmver,304 pages. Price:$40.00.
4. Calvert of MaNIand - Thisfact-based novel shows the homelife of the colonistsfrom a child'sviewpoint. This story is told in the first personby youngGeorge Calvert, godson of the first Lord Baltimore,George Calvert. Reprint of JamesOtis Kaleis '1910publication. Hardcover, 166 pages. Pen and ink illustrations.Price: $6.95.
5. Atlas of Fifben Miles around Washinoton includino the Countv of Prince Geome Marvland - compiled, drawn and publishedftom actualsurveys by G. M. Hopkins1878 including "historical" sketches. Indexed. Reprint 1979. Soft cover,32 pages. Price:$10.00.
6. Atlas of Prince Georqe's Countv, Marvland 1861- Allaswas adaptedfrom Martenet'sMap of PrinceGeorge's County, Maryland,with informalionfrom 1860federal census for eacheleclion distric{. Indexed.Reprint 1996. Softcover, 32 pages.Price: $10.00.
7. Pince Georoe's Countv, Maryland. lndexes of Church Reqiste6 1686-1885 - Volume| - ProtestanlEpiscopal Church,King George'sParish, and QueenAnne's Parish. Author:Helen W. Brown. Reprint2000. Sofi cover,200 pages.Price: $18.00.
8. Pince Georoe's Countv. Maruland. lndexes of Church Redisters 1686-1885- Volume2 - ProtestantEpiscopal Church,St. Paul'sParish, and PrinceGeorge's Parish. Author: Helen W. Brown. Repridt2000. Softcover, 196 pages. Price:$18.00.
9. Out of lhe Past - Prince Georaeans and their Ldnd - Chronicleof everydaylife in Princeceorge's county, Maryland from the time of its foundingin 1676until the beginningof the CivilWar. (lnformationfor this bookwas gleanedfrom publicrecords, newspapers, and privatepapers.) Author:R. Lee Van Horn. Reprint1996. Hardcover,422 pages. Price:$20.00.
10. Trtcentennial Cook Book - Containsrecipes collected from PrinceGeorge's County residents as partofthe tricentennial celebration.Compiled and editedby DorothyRainwater and the TricentennialCelebration Committee. Printed 1996. Softcover, spiral bound, 150 pages. Price: $10.00.
.Shippingand handlingfor books numbered1,2, and 3 is $3.00 for each copy of the book becauseof size and weight. They are shippedseparately.
Shippingand handlingfor all other books is $2.50 for the first book and 50 cents for each additionalbook.
Shipping and handlingfor internationalorders. Please call 301-46,4-0590or email the HistoricalSociety for current postage rates.
Make checks payableto: Prince George'sCounty HistoricalSociety. Marylandresidents, please add 5% sales tax.
Mailyour order to: Prince George's CountyHistorical Society PublicationSales P. O. Box 14 Riverdale,MD 20738-0014 ?u'ta q4neteb@ Soeaq a@
DATE NEW RENEWAL NAME ADDRESS CITY,STATE, ZIP PHONE(HOME) (BUStNESS) EMAIL MembershipGategory (Please check one) Sponsor: D Gold Level $500 D Silver Level $ZSO D Bronze Level $100 tr Member/Family$25 tr SustainingMember $S0 tr InstitutionalMember $50 tr Life Member$300 tr Additional Gontribution
O I am also interestedin helpingthe Societyas a volunteer. pleasecontact me.
O For membe6hip in lhe MarvlandHistorical Societv, include an additionalg30 for individualor 940for family Pleasemake checks payable to PGCHSand mail your check and this form to: PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety, P. O. Box 14, Riverdale,MD 20738-0014
We are fundedthough your dues and contributions, Contributions are tax deductible. We appreciateyour support.
Prince George'sGounty HistoricalSociety P.O.Box 14 NON-PROFITORG. Riverdale,MD 20738-0014 U. S POSTAGEPAID UpperMarlboro, MD PermitNo. 1948
.IOHNJ PEI-RC& KATHLEET'J TO: lncHFiELD PC |SOX1658 M|TCHELI-V|LI-Fl/lD 20717 1668
i;i? !,?+ ! i.i.*-i.r I'J*i. A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society
XXXV Number2 March-April2006
MARIETTAHOUSE MUSEUM (Home of the PrinceGeorge's Sc. qatefe'o Daq, CountyHistorical Society) 2006 St. John's Church, Broad Creek FacilityManager: SusanWolfe 5626BellStation Road This year we will gatherat St. John'sEpiscopal Church, in the Glenn Dale,MD 20769-9120 heart of the Broad Creek HistoricDistrict, to celebrateour 31OthSt. 301-464-5291 TTY 301-699-2544 George'sDay on April 23. St. John's Churchwas built 1766-1768, (Off Route 193,near Route450) the fourthchurch built on the site of the firstchurch in KingGeorge's A facilityof the Maryland-National (Piscataway)Parish. CapitalPark and Planning Commission
MARIETTAHOUSE TOURS Friday,11 am to 3 pm Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4pm Weekday& eveningtours by appointmentonly
MARIETTAHOUSE GIFT SHOP Manager:Stella Uber 301-464-0590 OpenFriday, 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4 pm (alsoopen duringspecial events)
FREDERICKS DeMarrLIBRARY In 1692, the "Act for the Service of AlmightyGod and the OF COUNTYHISTORY Establishmentof the ProtestantReligion within this Province"had Historian:Susan G. Pearl 301-464-0590 establishedthe Church of England as the officialchurch of the OpenSaturday, 12 noonto 4 Pm Marylandprovince. Two of the 30 Anglican parisheswere located within the boundariesof the new Prince George'sCounty when it LECTURESERIES: Rosenwald was establishedin 1696. One of them, Piscataway(later known as Schoolsin Prince Georqe's KingGeorge's) Parish, established in then CharlesCounty, extended Countv by PGCHSHistorian SusanPearl. See Calendarfor alongthe PotomacRiver and includedthe areaaround Broad Creek. moreinformation. In 1692,there was no existingchurch building in PiscatawayParish, but inhabitantsof the areaformed a vestryand in 1694purchased a tract of land on BroadCreek, and contractedwith carpentersto build a woodenchurch. The buildingof the firstchurch on thissite begins the historyof St. John's EpiscopalChurch, one of the historical/ architecturallandmarks of the BroadCreek community. (Continuedon Page3) W?rlzarrcto... ?io furte q4tateb &4d? With the arrival of March and, therefore, Women'sHistory Month the notableaccomplishments Ttateta.l Suacl of Prince George's County women should be 5626 BellStation Road recognized.lt was on the Landoverfarm of Amanda Glenn Dale,MD 20769-9120 Best, a women'srights advocate, that BelvaLockwood Phone:301464-0590 for presidencyof the United in 1884was nominated the Email:[email protected] or States,the firstwoman so nominated.(The structurein [email protected] which this took place was moved in 1983 to Glenn Dale.) The County counts among its remarkable Website: www.pghistory. org citizensfrom the distaffside Mary Bowie, the builder of Bowieville(1819), who has been describedas, "a President: John Petro woman of masculinebusiness capacity and energy, Vice President:JamesWolfe who managed her large plantationwith skill and Secretary: DustyRhoads success,"and Rosalie Galvert of Riversdale(1807). Treasurer: DonnaSchneider She, like Mary Bowie, was another meticulous Historian SusanG. Pearl workers,and family. managerof business, Editor: Judy Schneider(414-721-2183 ) email: [email protected] and strengthwere the hallmarks lndependence Membership. DonnaSchneider and Anna of Nellie Plummer, an educator,who chronicledher family'sstruggles in the book,Out of the Depths,or the Holmes Triumph of the Cross; Hester King, a civil rights Directors:Anna Holmes, Lynn Roberts, activistand NAACP county chapterfounder, Bonnie Andrew Wallace,William Uber, Joyce Dowling, Johns; an advocatefor children'srights, mental health Wallis Cain, ElizabethDougherty, Hannah Cox and educationand Gora Rice, an entrepreneurand CharlesHendricks, and DanLouck civic activist. Among the determinedwomen of the Newslettercontributors: Susan G. Pearl, secondhalf of the 20thcentury who took their activism John Petro, Jim Wolfe, Susan Wolfe, Donna intothe politicalarena were Gladys Noon Spellman, Schneider,Judy Schneider and Joyce Dowling. HildaPemberton, Jo Ann Bell and Audrey Scott Printer:MinuteMan Press. 410-451-0218
While there are hundreds of outstanding All membersof the PrinceGeorge's County named Women of women who could be as HistoricalSociety are invitedand welcometo attend hundreds of Achievement, there are countless Societyboard meetings. We meet at the Marietta lastthree thousandsof otherwomen over the centuries Mansionone Saturday each month at 9:30am - March unrecorded,but none- who were unheraldedand often 4 andApril 8. (Datesare subjectto change.Call to and the-lessdisplayed remarkable courage, strength confirmthe date if youwould like to attend.) mothers,farmers, cooks, teachers characteras wives, News & Nofesis publishedsix timesa year. and political and lateras employees,company owners You are invitedto submita relevantarticle for print is extendedto the women leaders. A heartfeltsalute (subjectto spacelimitations). The deadlinefor the place live who have madethis Countya better to and May-Juneissue is April 15. people. all itscitizens a better lf you wouldlike to volunteeryour time and talentsto the HistoricalSociety in anycapacity, please 7Qat4 7/.r. callus. We'dlove to haveyou join us. All agesare *uaoul welcome! The PGCHSwould like to say thankyou again definitely for yourgenerous donation to the Societythis year. *e/e?le ,"ltl .0et€/ NathaniaA. Branch Miles and Jane Taylor PetroDesign/Build, Inc. Thomasare producinga book for ArcadiaPublishing Companyentitled lmages of America:Oxon Hill. They are lookingfor vintagephotos of the Oxon Hill District Hannah"zo.tto.4e.r/C. Cox CraftworksDesign Inc. from the early 1900s. The lmagesof America series HenryHamann celebratesthe history of neighborhoods,towns and presents Edwardand EvamariaHawkins cities across the USA. Each title the past Dan Louck distinctive stories from the that shaped the you Douglasand SusanMcElrath characterof that communitytoday. lf have any photos BarbaraM. Murphy or storiesto share,contact Nay BranchMiles at PrinceGeorge's County Historical & CulturalTrust [email protected] Jane Taylor Thomas [email protected]. Robinson& Associates at All photosand materialswill be Judyand KenSchneider returnedin excellentcondition. (Continuedfrom Page 1) graveyard.North of the churchbuilding is the 1706, In the Maryland General Parish Hall (built in 1966),where we will passed "Act Assembly the for the gatherfor our St. George'sDay dinner. The Advancement of Trade," designatingfive church measures38 feet by 63 feet; its brick towns, each 100 acres in size, in Prince is laidin Flemishbond, and the buildinghas a George'sCounty. One of them, Aire, was flaredhip roofand a smallgabled entry porch "Thomas located at Lewis's Landing" on in the west fagade. The east fagadehas two Broad Creek,where activetrade had already 12-over-9windows that replace a circular poft been established. The town community stained glass window of 1910. Centeredin grow, began to and a new frame house of the south fagadeis a doubledoor, originally planned worshipwas at the site of the 1694 the mainentrance. Although there have been church;begun in 1747,the secondchurch on many alterationsto the churchbuilding over the site was largerand more substantialthan nearly 240 years, it is essentiallythis 1768 thefirst building. churchthat we will see on St. George'sDay, 2006. One indication of the groMh and port activityof this Potomac town is the fact A number of prominent men have 1720s, that by the early the vestry at served as rectors at St. John's Church, plans PiscatawayParish made to constructa includingHenry Addison and his nephew, church of brick to replace the 1707 wood- Walter DulanyAddison. GeorgeWashington frame structure. In January 1722123,the is reportedto have worshippedin this church vestry contracted with John Lane and on his frequent visits to Prince George's Radford carpenterJohn to builda new brick County. An engraved plate affixed to the churchand completethe framingand interior colonial pew near the front of the church questionnaire detail. In a church of 1724, reads "ln memory of GeorgeWashington "My parish RectorJohn Fraserwrote: church Restored by his Great-Great-Great in its infancywas twice builtwith timber . . Grandnephew,George W. Magruder,1895." [not able to] keep the wooden churches in repair [the Vestry] lately built a new St. Johns Church is an outstanding ground great churchwith brickfrom the to the example of Georgian ecclesiastical expencesof the Parishioners Rector architecture,and representsone of the oldest questionnaire Fraser also indicatedin this of the Anglican church sites in Prince that he baptizedmany Negro slaves, who George'sCounty. lt witlbe a wonderfulplace "frequent my churchesordinarily . . ." to celebrateSt. George'sDay, 2006. You will receive your invitationssoon, and we look present-day The church at Broad fonruardto seeingyou there! growth prosperity Creek reflectsthe and in - SusanPearl & SusanWolfe the Broad Creek community during the 1760s. In April 1765 the Vestry contracted with one ThomasCleland to builda full-length additionto the 1723brick church. The plans were changed several times over the next year, but finallyin April 1766,it was decided that all the old brickworkwas to be taken downand rebuilt.The churchwas completed in 1768.
Today this very handsome church St. George'sFlag grounds standson landscaped on the banks (RedCross on WhiteField) of Broad Creek, adjoined by its ancient
3 severallinks to othersites, including county Ooazlf %t:otot7 O6/*,rc historicalorganizations, local histortoricl sites (museums and towns), other county The PrinceGeorge's County Historical historicalsites, state historicalsites, state Societyis onlineat www.pghistory.org. historyresources, U.S. history,and world- widehistory links. Prince George's County Historical Societymembers can join the PGCHSemail Additionalinformation on the site list conversationsabout locaf historyevents includes: and news articles by sendinga blank . Societyobjectives message to PGHist-chat- . BoardMembers list and contact links [email protected]. Non-PGCHS . Booksfor Sale membersand people concerned about getting . Membershipbenefits too many messagescan subscribeto the . FrederickS. DeMarrLibrary information PGCHSannouncements-only email list by . Mariettalocation and map sending a blank message to PGHist- . Search form for automatedsearch of [email protected] is no need to entiresite subscribeto both,?s announcementswill be sent to both lists. You will be sent a lf you haveany problemswith the site confirmationemail that vou must replyto, so or suggestionsfor new links,please email makesure that email doesn't get lostin vour JoyceDowling, at [email protected] Spam filter. The listservwas chosen with or 301-782-9922. privacyand easeof use in mind.lf you have - JoyceDowling any problemssubscribing, please email our (For moreevents and details,visit www.pgparks.com. list manager, Joyce Dowling, at Ed.) webmaster@pgh istory. org.
Fromthe website you can accessa lot Sea.Soaaclfu of information,including our MessageBoard The benefitsof becominga Sponsorof which is a constantresource for answering the Societyare numerous;the mostsignificant of questionsonline. PGCHS Historian, Susan which are recognitionof your commitmentto the preservation Pearl,usually responds on Saturdayto the of the rich heritage of the County and membershipin the poststhat are made duringthe week, but Society.As a memberof the Society,you will receiveadvance notrce of anyonewith answers may replyto posts.The upcomingSociety events held throughout Prince informationis archivedthere for web surfers George's County, includinghistorical lectures, interestedin those topics. tours and trips, social events, and other gifts dependingon yourlevel of sponsorship.You will Thanksto Clair Garman,our web also receivethe Society'sbi-monthly publication calendarhas manylistings or history-related Alews & A/ofes, which keeps members of the eventsin PrinceGeorge's County. You may Society abreast of historical activitiesin the wantto checkit outwhen you havevisitors in County and providesinsight into historicsites, town.The calendarsystem the PGCHSuses persons, and artifacts pertinent to Prince also providesa zip code searchfor other George's County. In addition,as a Society member you will receive invitations your There to attend activitiesin area. is alsoa linkto it Society functions which are not open to the at the bottomof theweb calendar page. generalpublic. Thereare threelevels sponsorship: Gold The HistoryLinks page gives links to ($500 donation),Silver ($ZSOdonation), and the Hall of Fame, MariettaMansion, St. Bronze ($1OOdonation). lf you have any George'sDay Awards, and Tricentennial questions, please call ElizabethDougherty at Historyon our PGCHSsite. There are also 301-680-3976. 4 NAC T RA I L S HERITAGE AREA
Ms.Susan Pearl PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society P.O.Box 14 Riverdale,MD 20738
November28, 2005 &W"tl) Dear$iFearl, On behalfof ATHA,Inc., lwould like to expressmy sinceregratitude for allowing JohnNelson and me the opportunity to do photoresearch in the Frederick DeMarrHistorical Library, operated by the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society.We weregreatly impressed by the richcollection of resourcesavailable to thepublic. These resources allowed us to collecta nicevariety of images whichgreatly cornplimented and enhanced the contentof ATHA'snew visitor brochure.
I amespecially appreciative of the personalservice you provided us. Without thispersonal attention, it wouldhave been difficult to completeour project.Your assistanceand expertise greatly enhanced our search and made what would havebeen a verytime-consuming task into a pleasantand enjoyable search.
ATHA,Inc. works hard to preserveand promotePrince George's County history andappreciates the efforts of the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society. Onceagain, thank you for generously sharing your resources with us. lf thereis anyway ATHA, Inc. can return the favor or be of servicein anyotherway, please letme know.
Cc:Mr. John Petro, President, Prince George's County Historical Society
R 4310 Gallatin Street,3rd Floor t Hyattsuille, Maryland 20781 4 30 j -887-0777 tel t 301-587- I 077 fax I tau)u).Anacostiatrails. org ealpttdan r/ tuerato /* Mfnrl 2006
MarchJu ne - RediscoverinqEarlv Fliqht Through March 31-Aprif2 - SeventhAnnual Svmposium, a Lens: Photoqraphinq the Wright Experience The Crimeof the Centurv:Part llat SurrattHouse exhibitat CollegePark Aviation Museum, free with Museum,$160, reservation and paymentrequired admission in advance,for detailscall 301-868-1121
March 2-Nov. 26 - The Crime of the Centurv Aprif - Laurel HistoricMain StreetTour by local exhibit at Surratt House Museum. free with historianJoe Robison,free, call 301-725-7975for admission details
March 5 - A Lecture:The Rhetoricof Abolition,2 April 1 - Laurel Historical SocietvAnnual Gala PM at SurrattHouse Museum, free "From Millhouseto Museum"at Laurel Museum, fee, call 301-561-4252 for information March 7 - Lecture on earlv 19thcenturv American Costumeby SaundraAltman at RiversdaleHouse April 2 - CivilWar ArtillervDemonstrations at Fort Museum,7:30 PM, fee, call 301-864-0420for WashingtonPark, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, fee, call details 301-763-4600 for details
March 11-12 - World War I Weekend at Fort April 2 - SpecialFocus Tour: "Oh Freedom" at His WashingtonPark, 10 AM-s PM Saturday,l0 AM-3 Lordship'sKindness at 12:30PM & 2:30PM, fee, PM Sunday,free, for detailscall 301-864-0420 call301-856-0358 for details
March 12 - Speakinqof Fliqht Lecture on the April 9 - Speakinsof Fliqht Lectureby Thomas courageous women of NASA by Margaret Kingand RichardGillespie on sharingdiscoveries Weitekampeat CollegePark Aviation Museum, 2 of TIGHAR'sfield school at CollegePark Aviation PM,free with admission Museum,2 PM,free with admission
March 14 - Revivinq the Colonial: Dress,Decor, Aprif 11 - CostuminqJane Austen by Alden Stvleand Structureat BelairMansion, fee, 7:30 O'Brienat BelairMansion, 7:30 PM, free PM,call 301-809-3089 for details April 19 - SorinqHistoru Lecture by RobertBarnes March 15 - Sprinq Historv Lecture on Spirits in on researchhe hasdone at the MarylandArchives EarlvChesapeake by EleanorBreen aboutGeorge and Old Baileyin Englandon indenturedservants Washington'sdistillery at MontpelierMansion at at MontpelierMansion, 7:30 PM, free 7:30PM, free April 22-23 - Annual Marchins Throush Time at March 18 - How to Searchfor Your Roots. a MariettaHouse Museum, 11 AM-s PM, fee, call Belated Black Historv Month Presentation, by 301-464-5291 for details AgnesKane Callum at MontpelierMansion, 2 PM, free,reservations required, call 301 -953-1 376 April 23 - Earth Dav, join the Earth Day work projectat PatuxentResearch Refuge North Tract March 25 - RosenwaldSchools in PrinceGeorge's in Laurel,1-4 PM, free, call 301497-5763 for Counlr presentedby PGCHS HistorianSusan details Pearlat SeabrookHistoric School, 2 PM,free April 29 - MarvlandDav 2006:Explore Our World March 26 - MarylandDav at HistoricSt. Mary's at the Universityof Maryland College Park City, for activitiescelebrating Maryland's 372no Campus,for detailscall 301-405-1000 founding,call 800-762-1634 for details Rub the Oilsand Strewthe Powders:The Leoacv March28 - Lectureby Anthony Pitch, author of the of European Herbs in Earlv American Medicine Burningof Washington,on the War of 1812 at and CuisirlB,an ongoingexhibit at The Montpelier RiversdaleHouse Museum, 2 PM,fee. call301- Arts Center,free, daily from 10 AM to 5 PM,for 864-0420for details moreinformation call 301-953-1 993
6 7oz Sdle
7, Lendmarl(s of Pdnce Geome's Counv - 125 blackand white photograBhsof'the rich arehitectural.legacyof Prinee, George'sCounty by Jack E. Boucher.Arranged chronologically, the photosand captionsoffer a panoramicoverview of the countysarchitectural and historical development. Indexed. Hard-cover, 144 pages. Price:$18.00.
2, P nce Georue's Countv: A Piatorial Historw - The historyand essence of PrinceGeorge's Counly come alive in words and picturesin thisbeautiful collectois edition. Written in a fascinatingnarrative with more than 350 photographs, maps, and illustrations.Many of themare in full colorand are previouslyunpublished. Author: Alan Virta. 1998- Revisedand updatededition. Hardcover,308 pages. Price: $42.95.
3. Joumev Thrcuah Time- A Pictodal Historv of the Pfince Gaorue's Countv Police Departmen( -A historyof lhe county police departmentcovering over 200 years. Author: Lt. Dennis Campbell. Indexed. Printed 1991. Hardcover,304 pages.Price: $40.00.
4. Calvert of Marvland - Thisfacl-based novel shows the homelife of the colonistsfrom a child'sviewpoint. This story is told in the first personby youngGeorge Calvert, godson of the first Lord Baliimore,George Calvert. Reprintof JamesOtis Kaleis 1910publication. Hardcover, 166 pages. Penand ink illustrations.Price: $6.95.
5. Atlas of Fifteen Miles around Washinaton includins the Countv of Prince Georse MaMland - compited,drawn and publishedfrom aclual surveys by G. M. Hopkins1878 including "historical" sketches. Indexed. Reprint 1979. Soft cover,32 pages.Price: $'10.00.
6, Atlas of Prince Georae's Counhz Marvland 1861 - Atlas vras adaptedftom Martenet'sMap of PrinceGeorge's County, Maryland,with informationfrom 1860federal census for eachelec{ion district. lndexed. Reprint'1996.Sofr cover, 32 pages.Price: $10.00.
7. Pdnce Georde's Countv, Maruland. Indexes of Church Reoisters 1686-1885 - Volumel- ProtestantEpiscopal Church,King George'sParish, and QueenAnne's Parish. Author:Helen W. Brown. Reprint2000. Sofi cover,200 pages.Price: $18.00.
L Prtnce Georae's Countv, Maryland, lndexes of Church Reqistars 168&1885 - Votume2 - ProtestantEpiscopal Church,St. Paul'sParish, and Prince George's Parish. Author: Helen W. Brown. Reprint2000. Sof,cover, 196 pages. Price:918.00.
L Out of the Past - Pfince Georaeans and their Land - Chronicleof everydaylife in PrinceGeorge's County, Maryland from the time of its foundingin 1676until the beginningof the CivilWar. (lnformationfor this bookwas gleanedfrom publicrecords, newspapers, and privatepapers.) Author:R. Lee Van Horn. Reprint1996. Hardcover,422 pages. Price:$20.00.
10. Trtcentennial Cook Book - Containsrecipes collected from PrinceGeorge's County residents as partof the tricentennial celebration.Compiled and editedby DorothyRainwater and the TricentennialCelebration Committee. Printed 1996. Sofrcover, spiral bound, 150 pages. Price: $'10.00.
-Shippingand handlingfor booksnumbered 1,2, and 3 is $3.00for each copy of the book becauseof sizeand weight.They are shipped separately
Shippingand handlingfor all otherbooks is $2.50for the firstbook and 50 centsfor eachadditional book. Shippingand handlingfor internationalorders. Pleasecall 301.464-0590or emailthe HistoricalSociety for current posEgerates.
Makechecks payable to: PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society. Maryland residenb, please add 5% sales tiax. Mailyour order to: PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society PublicationSales P. O. Box14 Riverdale,MD 20738-0014 7 Ecnarob@ Soeaq a@
DATE NEW RENEWAL NAME ADDRESS CITY,STATE, ZIP PHONE(HOME) (BUSTNESS) EMAIL MembershipCategory (Please check one) Sponsor: fl Gold Level $500 f, Silver Level $250 il Bronze Level $100 tr Member/Family$25 tr SustainingMember $50 tr InstitutionalMember $50 tr Life Member$300 tr AdditionalContribution
O lam also interestedin helpingthe Societyas a volunteer, Pleasecontact me,
O For membership in the MaNland HistoficatSocietv, include an additional$i0 for individualor $40for family Pleasemake checks payable to PGCHSand mail your checkand this form to: PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety, P. O. Box 14, Riverdale,MD 20738-00{4
We are funded though your dues and contributions. Contributions aretax deductible, We appreciate your support,
PrinceGeorge's Gounty Historical Society NON-PROFITORG. P.O.Box 14 U. S. POSTAGEPAID 20738-0014 Riverdafe,MD UpperMarlboro, MD PermitNo. 1948
TO: A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society
XXXVNumber 3 May-June2006
MARIETTAHOUSE MUSEUM (Homeof the PrinceGeorge's 2006 CountyHistorical Society)
FacilityManager: Susan Wolfe This year'sannual Preservation Month Reception will be held 5626 Bell StationRoad on Thursday,May 25 from 6 to 8 PM at MountCalvert Historical and GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 ArchaeologicalPark, 16302 Mount Calvert Road, Upper Marlboro. 301-464-5291 TTY 301-699-2544 The receptionis hostedby Prince George'sHeritage, Inc., and M- (OffRoute 193, near Route 450) NCPPCwith sponsorshipand assistanceby numerousorganizations A facilityof the Maryland-National involvedin historicpreservation in the county,including the Prince CapitalPark and Planning George's County Historical Society and the Prince George's Commission Historicaland CulturalTrust.
MARIETTAHOUSE TOURS Friday,11 am to 3 pm Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4pm Weekday& eveningtours by appointmentonly
MARIETTAHOUSE GIFT SHOP Manager.Stella Uber 301-464-0590 OpenFriday, 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4 pm (alsoopen during special events)
FREDERICKS DeMarrLIBRARY OF COUNTYHISTORY i Historian:Susan G. Pearl 301464-0590 OpenSaturday, 12 noonto 4 pm The receptionprovides an opportunityfor those interestedin our county'sheritage to get togetherand celebratethe individuals LECTURESERIES: and organizationsthat are working in preservation,to assess our efforts,and to lookto the future. The eveningsagenda will includea keynoteaddress by preservationadvocate Audrey Scott, Directorof Planningfor the Stateof Maryland,awarding of preservationplaques to historicproperty owners, and the announcementof the County EndangeredSites List. Sam Parker, Chairman of the County PlanningCommission, will serveas masterof ceremonies. There will also be ample time to socializeand enjoy the unique-setting resourcesof Mount Calvert, one of the county's most significant sites. (Continuedon Page3) M?ftCoahayn,... ?io ?ertcrp Ecnare'ofura? Following last September's Prince of a Countycelebration, a numberof Board members Taro'tel Saeuq were struck by the plethora of agricultural 5626Bell Station Road innovationsand advances developed in our GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 county. Being at Boxleecreated the opportunity Phone:301-464-0590 for reflectionon planthybridization as notedin the Email:[email protected] or "tulipomania"of the late 18th century to the [email protected] developmentof the Glenn Dale Azaleain the 20th Website: wu,v.pg history. org century. The PlantIntroduction Station in Glenn Dale, the University of Maryland Tobacco President: John Petro Researchfarm in Upper Marlboro,the Beltsville Vice President:JamesWolfe ResearchCenter, the Departmentof Agriculture's Secretary: DustyRhoads archives and numerous departments at the Treasurer: DonnaSchneider Universityof Marylandat College Park are all Historian SusanG. Pearl locatedhere and providescientific theorizing and Editor: JudySchneid er (410-7 21 -21 83 ) practicalapplication of thesenew ideas. email: [email protected] In additionto developmentsin plants,w€ Membership: DonnaSchneider and Anna can also boastof animalhusbandry and breeding Holmes used to develop a thoroughbred stock from Directors: Anna Holmes, Lynn Roberts, Setima(a horse) at Belair in the 18thcentury, Andrew Wallace, William Uber, Joyce Dowling, Cinderetla (a cow) at Riversdale in the 19th Wallis Cain, Elizabeth Dougherty, Hannah Cox century and the large-breastedturkey at the Charles Hendricks,and Dan Louck BeltsvilleAgricultural Research Center in the 20th Newsletter contributors:Susan G. Pearl, century. Innovativebarn design and scientific John Petro, Dusty Rhoads, Wallis Cain, Andy farmingtechniques by CharlesBenedict Calvert Wallace, Donna Schneider, and Judy Schneider led the 1gth century into efficiencyuntil then Printer.MinuteMan Press, 410-451-0218 unrealized.His efforts on the nationalstage led to the developmentof the U.S. Departmentof All members of the PrinceGeorge's County Agricultureand he providedland for the Maryland HistoricalSociety are invitedand welcometo attend AgriculturalCollege, which became the University Society board meetings. We meet at the Marietta - of Maryland. Mansionone Saturdayeach month at 9.30am May6 (Dates Whileagriculture is now underfive percent and June 10. are subjectto change. Call to confirmthe date if you wouldlike to attend.) of the county's economic base, it was the News & A/ofesis publishedsix timesa year. historical financial heart of Prince George's You are invited to submit a relevantarticle for print County. Hopefully,over the next few years an (subjectto spacelimitations). The deadline for the July- interestedgroup of local historianswill be able to Augustissue is June15. compile and further research this interesting lf you would like to volunteeryour time and chapterof the county'shistory. talentsto the HistoricalSociety in any capacity,please call us. We'd love to have you join us. All ages are definitelywelcome!
ga"dro r'e&l HannahC. Cox 76a'e6?/r*fu| CraftworksDesign Inc. The PGCHSwould like to say thankyou again E.H.T.Traceries. lnc. for yourgenerous donation to the Societythis year. HenryHamann q"l4 Z€ncl Edwardand EvamariaHawkins KennethF. Hodges RobertM. DeMarr ezStorage DanLouck Petro Design/Build,lnc. Douglasand SusanMcElrath BarbaraM. Murphy S&ra.4cr/el PrinceGeorge's County Historical & CulturalTrust TheWixon Family Robinson& Associates Judyand KenSchneider 2 (PreservationMonth Reception, Continued from Page 1) David P. Fogle for long commitmentto the confluence Overlooking of the preservationand professionalefforts to WesternBranch and PatuxentRivers, Mount investthis dedication in youngpeople archaeological and historical Calvert's Montgomery Developmentfor sensitive over 8000 years resources represent of restorationof BowievilleMansion NativeAmerican, Euro-American and African Suzan Stephensonfor documentingand American culture. The site includes a preservingthe historyof horse breeding wonderful late 18th Century restored and racingin PrinceGeorge's County plantationhouse, the only remaininghistoric Nathania Branch-Miles, Jane Taylor structureat Charles Town, the first seat of Thomas and Beverly Babin Woods for PrinceGeorge's County government. the publicationof lmages of America- All Historical Society members are Fort Washington. invitedto attend the reception. RSVP's are After the presentation of the St. required! Pleasecall eitherATHA at 301- George'sDay Awards,The Hall of Fame of 877-0777 or email Pam Cooper at Prince George's County, which annually [email protected] make your recognizesthe creativityand contributionsof reservation. distinguishedPrince Georgiansof the past, - AndyWallace proceededwith the formal inductionof its 2006 honoree,Jim Henson. Hensonwas a Sc. /zntteb Daa 2006 man who achievedhis phenomenalsuccess (The Muppets) but still retained his social On Sunday,April 23,2006,the Prince conscienceand artisticintegrity in his work George's County Historical Society and promotingenvironmentalism. celebrated St. George's Day (the 31Oth His best rememberedpuppet Kermit anniversary of the establishmentof the the Frog (sorryMiss Piggy!)was namedafter County)at St. John's Church,Broad Creek. his childhoodfriend from Mississippi.One of Nearly100 peoplegathered for this annual the main reasonswhy Jim preferredto use celebrationof the County's heritageand a Kermit the Frog for his signaturecharacter very nice buffetdinner was served. We were was that he was the lightestin weightof the alsotreated to a tour of the Church. regularpuppets and thereforeone of the most Eachyear since 1974the St. George's comfortablefor use for extendedperiods of Day awardsare presented to honorpersons time. Kermitwas originallycreated out of his or organizationsthat have contributedto the mother'sold coatand a ping-pongball. In the recognition and preservation of Prince beginningKermit was not a frog, but a lizard- George's County heritage. At this years like character,however he graduallyevolved celebration,the followingwere honoredwith into the characterthat we know today. You St. George'sDay awards. can find a statueof Hensonand Kemiton the . Katharine D. Bryant and Stephanie Universityof Maryland,College Park campus Stullich for the publicationof lmages of whichis Jim'salma mater. - America College Park The HistoricalSociety was delighted . George H. Calcott for the publicationof that Jane,Elizabeth and CherylHenson were The University of Maryland at College able to attend the awardpresentation. Park, A History . Ann Harris Davidsonfor the publication of Historic Homes in Berwyn Heights, 2006 Calendar . Renee Kidd for outstandingvolunteer commitmentto RiversdaleHouse Museum and the RiversdaleHistorical Society
2 companyl to express interest and concern. Ttataatc ?/Ada&o Although it is clear that the conditionof the house The HistoricalSociety has long been active is being carefully monitored, we have seen little in the preservation of historic documents, evidence of the recommended and required buildings,and artifacts.From the beginningof the repairs, and little evidence of long-termplanning preservation movement in Prince George's for preservation and use of the house, the County, the Society has pursued the objectives outbuildings, and the immediate grounds. The stated in its By-Laws, one of which is "to Board of Directors of the Historical Societyurges encourageand participatein the protectionand the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and preservationof historic sites and structures in staff to facilitate, and indeed require, real Prince George's County." The Society was progress towards the goals of restoration and representedon the citizens'advisory committee for reuse of this very important historic site, and we both the 1981 Hisforic Sitesand DistrictsPlan and offer whatever assisfance we can in this regard." that Plan's 1992 amendment,and has, over the We are happy now to see that repair work at years, kept abreast of and worked for the Melfordis finallyabout to begin. preservation and restoration of the County's Similarly,a month later,the Committee historicsites. Recently,the HistoricalSociety has entered into the HPC record its comments playeda significantpart in the effortsto preserve regardingthe rebuildingand interpretationof the and restorethe RidgeleyRosenwald School. antebellumdwelling (which may have been a Each year,the Societyhas recognizedand slavequarter), once partof the plantationknown celebratednotable preservationprojects through as Brookefieldof the Berryssouth of Croom. the presentationof St. George'sDay awards- for "The Preservation /ssues Committee of example,in recentyears, St. George'sDay awards the Prince George's County Historical Society were presentedfor the restorationof the William has met and reviewed the staff report and W. Early House in Brandywine,the saving by recommendations for [the sife plan for the relocationof Buena Vista in Glenn Dale, the developing propertyl adjacent to Historic restorationof the GoodloeHouse and the Knights Site#86A-20, Brookefield of the Berrys. The of St. JohnHall in Bowie,and now the magnificent Historical Society supports the reconstructionof restorationof Bowievillein the Leelandarea. the antebellum structure on Parcel A of the ln the last severalyears, the Societyhad developing property, and supporis the plans fo endeavoredto participatemore actively in the display the mortise-and-tenonstructural detail, as deliberationsover preservationissues by the well as the conveyance of Parcel A to the County's appointed Historic Preservation homeowners' association for future use and Commission(HPC). Althoughit is often difficult interpretation. The Historical Society will be because of associated deadlines to provide pleased fo assisf, if needed, with research and informedinput to the monthlyHPC meetings,the preparationfor this interpretation." Society is renewing its efforts. We have In April, the Society commentedon a establisheda Preservationlssues Committee, proposedsubdivision on the acreageof Historic which previews the agenda and staff reports Site#78-17 (Charles Hill), and urgedthe HPCto before each HPC meeting,and enters into the recommendimprovements in the layoutof the HPC record its comments and suggestionson plannedsubdivision, and in the designof thenew those cases of particularinterest to the Society. housesto be built. For example,Melford, the mid-nineteenth-century The Committeewill continueto work and brickplantation house of the Duckettand Hardisty communicatewith the HPC regardingupcoming families,now the center piece of the Maryland preservationissues. Any Societymembers who Science and TechnologyCenter in Bowie, has would like to work with the Committeeshould been a property of special importanceto the contact us at 301-464-0590. or at Society. Therefore,when the HPC scheduleda [email protected] by e-mail. review of Melford'smaintenance and necessary Don't forget the annual Historic repairsat its February2006 meeting,the Society's PreservationMonth Reception,where you will Preservationlssues Committee addressed the learn about various preservationprojects, both HPCas follows: those under way and those still to be desired. "The Historical Society has for years been The receptionwill be held this year at Mount deeply concernedabout the presentcondition and Calvertfrom 6:00 to 8:00 on Thursdayevening, several times with officers of [the development on May25th. -Susan G. Pearl,Historian
4 WALKV)ITHUSI
the Prince George's County Historical Society witl meet at the Clock Tower located between the CountyAdministration Building and the Courthouse in UpperMarlboFo, Maryland to unveil the newestsection of bricks in the WALK OF HISTORY
Following will be a mini walking tour of UpperMarlboro History given by Barbara Sikorafrom Darnall's Chance and light refreshmentsserved at Darnall's ChanceHoase Museum ffi
If you plan to attend,please RSVP by Saturday,June 17 Wullis Cain 30 I -627-3677 DonnoSchneider 3 0 1-9 5 2-8 539 analyzingthe history,structure, and purposeof a Teae ?io efaanq historic preservation related organization,who The library staff continuesto work on chose to concentrateon our HistoricalSociety. developinga proposalfor a librarianfellowship/ Our librarywill receivecopies of all of the resulting internship,to be presentedto the graduate theses/reports. programs in library science at Catholic Studentsare, of course,frequent visitors, Universityof Americanand the Universityof but they compriseonly a part of our regular Marylandat CollegePark. We havehad much- patrons. Staff of the Anacostia Trails Heritage appreciated assistance from three local Area (ATHA)has made use of our photoarchives, professionallibrarians, as well as welcome in preparinga new, handsome,and informative advice from former HistoricalSociety librarian brochurefor the HeritageArea. SharonSweeting, in tryingto make this project Ward Bucher,the architectworking on the not only of long-termhelp to our library,but of GeorgeWashington House in Bladensburg(Ward meaningfuluse and interestto the graduate is also presently directing the outstanding studentwho undertakesit. restorationwork at Bowieville),has recentlymade As usualthe libraryhas receiveda great use of our collections;our libraryis the repository varietyof interestinginquiries in the last several for all of the plansand photographyfrom the 1976 months. The day beforeLieutenant Governor work on the George Washington House, and Michael Steele was to dedicate the newly these plans and photographsare criticalfor the enlargedMarbury wing of the PrinceGeorge's presentproject. County Courthouse in Upper Marlboro in With the County's new emphasis on October,we receiveda requestfrom his staff archaeologyrequired before development,our for informationon the Courthouse,and on the libraryhas frequentlyassisted professionals doing man for whom the wing was named. We were research on historic lands in preparationfor of course immediately able to send the excavation.This month we wereable to helpone January/February2005 issueof News & Nofes, of these researchersregarding land that was once with its cover article on the history of the part of the PleasantProspect in the Woodmore Courthouse,as well as biographicalinformation area;a small part of the large PleasantProspect on JudgeBenjamin Ogle Marbury. plantation,including the beautiful mansion, is We have also received inquiriesfrom listedin NationalRegister of HistoricPlaces, and the editorsof the Thomas Jeffersonpapers at development (preceded by the required Monticello,seeking information about some of archaeology)will be takingplace around it. the Prince George's County residentsthat About a year ago, library staff helped appearin Jefferson'scorrespondence. lt has writer Carole Herrick with questionsshe had beenexciting to helpthem sort out the various regardingthe Battleof Bladensburg,and related members of the Sprigg family, with whom eventsof 1814in PrinceGeorge's County. She Jeffersonwas in contactin the lateryears of his has now completedher book (August24, 1814, life. Washingtonin Flames)and has sent us a review We have had long conversations,e- copy. As soonas I havetime (certainlynot before mails, and a visit from an IndianaUniversity January),I will read the book and write a review graduatestudent working on African-American for 'recreation Neurs & Nofes, and then add the bookto our amusement parks and spaces," libraryshelves. includingnot only the NotleyHall Amusement Finally,the library(thanks to the effortsof Park on the Potomac, but also retreat Library Committee member Diane Stultz) has communitiessuch as Eagle Harbor and acquireda new(previously owned) computer, and Lincoln.A graduatestudent at the Universityof we are workingon acquiringthe new softwarethat Maryland,now the resident caretakerof the we need in orderto continueaccessioning all of Market Master's House in Bladensburg,has the library materials, 3s well to establish been spending a great deal of time with our networking capability between the two library collections,preparing a major researchpaper computers.Any assistancefrom the membership, on the Market Master's House and early in software,funds, or expertisetoward this goal Bladensburg. We have constant visits from will be much appreciated. Just call us at the other student researchers,e.9., a graduate library (preferablyon Saturdays between noon student working on antebellum free black and4:00 t - ':!tU-fL- communities, and another grad student 3::?',Library Historian @/q'co 2006
MayJune - Celebratinq150 Yearslof the Universityof Fame, PrinceGeorge's County, lnc. to celebratethe MarylandlExhibit, Samuel Riggs lV Alumni Center, 300thbirthday of the town of UpperMarlboro, free with Universityof Maryland,12-1 PM, free regularadmission May-December- Landmarksand Legacies:A History June 3 & 4 - RomanDays, MariettaHouse Museum, of the Colleqeof Education,1920 to PresentDisplay, meet Legionariesand gladiatorsas they demonstrate South Lobby Benjamin Building, University of armor, battle tactics, and camp life, battle Maryland,7 AM-g PM,free reenactments,domestic displays, craft demonstrations, May 6 - May Day Celebrationand Tea, MariettaHouse educationalactivities, period merchantsand food, 10 Museum,1 PM, enjoy a sconeand dessertbuffet tea, AM-4 PM, no petsplease, fee Maypoledancing and making May baskets,prepaid June 4 Civil War Artillery Demonstration,Fort reservations required, call 301-464-5291for fee WashingtonPark, 1,2 & 3 PM,fee pervehicle information June 10 - HappyBirthday. Upper Marlboro! Celebrate May 7 Soeaking of Fliqht lecture, College Park the 300th anniversaryof the foundingof Upper Aviation Museum by Col. WolfgangW.E. Samuel, Marlboro,have a sliceof cake, meetfamous 18th and USAF (Ret) about the Americanrecovery of German 19th centurypeople associatedwith Upper Marlboro jets after World War ll, 2 PM, free with price of history,listen to bandsperform classic American music admission and 18thcentury-style fife and drum corps,bring your May 7 Civil War Artillery Demonstration,Fort own picniclunch or food availablefor purchase,11- 3 WashingtonPark, 1,2 & 3 PM,fee per vehicle PM,free May 7 - FirstAnnual Children's Day, Riversdale House June 10 Open Hearth Cookino Class, Riversdale 'round Museum, 1-4 PM, dance the Maypole,roll HouseMuseum, learn basic open hearth cooking skills hoops and walk on stilts,enjoy graces,marbles and using a variety of techniquesand equipmentin corn huskdoll making,performances by Horn'sPunch Riversdale'sre-created kitchen in the dependency '10 & Judy Show,refreshments and children'sdelights will building, AM-2 PM, fee, advanceregistration and be sold,fee, includes entrance to the mansion paymentrequired, call 301 -864-0420 May 13 Children'sDav to celebrateColonial life, June 11 - Speakinqof Fliqht lecture,College Park NationalColonial Farm, 12-4 PM, rain or shine,fee AviationMuseum by Dr.J. GordonLeishman about the May 14 ComplimentaryMother's Day Tours of technologicaladvancements of early helicopterflight, Darnall'sChance for mothersand grand-motherswhen includingthose made by Emileand HenryBerliner at accompaniedby a payingchild or grandchild,12-4 PM the College Park Airport, 2 PM, free with price of May 17 - Spring Historv LectureSeries, Montpelier admission Mansion by Lqe Preston,archaeologist for Howard June 17 - Walk With Us, the PrinceGeorge's County County,on the excavationof Longwood,7:30 PM, free, HistoricalSociety is unveilingthe nextsection of bricks no reservationsreq uired at the Walk of History,2 PM, see enclosedflyer for May 20 - Gatewav Arts DistrictOpen Studio Tours, details toursare seif-guided,call 301-864-3860,ext. 1 or 3 for June 17 MidsummerEvening, Riversdale House moredetails Museum,celebrate one of the longestdays of the year May 20 & 21 - SprinqOpen Houseat SurrattHouse with early 19thcentury games, bring your own blanket Museum, free guided tours, partake in children's to dine al fresco, Regency-eracostumes optional, 7 games and activitiesof the Surrattera, 12-4 PM, no PM, fee, advanceregistration required, call 301-864- reservationsrequired 0420 May 21 - 38thAnnual Bowie HeritageDav Celebration, June 18 ComplimentaryFather's Dav Tours at BelairMansion & Stable,12-4 PM, free Darnall'sChance for fathers and grandfatherswhen May 25 - HistoricPreservation Month Reception at Mt. accompaniedby a payingchild or grandchild,124 PM Calvert,free, 6-8 PM, see articlefor details June 24 - Hands-OnHistory Dav, Montpelier Mansion, May 27 - Hands-OnHistorv Day, MontpelierMansion, 6 to 8 yearolds will tour our 18thcentury herb garden, lor 2 to 5 year olds, get ready for Father'sDay by and learnabout how herbswere used in medicineand learningall aboutDads in longago Marylandand take cooking,make a take-homecraft with herbs. 10 AM-12 homea craftto give to Dad on his specialday, 10 AM- noon,$5 perchild, reservations required, call 301-953- 12 noon,$5 per child,reservations required, call 301- 1376 953-1376 June 1-August31 - FavoriteSons of UpperMarlboro, For moreevents, visit www. gopri ncegeorgescou nty. co m Darnall'sChance House Museum,view portraitsof or www.pgparks.com. famous Upper Marlboro residents who made a differenceto local, state and national history.The portraitsare on loan to the Museumfrom The Hall of 6 7oz Sdle
1. Lendmarks of Prlnce George's Countvr - 125 black and while photographs-of-therich arehitec{ur€llegacy of Prince George'sCounty by Jack E. Boucher.Arranged chronologically, thg photosand captions offer a panoramicoverview of the county'sarchitectural and historical development. Indexed. Hard-cover, 144 pages. Price:$18.00.
2, Prlnce Geome's Countv: A Pictorial Historvl -The historyand essence of PrinceGeorge's County come alive in words and picluresin this beautifulcollectoCs edition. Written in a fascinatingnanative with morethan 350 photographs, maps, and illustrations.Many of themare in full colorand are previouslyunpublished. Author: Alan Virta. lg98 - Revis€dand updatededition. Hardcover,308 pages. Price:$42.95.
3. Joumev Throuah Time- A Pictortal Histot! of the Prlnce Geome's Countv Police Deoartmen'* -A historyof the county police department@vering over 200 years. Authon Lt. DennisCampbell. Indexed. Printed1991. Hardcover,304 pages. Price:$40.00.
1. Calvert of Manland - Thisfacl-based novel shows the homelife of the colonistsfrom a child'sviewpoint. This story is told in the first personby youngGeorge Calvert, godson of the first Lord Baltimore,George Calvert. Reprintof JamesOtis KaleCs1910 publication. Hardcover, 166 pages. Penand ink illustrations.Price: S6.95.
5. Atlas of Fifteen Miles around Washinaton includino the Countv of Prince Geor?,e Mawland - Compiled,drawn and publishedftom actualsurveys by G. M. Hopkins1878 including "historical' sketches. lndexed. Reprint 1979. Sofr cover,32 pages. Price:$10.00.
6. Aflas of Princa Georae's Countv. MaNland 1861 - Atlas was adaptedtrom Martenet'sMap of Princeceorge's County, Maryland,with informationfrom 1860federal census for eachelec{ion district. Indexed.Reprint 1996. Sofrcover, 32 pages. Price:$10.00.
7, Prince Georqe's Counfit. Marvland, lndexes of Church ReoisteB 1686-1885 - Volume | - ProtestantEpiscopal Church,King George'sParish, and QueenAnne's Parish. Author:Helen W. Brown. Reprint2000. Soff cover,200 pages.Price: $18.00.
8, Pdnce Georoe's Countv. MaNland. lndexes of Church Reoisterc 1686-1885 - Volume 2 - ProtesiantEpiscopal Church,St. Paul'sParish, and PrinceGeorge's Parish. Author: Helen W. Brown. Reprint2000. Sofi cover,196 pages. Price:$18.00.
9. Out of the Past - Prince Georgeans and their Land - Chronicleof everydaylife in PrinceGeorge's County, Maryland from the time of its foundingin 1676until the beginningof the CivilWar. (lnformationfor lhis bookwas gleanedfrom publicrecords, newspapers, and privatepapers.) Author:R. Lee Van Horn. Reprint1996. Hardcover,422 pages. Price:$20.00.
10, Ticentennial Cook Book - Containsrecipes collec{ed from Prin6€George's County residents as partof the tricentennial celebration.Compiled and editedby DorothyRainwater and the TricentennialCelebfation Committee. Printed 1996. Soficover, spiral bound, 150 pages. Price: $10.00.
.Shipping and handling for books numbered 1,2, and 3 is $3.00 for each copy of the book because of size and weight. They are shipped separately.
Shippingand handlingfor all other books is $2.50 for the first book and 50 cents for each additionalbook.
Shippingand handlingfor internationalorders. Pleasecall 301-464-0590or emailthe Societyfor current postagerates.
Makechecks payable to: Prince George's County Historical Society. Marylandresidents, please add 5o/osales tax.
Mailyour order to: PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society PublicationSales P.O. Box14 Riverdale.MD 207 38-001 4 ?arnaeqcna?ob @ ?M Soaaq
DATE NEW RENEWAL NAME ADDRESS clTY, STATE,ZIP PHONE(HOME) (BUSTNESS) EMAIL MembershipGategory (Please check one) Sponsor: il Gold Level $500 C Silver Level $250 il Bronze Level $100 tr Member/Family$25 tr SustainingMember $50 tr InstitutionalMember $50 tr LifeMember $300 tr AdditionalContribution tr | am also interestedin helpingthe Societyas a volunteer. Pleasecontact me.
O For membershig in lhe Maytend Histo cal Societv,include an additional$30 for individualor $rOfor family Pleasemake checks payable to PGCHSand mail your check and this fo]m to: PrinceGeorge's County Historicalsociety, P. O. Box 14, Riverdale,MD 20738-0014
We are funded though your dues and contributions, Gontributions are tax deductible. We appreciate your support.
PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society NON-PROFITORG. P.O.Box 14 U S. POSTAGEPAID MD 20738-0014 Riverdale, UpperMarlboro, MD PermitNo. 1948
TO: ffi w A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society XXXVNumber 4 July-August2006
MARIETTAHOUSE MUSEUM (Homeof the PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety) *appqg@?lffefu
FacilityManager: Susan Wolfe 5626BellStation Road ln thespring of 1706,exactly 300 years ago, the General Assembly of GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 the Marylandcolony officially established five newtowns (and re-established 301-464-5291 CharlesTown, which had first been created in 1683),All butone of thesesix TTY 301-699-2544 porttowns have essentially vanished, leaving only quiet rural area with few or (OffRoute 193, near Route450) no visible 18th century features above ground (but potentiafly rich A facilityof the Maryland-National archaeologicalresources yet to be discovered).Only one, Marlborough CapitalPark and Planning (knownnow as UpperMarlboro), has survivedand flourished, and has been Commission the CountySeat since 1721 MARIETTAHOUSE TOURS Friday,11 am to 3 pm Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4pm Weekday& eveningtours by appointmentonly MARTETTAHOUSE G|FT SHOP Manager:Stella Uber 301-464-0590 OpenFriday,11 am to 3 pm, Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4 pm (alsoopen during special events) FREDEBIGKS DeMARR LIBRARYOF COUNTY HISTORY Historian:Susan G. Pearl 301-464-0590 OpenSaturday,12 noon to 4 pm LECTURESERIES
MarlboroughHouse, 18th Century landmark in UpperMarlboro , razed 1957 Photo1936 by Historic American Buildings Survey By the endof the 17thcentury, when Prince George's County was established,the site which would becomeUpper Marlboroughwas alreadya gatheringplace for merchants;a tavernwas establishedin 1703, and a Presbyterianmeeting house in 1704. he seatof localgovernment at thattime was Charles Town, located on the WesternBranch at its confluence with the PatuxentRiver. CharlesTown had beenestablished as an official porttown by Actsof the GeneralAssembly during the 1680s. Thenin April of 1706the General Assembly, by an Actfor the (Continuedon Page4) Tt0q4ttto . . . ?fo 7u4e qeteto'o &4dq For over two decades, young historianshave converged on the University Taatal Suaq of Marylandin the middleof June for the 5626 Bell StationRoad finals of the National History Day GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 competitions. Students from all states Phone:301-464-0590 pgchslib in local,then stateand finally Email: [email protected] competed the [email protected] Nationals to determine winners in Website:www. pghistory, org documentaries,exhibits, papers or performancescategories in senior (high President: John Petro schoolstudents) and junior (middleschool VicePresident: JamesWolfe students)brackets. Local winners were Secretary: DustyRhoads nominatedto state championshipcontests, Treasurer: DonnaSchneider which,in turn,nominated their best entries to Historia n SusanG. Pearl the nationals.Students must use primary Editor: Judy Schneider (410-721-2183) sourcedocuments and/or interviews, where email: [email protected] available,to supporttheir findings. The Membership: DonnaSchneider and Anna programpromotes excellent scholarship and Holmes Directors:Anna Holmes, Lynn Robefts, encourageslocal historic events as examples Andrew Wallace,William Uber, Joyce Dowling, of larger,global occurrences and issues. Wallis Cain, ElizabethDoughefty, Hannah Cox NationalHistory Day was begun in CharlesHendricks, Jane Dodd and DanLouck 1974 by Dr. David Van Tasselfrom Case Newslettercontributors: Susan G. Pearl, WesternReserve to promotescholarship and John Petro,Wallis Cain, Lynn Roberts, Jim Wolfe, interestin historyamong junior and high DonnaSchneider, and JudySchneider schoolstudents. By 1980,the programhad Printer:MinuteMan Press, 410-451-A218 becomenational and a year-roundstaff was All membersof the PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety are invitedand welcometo attend employedand nationalheadquarters were Societyboard meetings. We meetat the Marietta established,first in Cleveland,but then Mansionone Saturday each month at 9:30am - July movedto Marylandin 1992. Thecompetition 15and August 12 (Datesare subject to change.Call is similarto the NationalScience Fair, The to confirmthe date if youwould like to attend,) History Channel and other corporate /Vews& /Votesis publishedsix timesa year. You are invitedto submita relevantarticle for print sponsorsand a number of educational (subjectto space limitations).The deadlinefor the institutionsfinancially support the program.In September-Octoberissue is August15. additionto the contest segment of the lf you wouldlike to volunteeryour time and organization,NH D offers workshopsand talentsto the HistoricalSociety in anycapacity, please seminars for teachers and summer callus. We'dlove to haveyou join us. All agesare internshipsfor students, definitelywelcome! This year over two millionstudents, parents volu teachers, and nteers have Did you noticeour new HistoricalSociety logo? participatedin NationalHistory Day and its lf not,turn back to page1 and checkout the masthead. componentparts. While individuals must do Many thanks to Wallis Cain, Lynn Robertsand two papers by themselves, documentaries, graphicdesigners from M-NCPPCfor all of theirhard exhibitsand performances can be done work.(lf you needa copy in color,contact Judy and I'll either you.) by groups also,as individuals. emailit to or, Research Our logo depictsthe Crownof England;1gS2 and scholarshipare key to contestant is the year the Societywas formed.Tobacco leaves success. However,all participantsat all are used to separatethe wordingof the outer circle. levelsof competitionare winnersfor having Withinthe quadrantsof the shield,St. George'sCross gone throughthe process. Havingyoung is depictedtop right,with the mirrorimage bottom left. peopleexcited about history, Bottom right is the preserveddoor of Bowievilleand especiallylocal top left depictsthe FrederickS. DeMarrLibrary. lt's history,is a greatthing for allof us, Formore officialdebut will be on Saturday,June 24th at The informationgo to NationalHistory Day.org. Walk of Historyby the ClockTower at 2 pm. 2 8arrryo^4ctnl Welnacao?tcztM HannahC. Cox The PrinceGeorge's County Historical CraftworksDesign Inc. Societywould like to welcome the following E. H,T Traceries,Inc. individuals,organizations and companiesas new CarlP. Glaum memberswho joined the Societysince June HenryHamann 2005: Edwardand Evamaria Hawkins KennethF. Hodges AccokeekFoundation DanLouck Bahr Douglasand Susan McElrath CarolinaRojas BarbaraM. Murphy ToddBahrenburg and Diane Dean PrinceGeorge's County Historical & Cultural Trust MichaelJ. Berry ' Robinson& Associates NathaniaA. BranchMiles Judyand Ken Schneider SuzanneM. Carr VictoriaThompson CraftworksDesign, Inc. (Bronze Level Sponsor) AnnHarris Davidson 8e /4 Socrdq Spatc4od RobertM. DeMarr(Gold Level Sponsor) The benefitsof becominga Sponsorof the E.H.T.Traceries (Bronze Level Sponsor) Societyare numerous; the most significant of whichare CarlP. Glaum(Bronze Level Sponsor) recognitionof your commitmentto the preservationof HenryHamann (Bronze Level Sponsor) the richheritage of the Countyand membershipin the BetsyF. Hill Society.As a memberof the Society,you will receive KennethF. Hodges(Bronze Level Sponsor) advancenotice of upcomingSociety events held JohnJordan throughoutPrince George's County, including historical JohnKeitfer and Bonnie Bray lectures,tours and trips, social events, and other gifts dependingon yourlevel of sponsorship,.You will also ReneeKidd receivethe Society'sbi-monthly publication A/EtAlS & RobertE. Lindsey NOIES,which keeps members of the Societyabreast AddieL. Martin of historicalactivities in theGounty and provides insight Mr.& Mrs.James McCeney into historicsites, persons, and artifactspertinent to Galenand Carolyn Menne PrinceGeorge's County. In addition,as a Society Mrs.H. W. Merritt memberyou will receiveinvitations to attendSociety CourtneyMichael functionswhich are not open to thegeneral public. Robinson& Associates(Bronze Level Sponsor) Thereare threelevels of sponsorship:Gold PeterShapiro ($SOOdonation), Silver ($2SOdonation), and Bronze ($1OOdonation) lf youhave any questions, please call TracyD. Stone -680-3976. MeghanTice ElizabethDougherty at 301 JamesD. Trent, Jr. Zfa&?/.r.fu| ?rton/ad Ttntouaal Soaaet Ruzmlo For those memberswho have renewedtheir MarylandHistorical Society (MdHS) dues with us and The PGCHSwould like to say thankyou have receiveda renewal notice from MdHS, please againfor yourgenerous donation to the Society discard the renewal notice. The Prince George's thisyear. County HistoricalSociety has been in contact with q44 MdHS and discoveredthat even though the dues ^4ercl payments have been received,the funds have not RobertM. DeMarr been appliedto the members'accounts. MdHS is in ezStorage the process of updatingtheir records, After this is PetroDesign/Build, Inc. complete,your will receiveyour membershipcard, You should also continueto receivethe publications and noticesfrom MdHS during this period. S&/e ^eetcl Also please note that for the next renewal TheWixon Family period the rates for the individualand family MdHS membershipswill increaseby $5 to $35 and $45 respectively. 3 Advancementof Trade,re-established Charles Town, and establishedfive new towns. Only one of these port towns was located on the PotomacRiver, a clear indicationthat the concentrationof populationand commercewas at thattime in the easternpart of the County:Afte was establishedalong the wide estuary of Broad Creek, a major tributaryof the Potomac. The other four were on the PatuxentRiver: Mill Town al WilliamMills' land in the southernpart of the County,Noftingham on ThomasBrooke's fand at MattapanyLanding, Queen Anne at Anderson'sLanding, and Marlborough "at the upperlanding on the WesternBranch, commonly called Colonel Belt's landing."l lt is the latter town,now our County Seat, that we willlook into on thisits 300'n anniversary. ElevenCommissioners were appointedto set up the five new port towns in PrinceGeorge's County.Between 19 April 1706, when the Acf was enacted by theAssembly, and 1 Septemberof that same year,these Commissionerswere to meettogether on the landsspecified, select and purchase '100 acresof "ConvenientLand" at eachlocation, survey and lay out eachtown with streets and alleys, leavingspaces for the erectionof churchor chapel,market house, and other public buildings, and then layout the remainingpart of the 100acres in as nearas possibleto 100equal lots. So at thistime 300 yearsago, we can be surethat the Commissionerswere busyinvestigating the five newtown locations, makingselections and negotiating with the owners of the lands. In the caseof our CountySeat, it was first knownas the "Townof Marlborough,'but sooncame to be called"Upper Marlborough" in orderto distinguishit from "Lowed'Marlborough, a port town establishedin the sameyear on the oppositeside of the PatuxentRiver in CalvertCounty. According to longstandingtradition, the two porttowns were named for JohnChurchill, First Duke of Marlborough. Churchillwas at thattime England's most popular hero, having won in 1704an importantvictory at the Battleof Blenheimin theWar of the SpanishSuccession. Fromthe time of UpperMarlborough's official establishment in 1706,Charles Town began to fadein importance.ln 1716a pairof stocksand a whippingpost were erected in UpperMarlborough by orderof the CountyCourt, and in 1717the Countystandard of weightsand measureswas moved fromChades Town to UpperMarlborough. By 1718,Upper Marlborough had becomesuch an active centerthat its inhabitantspetitioned to have the Courthousemoved from CharlesTown to Upper Marlborough,approximately three miles northwest,upstream on the WesternBranch. The General Assemblyconsented to the move,and a newCourthouse was orderedto be builtnear the easternedge of UpperMarlborough. The CountyCourt first met at the not-quite-finishedCourthouse 28 March1721: thisnew Upper Marlborough Courthouse was repaired and enlarged in 1747by DanielPage, the same builderwho five years earlier had been contractedto build the chapel-of-ease(now St. Thomas' Church,Croom) for St. Paul'sChurch in Baden. Fromthe time of its establishmentuntil early in the 20s century,Upper Marlborough was the commercial,political and socialcenter of PrinceGeorge's County. The WesternBranch was usedfor the transportof tobacco,and in 1747,by an Acf for Amendingthe Stapleof Tobacco,the General Assemblynamed Upper Marlboroughas one of the TobaccoInspection Warehouses in Prince George'sCounty. Manyprominent merchants lived and workedin UpperMarlborough, and tobacco warehouseslined the roadto the Branch.Several residents apparently raised and keptswine right in the middfeof town "to the great prejudiceof the inhabitantsthereof," for in 1732 the Assembly respondedto complaints^andenacted a prohibitionand fine against anyone keeping swine unenclosed in Marlboroughtown . . .' By 1744,the populationof UpperMarlborough had grown to theextent that it was designatedas one of the Hundreds(the political/administrative divisions) of the County;by the 1760sa postoffice had been established in theTown. UpperMarlborough was a socialcenter as well; by the 1750sthe town couldboast a newAssembly Hall, at whichwere offeredballs, concerts and operaproductions. Starting in 1750,horseracing drew many people from the surroundingarea, and the severaltaverns in UpperMarlborough were popular stopping places for travelers,and gathering places for the exchangeof newsand ideas. In additionto the regularlysitting Courts, Upper Marlborough includedthe officesof numeroussuccessful lawyers, many of whomwent on to achieveprominent politicalpositions. In 1798/99a new Courthouseof woodframe construction was erectedon the site of the original1721 structure,designed by WilliamLovering, the same Washingtonarchitect who completedthe designfor Riversdalejust a few years later. This Lovering-designedCourthouse was renovatedin 1854and serveduntil 1881, when the new brickCourthouse was erectedon the south sideof MainStreet, a shortdistance to thewest of the original.3Although most of Marlborough's18th- centurybuildings have long since disappeared,important landmarks like K,ngsfon,Contenf, and the Digges-SasscerHouse incorporate and preserveal leasta partof the originalbuilding. The mainblock ol Damatl'sChance, odginally built in the mid 18tncentury and thendrastically rebuilt a centurylater, hasbeen rebuilt and restored to whatit musthave looked like originally. By the early part of the 19thcentury, the silted WesternBranch was no longerused for the shippingof tobacco,but a system of roads had becomewell established,connecting Upper Marlboroughwith the growingFederal City, and with otherdeveloping towns, plantations, churches, andgathering places. Upper Marlborough experienced unusual excitement during the war of 1812.On 22 August1814 a largecompany of Britishtroops, under General Robert Ross, marching northwest fromthe Patuxenttoward the nation'scapital, camped overnight at the edgeof UpperMarlborough. One Britishsoldier described the attractivenessof the town: "lt was one o'clock,when the neathouses and prettygardens of Marlboroughpresented themselves to our view. . . at thatmoment I imagined that I had neverlooked upon a landscapemore pleasing, or morebeautiful. The gentlegreen hills whichon eitherhand inclosed the village,tufted here and therewith magnificenttrees, - the village itself,straggling and wide, each cottage being far apartfrom its neighbours, and each ornamented with flower-bedsand shrubberies;these, with a lovelystream that wound through the valley,formed . . . . oneof the mostexquisite panoramas on whichit hasever been my goodfortune to gaze.' Thesame soldierrelated that, though the soldiershelped themselves to foodand produce, they avoided inflicting unnecessarydamage to the town, and "whenwe marchedout on the followingday, we left Marlborough,not perhapsso rich in livestock,but quite as picturesqueand rural as whenwe entered it."4The then new Trinity Episcopal Church, however, was leftwith a long-termnegative impression of ils short-termBritish visitors. The Vestryminutes record: "No meeting owingto the situation intowhich the countrywas thrownby the invasionof the Britisharmy in August.. . . . Severalleaves hereand somein otherparts of the bookwere torn out by someof Ross'ssoldiers who foundthe book in the churchwhere it was put for safekeeping. . . to their eternaldisgrace be it recorded."And one prominentcitizen of UpperMarlborough, Dr. William Beanes, became forever known for hispart in this event. After he was takenby the Britishto Baltimore,Francis Scott Key went there to negotiatefor his release,and duringthe bombardmentof Fort McHenry,wroie the lyricsfor what becameour national anthem. As the 19'centuryprogressed, Upper Marlborough continued as a govemmentand commercial center. By the middleof the 19'ncentury, it boastednot onlya groupof fine dwellings,but alsoa variety of stores,a bank,an academy,and threechurches - Methodist,Episcopal and RomanCatholic (the Presbyteriancongregation had left UpperMarlborough for Bladensburgin '1725)- as well as two newspaperoffices. Main Streetwas dottedwith law officesof prominentattorneys. The Town was incorooratedin 1870. The adventof the railroadin the 1870screated a secondpattern of developmentfor Upper Marlborough,as granariesand tobaccowarehouses were built aroundthe depotsite. This new developmentand the new marketsthat it openedfor the area'sagricultural products enriched the town andstrengthened the prominenceof MainStreet as the commercialcultural and governmentalcenter of the community.Throughout this period,Upper Marlborough remained the principallocation of the PrinceGeorge's County Bar. Alsoduring this period, as notedabove, a newCourthouse was designed and erected on the south side of MainStreet. WhileUpper Marlborough society was dominatedby some of the County'smost prominent white planters,politicians, merchants and attorneys,the town had always had a substantialAfrican- Americanpopulation, and a longstandingfree black population. Early in the 19Incentury, when William Thorntonand his wife visitedthe Craufurdfamily at Kingston,Mrs. Thorntonwrote in her diary:"We went to two or threeshops - . . . . the best belongedto a free negroman, who is doingvery well; he owns the house and lot in which he lives, maintainsa large family decentlyand is generally respected."sAt the end of the CivilWar, a groupof blackspurchased land and builta Methodist meetinghouseon the southedge of town,and then worked with the Freedmen'sBureau toward the estabfishment in 1867of a schoblfor their children.ln 1922,a new Rosenwaldschool was built, replacingthe deterioratingFreedmen's Bureau school. Just a year beforethat, when a new High Schoolhad beenconstructed for whitestudents, the buildingthat it replacedhad beenmoved to the blackcommunity, reassembled and openedas the County'sfirst secondary school for blackstudents. '1930s It was replacedin the by the first FrederickDouglass High, located just southof the County Courthouse;a plaqueon the groundsof the expandedCourthouse marks the site of this Frederick DouglassHigh School. The thrivingeconomy of the townearly in the 20'ncentury allowed for newconstruction and new facadeson someof the olderbuildings. Between the WorldWars there was anotherbuilding boom, andUpper Marlborough was a bustlingcenter, with not onlythe courtsand attorneys' offices, but also stores,hotels, a movietheater, community meeting halls, separate (until Brown v. Boardof Education in 1954)primary and secondaryschools for blackand white students,and an arrayof retailand personalservices ranging from restaurantsand candystores to gas stationsand a bowlingalley. In 1940,the '1881Courthouse was completelyrebuilt, changing from a QueenAnne Victorian fagade to a neo-classicaltemple with massive lonic columns supporting a pedimentedportico. (Since that time a seriesof additionshas greatlyenlarged the Courthouse,and reorientedit to face southtoward MarylandRoute 4; it was the oldestsection, fronting on Main Streetand rebuiltin 1940,that was severelydamaged by fire on Wednesday, 3 November 2004.) The PrinceGeorge's County Seat has been knownsince early in the 20'ncentury by the shortenedform of its name- UpperMarlboro. Following World War ll, UpperMarlboro's traditional role asthe center of commercialactivity declined. lt wasduring this time that the Town's role as the seatof Countygovernment emerged as the dominantforce in the localeconomy. New commercialand serviceactivities emerged to meet new marketneeds of an expandingdaytime work force,residential subdivisionsbegan to be developedall aroundthe outskirtsof thetown, and large-scale entertainment returnedto the townwith the developmentof the ShowPlace Arena on the site of the old Fairgrounds,
Ofthe six towns established (and re-established) 300 years ago, Upper Marlboro is theonly one that survivesas a town.6There have beenseveral attempts over manyyears to relocatethe County Seatto the moredeveloped area close to the Districtof Columbia,and new govemmental centers have beenestablished in recentyears in Largoand Hyattsville.But UpperMarlboro retains its positionas theCounty Seat, and today remains a busyjudicial and legislative center with a longand distinguished historyof threecenturies. Upper Marlboro will be celebratingits 300tnanniversary in a varietyof ways thissummer. We can thinkback to the busysummer of 1706,and the negotiating,surveying, and planningfor those first six towns in ourCounty, while we celebratethe one that grew and thrived.
-- SusanG. Pearl.Historian
ENDNOTES
I Severalyearsof archaeologicalinvestigation have been undertaken by the Maryland-NationalCapital Park & PlanningCommission at the sileol Cha es Town,butthe only building surviving from the '18'"century is the,ltounfCalvert house. Limited €xcavation had been done by the NationalPark Service at the site of A,irc,Broad Creek; the onlybuildings suwiving from the 18ricentury at the sitearc HarmonyHalt, St. John'sChurch, and parts of the brickendwallsof WantWatet. No '|8'"-centurybuildings survive at th€ sitesof MlllTown, l,loftingham, and QueenAnne. 2 Atchivesot Maryland,Assembty Proceedings 1732, ChaptetXX:27
" SeePGCHS ^lews and Notes,VoL XXXIV, l,to. 1, Jan-Feb 2OOSlor more detail on PrinceGeorge'8 County's historic Courthouse. ' An Eye-WitnessAcr,unt ot the Mlitdr Eventslhat Transpird Betweenthe Landingof the Bdtishat Benedictand the Battteof Btadensburg, as Seenby G.R. GleW,an Otricerin RossbAmy. Philadelphia,M.CEr€y & Sons,1821
5"Diary of Mrs.Thornto n," Recotdsof the ColumbiaHistoticat Society, Vol. 10, 1907.
6 Two other"towns" were officially established during the 18(icentury in PrinceGeorge's County. Piscataway,established on Piscataway Cre€kin 1707by a supplementarylcf t r Advancement of Tnde,was once a thrivingport town but is nowa quietrural area with only a few remaininghouses, two of which (PiscatawayTavem, and Hady's Tavem)date to the p€riodof the town's 1g".centurycommercial prominence.Bladensbulg was establishedin 1742on the EasternBranch (Anacostia) of the Potomac,and was a thrivingpon town tor the restof lhe 18'icentury. Four of its 18'"-centurybuildings survive: Bostwick, lhe MatketMastels Hous€, the GeorgeWashthdo, House, and lheHi eaty-MagruderHouse. lncorporated in 1854,Bladensburg develop€d with I'ght industry during the 20'ncentury.
6l I I t*g'l*. ffi-&s * fu#m.*.Jrum*-" rar$Il{ff s5 srt}lltff"N. #e*"WI'l'TltrotL,i..i.l.ii. Upper Marlborough,G. M. Hopkins Atlasof Prince George's County, 1878 l-jral*r' trl cl.f *.rlrr d * if # ttt* t *td. l&.r'* l.e'ls.r*d.,rc - {!y yt*'-lda r t "h $' alg."Al.r+".1Tfif+ ffi Lri =.**-{****":., rnffisdic4 p **'gnr'#+c' ./a ft n. "{f, f'ra" &s*..rld*. ,F, m :". ff, # u: ;*.jt* i t. t i-rJSt- {""'"---tr"\ .trlx,8*pll M:tl*$ffi
-81 rFf\ #.frft i"tl rt Eri+* t{ 2i,R lr,vow*fl.j Fti ud *T; 8,ffg.x.t* "ffnt?${...:,a..ii!ii@6_is ryK# {*'rry:'ff -- .-l l$i d ??is $roa.^*I *$ ol #rvrs* Witp**. i$t j. The toursare $30 per personand include Ttaarq /c *acao...?&r? transportation,lunch and admission.The buseswill departat 10AM for each tour. Detailswill be provided qory?tc.o?arleqctagobl on wherethe bus pick-upand drop-offpoints are for eachtour. For furtherinformation and reseryations, call SusanWolfe at MariettaHouse Museum at 301- 464-5291 or visit our website at ExplorePrince George's County's gorgeous www.princegeorgesmuseums.org.Alternatively you historicpast on Saturday,July 22,2006! canregister by sendingyour reservation and check or moneyorder to: PGCHC,PO Box 856, Riverdale, MD ln thehustle and bustle of the21't century, the 20737-0856.The deadline for reseruationsis richhistory of PrinceGeorge's past is oftenoverlooked! Monday,July 10,2006. With rootsfirmly planted in the 17|acentury, Prince George'shistory continues to spreadits branchesrnto Don't miss this exciting opportunityto the 21" century. The Countyboasts more historic discoverthe history,the beautyand the versatilityof assetsthan any otherin Maryland.You're invited to GorgeousPrince George's! ! enjoythem!
HistoryDay at Home,sponsored by the Prince George'sCounty History Consortium (PGCHC), will offerfour bus tours throughout the Countyon July22, 2006,.,tourshighlighting our county's incredible historic legacyand diversity.From the earliestoccupation of the landto the presentday, the storyis fascinating,fun andfull of surprises!Plan to enjoya mini-vacationat homel
Thetours are as follows:
o Tilling Rich and FertileEarth: Early Farm ?tatc atcd &ut Toqn Life o NationalColonial Farm u, r42 o MountCalvert Archaeological Park o PatuxentRiver Boat Tour You are invited to join the Historical PatuxentRural Life Museum o Societyfor a picnicand boat tour on the Patuxent Riveron Sunday,August 13, 2006. The boat Sep,rrateLives & Shared Surroundings: tourwill provide the opportunityto seeGreat Blue AfricanAmerican History Herons, o PoplarHill on HisLordship's Kindness Ospreys, ducks, turtles and the magnificentriver o North Hampton Slave Quarters viewsof historichomes. We ArchaeologicalSite willgather at PatuxentRiver Park starting at 4:30 o BelairStables Museum PM for a late afternoonpicnic. The one-hour o DorseyChapel pontoonboat tour along the Patuxentwill start at 6 PM. PatuxentRiver Park is locatedat 10000 GhoosingSides: Prince George's County in CroomAirport Road in UpperMarlboro. the CivilWar Pleasebring a maindish for you and your I o FortWashington Park familyand either a salador dessertto sharewith o SurrattHouse Museum the restof thepicnickers. The Society will supply o MariettaHouse Museum the ice and beverages. Don'tforget the bug o Prince George's County Historical sprayand sunscreen! Society Even though this event is free, reservationsfor the boat tour are needed. Life Goes On: ContinuousUse of Historic PleaseRSVP no laterthan Sunday, August 6 to Homes DonnaSchneider at 301-952-8539or Nathania o MontpelierMansion BranchMiles at 301-322-9409. c BelairMansion o Darnall'sChance o PoplarHill on HisLordshrp's Kindness g 2006 ,4rcucaMrfiqrdndo
AudreyE. Scott,Secretary of the MarylandDepartment of Planningand Chairman of the MarylandHeritage AreasAuthority was invitedto the WhiteHouse on May 1 to receivethe 2006 PreserveAmerica Presidential Award for The MarylandHeritage Areas Program, presented by PresidentBush and PreseNeAmerica Honorary Chair, Mrs. LauraBush.
The MarylandHeritage Areas Programis the resultof Maryland'srecognition that heritagetourism is a keyto economicdevelopment and is a sustainablepreservation strategy. The Stateof Marylandencourages the creationof local preservationand tourismetforts and offerssupport through the MarylandHeritage Areas Authority (MHAA). Sincethe program'sinception nine years ago, there are now 10 CertifiedHeritage Areas representing 18 counties I and62 municipalities,with three more pursuing certification. Every county in Marylandnow includes a heritagearea F withinits borders.
This is the third year the awardshave been presented. Each year, two awardsare given for activities advancingheritage tourism and two awardsare givenfor privatelyfunded historic preservation projects or programs. The recipientsare chosen through a nationalcompetition administered by the AdvisoryCouncil on Historic Preservationin cooperationwith the ExecutiveOffice of the Presidentand in partnershipwith variousgovernment agencies,committees and councils.The other2006 Preserve Ameaba Presidential Award recipients are MissionSan Luis,Hampton Hotels' The "Explorethe Highwaywith Hampton,Save-A-Landmarkru" program and The TauckWorld DiscoveryYellowstone-Guest-Volunteer Program.
For further informationabout this and other aspects of the Preselve America program,please visit www,preserveamenca. gov.
lnfotmationfor this atticlewas takenfrom www.prcSrveamedca.govlnews-0il1.htm|.
W M ?deuoroa. A&, /*, 2OO7 The 2006General Assembly ended its sessionwith continued support for preservationby passingthe Rehabilitation TaxCredit and the introduction ofthe BarnBill and Heritage Area Bill. Highlights are:
$30 millionfor commercialprojects under the RehabilitationTax Creditprogram (the residential program remainsa truetax credit and does not require a budgetappropriation). $3 millionfor the MarylandHeritage Area Authority(MHAA) to supportthe state's13 Certifiedand RecognizedHeritage Areas a $1.99million for operation support for history museums through the Museum Assistance Program a $600,000for capital grant funding for historicpreservation projects a $458,000for non-capital grant funding for historic preservation projects o $200,000for IMPARTgrants to fund graduatelevel internshipsand assistantshipsfor studentsin archaeology,museum studies and historic preservation. 1 a $53,600for support of theMaryland Humanities Council. o Agriculture Preservationof HistoricStructures. HB 699 (Barn Bill) establisheda MarylandAdvisory I Committeeon HistoricAgricultural Structure Preservation and Maryland Barn PreservationFund with expendituresupto $300,000per year. r MarylandHeritage Areas Authority Financing Fund - Time Limitations:HB 175 (HeritageArea Bill)will allow the MHAAto continueto use funds transterredto the programfrom ProgramOpen Spaceto be used to supportthe operatingexpenses of MHAA.
lntomation fot thisafticle was takenfton a PresevationMaryland Advocacy Alett!
E CALENDAROF EVENTS- JULYAND AUGUST 2006
- Jufy 2 ArtilleryDemonltr-ations by the FortWashington Guard at FortWashington Park;1,2 and3 PM;fee; for details call 301-263-4600 - July 9 Familysummer Fun at MariettaHouse Museum;2 s pM; reservations requiredby calling301 -464-5291; $3/person - July 9 An AfternoonofJtlystery at RiversdaleHouse Museum; authors will readfrom theirworks and bookswill be availablefor purchaseand signing;1 pM; $S, includeshouse tour and refreshments - July 15'23 1TthAnnuat Negdleaft 2006exhibit at MontpelierMansion; open daily; - fee Jufy 19 Qoncerton the Porticoby jazz violinistSusan Jones at RiversdaleHouse Museum;7 PM;free; grilled dinner available for purchase,call 301-g64-0420 for details - Jufy 22 Handson HistoY Dav for Yo-ungTime Travelersat BelairMansion; 12 - 4 PM;free; call 301-809-3089 for details - July 22 Histo\vDav at Homesponsored by the PrinceGeorge's County History Consortium;begins at 10AM; $3O/person; see separate articie for detaili July 23- HistorvW.eekendat Home at MariettaHouse Museum;1-4 pM;free - Jufy 29 Hands-OnHistorLD-qyfor g to 12-yearolds at MontpelierMansion; 10 AM - Noon;reservations required by cailing -Heritaae301-953-1376; $S/child - August 5 6t! lnnU.atAfriQqn-Am'grican Day sponsoredby the Accokeek Foundationat NationalColonial Farm; 12 - 6 PM,rain or shine; - $-3lperson August 6 ArtillerYDemongtrationsby the FortWashington Guard at FortWashington Park;1,2and 3 PM;fee; fordetails call 301-763-4600 - August6 FamilySummer Fun - "lceCream Social" at MariettaHouse Museum; 2 - 5 PM;reservations required by calling301 -464-s291; $3/person - August 12 Battleof Bl.adensbur:gEncampment at RiversdaieHouse Museum ; 12 - 4 PM;free admission to thegrounds, fee for housetour - August 13 Air MailDay, celebrating the 88thanniversary of the firstU.S. postal Air Mail flightat CollegePark Aviation Museum; 12 - 4 pM; regularmuseum admission August 19 Darnall'sChance House Museum; 8 AM - 5 PM; ieservationsand advanced paymentrequired, call 301-gS2-8010 fordetails - August 23 Concerton the Porticeat RiversdaleHouse Museum. 7 PM; free;grilled dinneravailable for purchase,call 301-864-0420 for details August 26 Hands-on HistoryDav at MontpelierMansion; 10 AM Noon: reservationsrequired by calling301-953-1 376: $5/child - ThruAugust 31 FavoriteSons of upperMarlbonc exhibit at Darnall'sChance House Museum;open during normal tour hours; regular tour admission - Thru November26 The Crimeof the Centuryexhibition at SurrattHouse Museum; includedin regulartour admission price - Thru May 2007 Rubthe Oilsand Strewthe Powders:The Legacyof EuropeanHerbs in EarlyAmerican Medicine and Cuisineexhibit at MontpetieiMansjon
Formore information about these and other events, please visit www.pgparks.com and www.p ri n cegeorgesm use u ms. org . /ez Sdle 1. Landmarks of Prince Georde's Countv* - 125 black and white photoglaphs of the rich architecturallegacy of Prince George's County by Jack E. Boucher. Arranged chronologically,the photos and captions offer a panoramicoverview of the counv's architecturaland historical development.Indexed. Hard.cover,144 pages. Price:tl8,00,
2. Prince Georoe's Countv: A Pictortal Histort - The hietory and essencoof Pfince ceorge's county come ativc in words and pictures in this beautiful collecto/s editlon. Written in a fascinating narrativewith more than 350 photographs,map3, and illustrations. Many of them arc in full color and ar€ previouslyunpublished. Authof: Alan Virta. 1998- Revisedand updatededition. Hardcover,308 pages. Prica:$42.95.
3. Joumev Throuch Time - A Pictorial Histotv of the Prince Georae's Countv Police Depaftment* - A history of the county police dEparbnentcovering over 200 yeaB, Author: Lt. Dsnnb Campbell. Indexed, Printed 1991. Hardcover,304 pages. Price:940.00.
1, Calvert of Marvland - Thls fact-basednovel 3howsthe home life of the colonistsfrom a child'6 viewpoint. This story is told in the first person by young GeorgoCalvert, god3on ofthe fii€t Lord Baltimore,ceorge Calvert. Reprintof Jam6 Otis Kaler'31910 publication. Hardcover,156 pages. Pen and ink illustratiom. Price: $6.95.
5. Atlas ot Fifteen Miles around Washinston includinq the Countv of Prtnce Georoe ltrarvland - Compited, drawn and published from actual surveys by G. M, Hopkins 1876 including "historical" sketches. Indexed. Reprint 1979. Soft covEr,32 pages. Price:910.00,
6. AAas of Pfince Georoe's Countv. Marvland 1E61- Atlas was adaptedfrom Martenefs Map of Prince George's County,Maryland, with informationfrom 1860federal census for sach eloction district. Indexed. Reprint1996. Soft cover,32 pages. Prlce;$10.00.
7. Prince Georae's Countv. Maruland. lndexes of Church Resisterc 1686-1885 - Volume| - ProtestantEpiscopal Church,King Gaorge'3Parish, and QueenAnne's Parish. Author: HelenW. Brown, Reprint2000. Soft cover, 200pages. Pdce: $1E.00,
8. Prince Georde's Countv, Marvland, lndexes of Church R€qisters 1686-1885- volume 2 - Prote3tantEpiecopal Church,St. Paul's Parish,and PrinceGeorg€'s Pari3h. Author: Helenw. Brown. Rapdnt2000. Soft covsr, 196 psges. Price:$18.00.
9. Out of the Past - Prlnce Georoeans ancl theit Lend - Chronicl€ of everydaylifs in Prince Geo|ge's County, Marylandfrom the time of its founding in 1676until the beginnlngof tho Civil War. (lnfonnationfor this book ryas gleanedfrom public roco/ds, newspapoF,end private papet:s.) Author: R. Lee Van Horn. Reprint 1996. HardcoveL422 pages. Prlcs:$20.00,
10, Ticentennial Cook Book - Contains recip€a collected from Prince George's County residents as part of the tricentennial celebratlon. Compiled and edited by Dorothy Rainwater and the TricentennialCelebration Committee.Printed 1996. Soft cover,spiral bound,150 pages. Price:$10.00. -Shipping and handling for books numbered l, 2, and 3 is $3.00for each copy of the book becauseof 3ize and weight. They are shipped separately.
Shipping and handling for all other books is $2.50 for the first book and 50 conts for each additionat book.
Shipping and handling for international orde6. Please call 301464.0590 or email the Historical Society for current postagerates.
Makechecks payable to: PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSoclety. Marylandresidents, please add 5%sales tax,
Mailyour order to: PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety PublicatlonSales P. O. Box 14 Riverdale.MD 20738-0014 ll ?aaoe qcnareb @ 7M Soctarl rl
DATE NEW RENEWAL NATI'E ADDRESS CITY,STATE, ZIP PHONE(HOME) (BUSTNESS) EMAIL MembershipCategory (Please check one) Sponsor: il Gold Level$500 O SilverLevel $250 D BronzeLevel S100 tr MemberlFamily$25 O SustainingMember $50 I InstitutionalMember $50 tr Life Member$300 tr AdditionalContribution o lam alsointerested in helplngthe Societyas a volunteer.Please contact me.
U Formembersh ip ln theMarutald Histo ca!Societv, include an addltlonal$30 for individualor i4{t for famity Pleasomake checks payable to PGCHSand mailyourcheck and ihis formto: PdnceGeorge's County HistodcalSociety, P. O. Box 14,Riverdale, MD 20738-{t0'14 Weare funded though your dues and contributions. Contributlons are tax deductible.We appreciateyour support
PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society P,O.Box 14 NON.PROFITORG. U.S. POSTAGEPAID Riverdale,MD 20738-0014 UpperMarlboro, MD PermitNo. 1948
I i'
ii'rl \ )Jh 'rll TO: A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society
XXXVNumber 5 September-October 2006
MARIETTAHOUSE MUSEUM (Homeof the PrinceGeorge's CountyHistorical Society)
FacilityManager: Susan Wolfe 5626Bell Station Road GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 301-464-5291 TTY 301-699-2544 /nile ?a,etne4 d, eoou,ttV?@ (Off Route193, near Route 450) A facilityof the Maryland-National Sqr4da//, Sepreotfun 24, 2006 CapitalPark and Planning Commission MARIETTAHOUSE TOURS 2p*t"5pa Friday,11 am to 3 pm Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4pm Weekday& eveningtours by appointmentonly MARIE TA HOUSEGIFT SHOP
Manager:Stella Uber {r 301-464-0590 OpenFriday, 11 amto 3 pm, Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto 4 pm (alsoopen during special events) FREDERICKS DEMARR LIBRARYOF COUNTY HISTORY Historian:Susan G. Pearl 301464-0590 OpenSaturday,12 noon to 4 Pm LECTURESERIES October 28th St. lgnatius Church in Port Tobacco. See article in newsletter for more information.
(Pleasesee Page3 for the storyof Bowievilleand morepictures)
PRINCEGEORGE'S COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY NIGHT CONCERT PRINCEGEORGE'S PHILHARMONIC, OCTOBER 1 4,2006 SEEARTICLE FOR TICKETS AND MOREINFORMATION Tfttr4rtcro. . . ?ne ?*cee q4nero'ofut&q
In July, over50 peopleparticipated in one of three Taatal Sacaq tour programsestablished by the Prince George'sCounty 5626Bell Station Road HistoryConsoftium. Each tour took visitorsto four sites in GlennDale, the countywhich were usedto interpretthe specifictopics of MD 20769-9120 "TillingRich and FeilileEarth: Early Farm Life", "Separate Phone:301464-0590 Lives & Shared Surroundings:African American History" or Email:[email protected] or 'Life Goes on:ContinuousUse of Historic Homes". ln [email protected] additionto the visitations,historians accompanied the tourists Website:www. pghistory. org on the bus ride betweensites to expandupon the information providedat each site. As the day was thoroughlyenjoyed by all the participants,the Consortium(a confederationof the President: John Petro county's historicsites and the DeMarr Library)is making Vice President:JamesWolfe plans to reprisethis event next year if not expandit to other Secretary: DustyRhoads timesduring the year. Treasurer: Donna ln September,our historicalsociety will host the Schneider annual'Prince of a CountyReception' at the newly restored Historian SusanG. Pearl Bowieville.The attentionto detailedrestoration at this 1819 Editor: JudySchneider (410-721-2183 ) site is absolutelybreathtaking. From its restored plaster email: [email protected] moldingsto its faux grainedfinishes to its restoredmarble Membership: DonnaSchneider and Anna and glass, from the entry stairs to the widow's walk, every aspectof this buildingis a renewedwork of art. Holmes October 14 is a night out to attend the Prince Directors: Anna Holmes, Lynn Roberts, George'sPhilharmonic Sponsored by the HistoricalSociety Andrew Wallace, William Uber, Joyce Dowling, and on October28'n our lectureseries takes us to St. lgnatius Wallis Cain, Elizabeth Dougherty, Hannah Cox Tobacco. Churchin Port Charles Hendricks, Jane Dodd, Dan Louck, Next May, our historicalsociety will co-sponsorthe and Prince George'sCounty portion of Maryland'sHome and NathaniaBranch-Miles GardenPilgrimage. This will encompass8 historichomes Newsletter contributors: Susan G. Pearl, and/orgardens which are notordinarily open to the public. John Petro, Jim Wolfe, Jane Dodd, Donna Many opportunitiesto visit historicstructures Schneider, and Judy Schneider part are available. Each offersa of the book of our Printer: MinuteMan Press, 410-451-0218 past. collective Each unique chapter allows us to All membersof the PrinceGeorge's County appreciatefrom whence we've come and to what HistoricalSociety are invitedand welcometo attend page -- we've become. Don'tmiss a of this story visit Society board meetings. We meet at the Marietta an historicsite! Mansion one Saturdayeach month at 9:30 am September 9 and October 7. (Datesare subjectto change. Call to confirmthe date if you would like to Tnatc6 7/r* Sneaoaol attend.) News &'Nofes is publishedsix timesa year. The PGCHSwould like to say thankyou again You are invitedto submit a relevantarticle for print for yourgenerous donation to the Societythis year. (subjectto space limitations).The deadlinefor the deadline for the November-Decemberissue is October15. ?Utmt* ^Qetl€l lf you would like to volunteeryour time and RobertM. DeMarr talentsto the HistoricalSociety in any capacity,please call us. We'd love to have you join us. All ages are qd{ Zercl definitelywelcomel ezStorage PetroDesign/Build, Inc. (SponsorsContinued)
Sdua ^4et€l Edwardand EvamariaHawkins TheWixon Family KennethF. Hodges g,rarcro^4ert€/ Dan Louck Douglasand SusanMcElrath HannahC. Cox BarbaraM. Murphy lnc. CraftworksDesign PrinceGeorge's County Historical & CulturalTrust E. H. T. Traceries,lnc. Robinsonand Associates CarlP. Glaum Judyand KenSchneider HenryHarmann VictoriaThompson 2 (Bowieville,Continued from Page 1)
The PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society is exceedinglyfortunate to celebrate our annual Prince of a County event at Bowieville, one of the County's most outstandinghistorical and architecturalgems, on Sunday, September 24, 2006 from 2-s pm. Bowieville has been inaccessiblefor more than 35 years,but afterall of theseyears of neglect and deterioration,the house has finally been restored, and will be the centerpiece of a developing residential community. The HistoricalSociety is pleased that MontgomeryDevelopment, the company that has effected Bowieville'srestoration, has invitedus to have our annualreception and Bowieville,exterior, 1936 fundraiserat the beautifulplantation house. Bowieville is an elegant plantation houseof the late Federalstyle, built of brick and coveredwith stucco. The entranceis in the centralbay of the five-bayprincipal south fagade through a doubledoor withformal classical enframement:two setsof engagedDoric columns, surmounted by a semi-ellipticalleaded fanlight withand full entablature.The interiorplan of Bowievilleis formal,embellished with outstanding decorativedetail. The doorand window surrounds replicate fluted Doric columns and the bullseye cornerblocks echo the same fluted profile;plaster medallions in the foyer and parlorsare composedof acanthusleaves and papyrusstalks. Thereis an elegantinterior fanlight in the dividingwall betweenthe two formalparlors, which are furtherembellished by two fine marble mantels.Jib doorslead from these two northparlors onto the semi-ellipticalnorth porch, a 1940 replacementof the originalporch. The secondstory of the main blockis composedof bed chambers,now adapted for useas offices.A two-storywing extends to the east. Bowievilleis locatedin east centralPrince George's County, in that rich agriculturalarea knownas "The Forest." The land on which it standswas part of the extensivelandholdings of GovernorRobert Bowie (1750-1818) early in the nineteenthcentury. Robert Bowie was elected Governorof Marylandand served 1803-06 and 1811-12. He residedat TheCedars in Nottingham, and,in additionto his landsin "TheForest," he maintaineda largeplantation known as Maftaponi inthe ruralarea between Nottingham and Croom. GovernorBowie died in 1818,and by his will he left his variouslands to his wife and children;to his eldestdaughter, Mary, by then twice widowed,he devisedthe landshe had recentlypurchased in "TheForest" of PrinceGeorge's County north of St. Barnabas'Church at Leeland.Mary Bowie had been born in 1776,and had married TurnerWootton in 1794;the young couple residedat Ess,''ngfon,the Wootton family plantationnear Queen Anne Town. Turner Woottondied in 1796,and Mary was left with an infantson; in 1801she married for a secondtime, thistime to a cousin,Thomas Contee Bowie, who, according to familytradition, had wooed but not won her the firsttime around. The secondmarriage was moresuccessful and certainlymore productive;they had nine childrenin 13 years,while continuingto resideat Essingfon.This marriagealso was cut short by the death of ThomasContee Bowie in 1813. It is likelythat Mary BowieWootton Bowie had contemplatedthe buildingof a grand mansionon the landthat she expectedto inheritfrom herfather; she no doubtwanted to establish a homefor herselfand her nineyounger children after her eldest son attained his majority (1816). Soonafter her father died in January1818, and she cameinto legal possession of the property, she acquiredadjoining land, and, on the combinedacreage (850 acres which she thenceforthcalled Bowieville), began the design and construction of this extraordinaryhouse. The new housewas begunbefore the end of 1818,and completedwithin a few years. From contemporary descriptions,it is clearthat this was from the beginning an expensive and unusuallyelegant dwelling, constructed of the best materials. Bowievillemay also be uniquein that it was apparently conceived,planned and carriedout by a single woman, most unusualfor that periodin our history. The widow Bowie had only a very Bowieville.interior. 1 936 short time to enjoy her masterpiece. In May 1824,the financingof the buildingproject was beingmanaged by herfriend and agent,George Calvert of Riversdale,and she was still paying for the last 150,000bricks for the finishingof the house. In Ocioberof the sameyear, she purchasedone dozen walnut trees for the grounds.But she died after a shortillness, at age55, in Augustof 1825. Uponher secondson, RobertBowie, whose 2l" birthdayhad occurredin Aprilof 1825,fell the burdenof administeringhis mother'sestate. The settlingof the estate provedto be difficult,and young RobertBowie went considerablyinto debt in attemptingto buy out the individualinterests of his siblings.Eventually he was forcedto sellBowr'evll/e, but he continuedto managethe plantationuntil the salewas completedin '1846.lt wasduring this 20- yearperiod that a sketchwas madeof the Bowievillemansion; it showsthe originalconfiguration of the buiiding(with one centraldoor in the southfagade of the wing),a gardenfence on the west,and a gate intothe terracedgardens on the east. ln January1844, the NationalIntelligencer (published in Washington,D.C.) recorded the offerfor saleof ". . . thatvaluable plantation . . . calledBowieville, containing 7M a$es of land. It aboundsin woodand meadow land and is wellwatered. The dwelling, built at greatcost, and outof thebest materials, stands on a commandingeminence, overlooking a beautiful country. lt has every necessaryoutbuilding, with tobaccohouses sufficient to cure 80 hogsheadsof tobacco. . . The plantationlies in the centerof that delightfulregion of countryknown as The Forestof PrinceGeorge's County which for beautifulscenery, salubrity of climate,natural fertility of soil,present high stateof agriculturalimprovement, as well as for the respectabilityof the inhabitants,and elevatedand refinedstate of society,cannot be surpassedby any sectionof the countryin the UnitedStates. When all these advantages are considered, together with its vicinity to thethree great marts for all agriculturalproductions, viz., Baltimore, Annapolis, and the District of Columbia,. . . it is deemedone of the mostdesirable country seats that has ever been offered eitherto the speculatoror loverof rurallife.' In January1846, Bowieville was purchasedby WilliamJ. Berry,with the help of his father-in-law,Thomas Clagett Vl of Weston(Upper Marlboro).Bowieville became the plantationhome of SarahEliza (Clagett) and William J. Berry andtheir family for threegeneraiions. Local tradition records many notable social occasions at the mansionduring this period. Later, as the homeof theirson, Jeremiah Berry, Bowieville was magnificentlymaintained, and continuedits reputationas the socialcenter of centralPrince George'sCounty. 4 It is importantto documentnot only the wealthyproprietors and their families, but also the total populationof this large plantation,i.e., the laborforce at Bowieville. The 850-acre plantationwas worked by between27 and 31 enslavedpeople during the few years that Mary Bowie lived there with her family. In 1846,when William J. Berry took over the plantation(recorded at that time as 617 acres),his laborforce was madeup of 36 slaves. Bothhis land holdings and his slaveforce increasedover the years, so that by the time of the CivilWar, he had a slaveforce of 63 individuals,working both at Bowieville and at his somewhat smaller Chelseaplantation about a mileto the west. Surveyof the entireBowieville acreage has revealedno Bowieville, exteriOr,2006 informationon the locationof slaves'quarters, although it is possiblethat someof the late lgtYearly2Oth-century tenanthouses that stood on the largeracreage were built on the foundationsor theapproximate locationsof thosequarters. After the deathof Mary LawrenceBerry (thirdgeneration of the Berryfamily), Bowieville wassold in 1935to Haroldand MaryKnapp, who undertooksome renovations of themore than 10o-year-oldmansion. One was the replacementof the originalrectangular north porch with the presenthandsome semi-elliptical porch. In the master(northwest) bed chamber,they built in a wallof closets,carefully replicating the originaltrim on the newlyinstalled doors, and preserving originaldetails such as chair+ailand baseboards.Once again,Bowieville was lovingly tended andmaintained by itsowner-residents. After the deathsof Haroldand Mary Knapp,a long dark periodbegan for the Bowieville property.Purchased by a developerin 1970,the houseand grounds were for decades minimally caredfor whilea seriesof contractpurchasers tried to initiateplans for developmentof the large property.Inevitably, the housebegan to deteriorate,and suffered not only serious water damage, buteventually some vandalism. During this period,the HistoricalSociety was actively involved in attemptsto preservethe house,as were other membersof the preservationcommunity, in particularPrince George's Heritage and the architecturestaff at the Universityof Maryland.For manyyears, little progress was made, but earlyin the newcentury, the propertywas acquired by MontgomeryDevelopment and planswere madefor a largeresidential golfcourse community. We were worried,of course,but we need not have been,for the principalsof Montgomery Developmentmust have fallen in love with Bowieville,as so many of us alreadyhad. They electedto restorethe mansionto serve as their officesand as the centerpiece(with a 14-aqe landscapedsetting) of the development.They have taken an interestin the historyof the plantationand all who livedand worked there. Theyhired an outstandingrestoration architect, and in the last four yearshave lavishedan abundanceof time, moneyand expertiseon the house,and they have come out with a truegem! Now,after years of neglect,Bowieville is again restoredto itsformer beauty and prominence, and the HistoricalSociety is delightedto be ableto have its annualPrince of a Countyreception and fundraiserthere. You should haveprobably alreadyreceived your invitation. Call 301-464-0590 if you needmore invitations or if youhaven't receivedyour invitation. -Susan G.Pearl, Historian 5 SAVETHE DATE AND BE SURETO ATTEND
SATURDAY,OCTOBER 14, 2AA6 8:00p.m.
THEPRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY WILL BE JOINING THEPRINCE GEORGE'S PHILHARMONIC at the first Prince George's County Historical SocietyNight Concert
HallamTheater, Queen Anne Fine Arts Building PrinceGeorge's Community College 301Largo Road (MD 2021, Largo
Offenbach: Orpheus in the Underworld Overture Haydn: Cello Concerto in C Major Dvorak: Symphony A/o.8
CharlesEllis, Conductor/Music Director NarekHakhazaryan, Cello, Winnerof 2006Johansen lnternational Competition
(Forinformation about tickets, etc., call Susan Pearl at 301-262-3367.)
The PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society is pleasedto support the PrinceGeorge's Philharmonic.
ST. IGNATIUSCHURCH IN PORTTOBACCO
The HistoricalSociety's lecture series/tour will take you to visitSt. lgnatiusChurch in PortTobacco. DATE:Saturday, October 28 TIME:Vans will leave Marietta Mansion House at I am sharoand will return mid afternoon COST: Freeto SocietyMembers, $5 for Non-Members LUNCH:Captain Billy's Crab House. You may order off their complete menu. Everyonewill be responsiblefor paymentfor theirlunch
For moreinformation, call or leavea messagefor JaneDodd at 301-2496409-Reservations are required
St. lgnatiuswas foundedby FatherAndrew White in 1641and is the oldestchurch with continuous pastoratein Maryland.The site chosenfor thisvery significant church is one of the mostbeautiful in our state. lt sits highabove the PortTobacco River on ChapelPoint with a magnificentview. You can imaginethe feelingsof the earlyworshipers after years of persecutionin England.There is a miraclestory of FatherWhite and an injured Indian.The designof the OldChapel was changed to conformto the lawsof suppressionof Catholicswhen "no one may enter a Roman Catholic Chapel except through a private residence." The docents are very knowledgeableand sharetheir deep feelings of affectionand respectfor this historicalhouse of worship.There is no setfee, but a donationis appreciated. Thereis a slavehouse and an attachedtunnel that is not fullyexplored. The cemeterydates from 1860 andsuffered damage atthe handsofthe UnionArmy, Thisarea has many interesting stories from that time. We wouldlike to knowhow many will be going with us to enjoythis day, so pleasecall Jane. lt willhelp us planfor transportationand lunchreservations. We hopeto haveseveral ten-passenger vans on thatday. I CALENDAROF EVENTS Sept.3 - ArtilleryDemonstrations by the Fort Washington October7 - ColonialDay at NationalColonial Farm; 12-4 PM; Guardat FortWashington Park; 1, 2 and3 PM;fee; rainor shine; $2/person fordetails call 301-763-4600 October10 - "Sexwith Kings" at BelairMansion; a discussion Sept4 - ThirdAnniversary Party at the lce CreamFactory & of the currentbest seller with the authorEleanor Caf6in Brandywine,Call 301 -782-3444 for more Herrman;7:30 PM; donation requested; for more informatioin informationcall 301 -809-3089 Sept.9 - Belairon the CivilWar Homefront at Belair Mansion; October 14 - PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society 10AM-4 PM; free Night Concert at PrinceGeorge's Community Sept.9-10 - RomanLegion XX Encampmentat Marietta College,8 PM (See article in this Newsletter) HouseMuseum; 10AM-4 PM; free October18 - Fall HistoryLecture Series at Montpelier Sept.9-10 - Hands-OnHistoryr Day at MontpelierMansion; 10 Mansion;Elizabeth Stabler Garrettson will speak AM- Noon;reservations required by calling 301-953- aboutthe historyof the SandySpring community; 1376;$7/child 7:30PM; free Sept.12 - "BestFoot Forward" at BelairMansion; Costume October 20-21- Mayhemin MarlboroughGhost Walk at historianand collectorMary Doeringexplores Darnall'sChance House Museum; 7-10 PM; tours shoes...andother things!;7:30 PM; donation every20 minutes; ages 6 andolder; fee requested;for more information call 301-809-3089 October22 - Iales of Spinfsat SurrattHouse Museum; Sept.16 - TheIncredible Prince George's History Challenge! "Songsand Storiesof Halloween"with Matthew Teamsof 4 willtravel around Prince George's County Dodd;7 PM;free to performtasks based on clues. The teamthat October28 - Fall HistoryLecture Series sponsored by the completesallthe tasks in the least amount of time will PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society. St. receivea fabulousgrand prize. Register your team lgnatiusChurch in PortTobacco. (See article in this by calling301-952-8010; fee is $30per team and Newsletter.) mustbe paidin advance;teams must provide own October28 - Campfireand Storytellingat MariettaHouse transportation Museum;bring flashlight for nighttimescavenger Sept.16-17 - 4tnAnnual lvlaryland Lighthouse Challenge Ihe hunt;light refresments; 7 PM; $3/person (Rain date ChesapeakeChapter of theU.S. Lighthouse Society October29 from 5:30-7:30 PM) invitesyou to visit10 of Maryland'sland-based October 28-29 Hands-OnHistory Day at Montpelier lighthouses.This is the only weekendthat Fort Mansion;10 AM - Noon;reservations required by Washingtonlighthouse is opento the public.Fort calling301 -953-1 376; $Tichild WashingtonPark, B AM-6 PM, fee; call 301-763-4600 fordetails ThruAugust 31 - FavoriteSons of UpperMarlboro exhibit at Sept.20 - FallHistory Lecture Series at MontpelierMansion; Darnall'sChance House Museum; open during EarlEisenhart will discussthe exploitsof Captain normaltour hours; regular tour admission W.W.W.Bowie and his adventureswith Mosby's ThruNovember 26 - TheCrime of the Century exhibition at Rangersduring the War between the states; 7:30 PM; SunattHouse Museum; included in regulartour free admissionprice Sept.23-24 - WorldWar I Encampmentat MariettaHouse Thru May2007 - Rubthe Oilsand Strew the Powders:The Museum;10AM-4 PM; fee Legacy of EuropeanHerbs in Early American Sept.24 - Princeof a CountyReception at Bowieville, 2-5 PM; Medicineand Cuisine exhibitat Montpelier Mansion $40/person;mail check payable to PGCHSto 4701 ColonelEwell Ct, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 Formore information about these and other events, please Sept.24 - FallFest at BowieTrain Station; 10 AM-5 PM; free; visitwww. pg parks. com and www. pri nceg eorg esm useu ms.org. call301-809-3089 fordetails Sept.30 - JohnCarroll Catholic Heritage Bus Tour to Western VETERANS HISTORYREPORT Irtlarylandsponsored by Damall'sChance; 8 AM-6 The CollegePark Aviation Museum is participatingin the PM;fee; advanced registration required, call 301 -952- VeteransHistory Project, a nationwideprogram documenting 8010for details thestories of warveterans and civilians involved inwar efforts. October1 - ArtilleryDemonstrations by the FortWashington lf youwould like to shareyour experiences, please call the Guardat FortWashington Park; 1, 2 and3 PM;fee; museumto setup an appointment foran interview at 301-864- fordetails call 301-763-4600 6029 October7 - InternationalFestival inBowie; 11 AM-5 PM; call 301-809-3078 fordetails Ecterob@TMSacuq 4
DATE NEW RENEWAL NAME ADDRESS CITY,STATE, ZIP PHONE(HOME) (BUSTNESS) EMAIL MembershipCategory (Please check one) Sponsor: D PlatinumLevel $1000 D Gold Level $500 il Silver Level $250 il BronzeLevel $100 E Member/Family$25 E SustainingMember $50 I InstitutionalMember $50 tr Life Member$300 tr AdditionalGontribution
E lam also interestedin helpingthe Societyas a volunteer. Pleasecontact me.
E For membershipin the MarvlandHistoical Societu,include an additional$30 for individualor $40for family Pleasemake checkspayable to PGCHSand mail your checkand this form to: PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety, P. O. Box 14, Riverdale,MD 20738{1014
We arefunded though yourdues and contributions. Contributions are tax deductible, We appreciate your support.
PrinceGeorge's County HistoricalSociety NON.PROFTTORG. P.O.Box 14 U. S. POSTAGEPAID Riverdale,MD 2A738-0414 UpperMarlboro, MD PermitNo. 1948
TO: ffi
w A Publicationof the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society XXXV Number6 November-December2006
MARIETTAHOUSE MUSEUM (Homeof the PrinceGeorge's CountyHistorical Society) rfi'caaal TTtedrrc The 2006"qO*S annual meeting of the Prince George'sCounty FacilityManager: Susan Wolfe HistoricalSociety will be held on the eveningof Monday,November 6 5626Bell Station Road at the BelairMansion in Bowie.Following dinner and the electionof the GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 SocietyOfficers and Boardof Directors,historian and Societymember 301-464-5291 TTY 301-699-2544 VirginiaBeauchamp will speak about Marylandwomen livingin the (OffRoute 193, near Route 450) 1gthcentury. A facilityof the Maryland-National CapitalPark and Planning Belair is an elegant Commission five-part Georgian brick MARIETTAHOUSE TOURS Friday,'11 am to 3 pm mansion,built in the 1745 Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto for SamuelOgle, provincial 4om Governorof Maryland. lt Weekday& eveningtours by passedto his son,Benjamin appointmentonly Ogle,who himselfserved as MARIETTAHOUSE GIFT SHOP Manager.Stella Uber Governor of the State of 301-464-0590 Maryland(1798-1801), and OpenFriday, 11 am to 3 pm, maintained Belair as his Saturday& Sunday,12 noonto country seat. A third 4 pm (alsoopen during special generation of the Ogle events) FREDERICKS DEMARR $+$ffi eer311 LIBRARYOF COUNTY rrri..?.*iiffiiii'i'ii* lryyhome UntilT:,d"_- aftef the 1;ilCiVil HISTORY War. At the end of the nineteenthcentury, after a seriesof shortterm Historian:Susan G. Pearl owners,the Belair estate was purchasedby James T. Woodward. 301-464-0590 Succeedinggenerations of the Woodwardfamily enlarged the mansion, OpenSaturday, 12 noonto 4 pm LECTURESERIES builtthe stonestable building, and developedthe estateinto a thriving farm famedfor the breedingof thoroughbredrace horses. The Belair Ft; F@ ts4! !& Fe F& !& F4! f& 3eB nQ !Q $\ {\ {\ {\ $\ {\ g\ g\ 4\ $\ {\ {\ farm was purchased in 1957 by William Levitt who began the F4 |ib tL nruruuALHoLIDAY t: developmentof the residentialsubdivision of "Belairat Bowie,"which is {'L PARrY XL now a majorpart of the City of Bowie. The mansionand stablewere - 2-5PM |s oec. eTH if later restored and opened to the public as museums and rental i.3 AT MARIETTA .r,r {B {a h4 &46 hQ !a$ F@ F* r€a h46 th.& $* F* facilities, q\ q\ $\ g\ ft\s S\ $B $\ {\ $\ 4\ $\ A separate invitationis being sent to all HistoricalSociety members. lf you have not yet receivedyour invitation,please contact Jim Wolfe at 301-464-3442ASAP. This promises to be a very enjoyableevening and we lookfonruard to seeingyou there. -- SusanPearl, Historian M"l/zarrro... 1Ae ?,tne q4t'tto'o Qaantq
Selectingour leadership through the ballot box is taken Teoatal Saaaf for grantedby mostof us,but reflection indicates a far different 5626Bell Station Road reality,The majority of the world'spopulation do nothave the GlennDale, MD 20769-9120 opportunityto select who leads them as theylive in countrieswith Phone:301-464-0590 governmentswhich are far from democratic and the people's voice Email:[email protected] or in howthey are governed is weak or non-existent.Notbeing able [email protected] personsto leadthem was the main impetus compelling our toelect Website:www. pghistory. org forefathersto fightthe AmericanRevolution to correctthese wrongs.They subsequently established a state constitution in 1776declaring Maryland free and independent of British tyranny President: JohnPetro andEngland's undemocratic system. This Maryland Constitution of Vice President:JamesWolfe 1776did not take the giant leap to full democratization. Power was Secretary: DustyRhoads placedin thehands of thecounties of thestate, not the people, Treasurer: DonnaSchneider Eachcounty, regardless of population, had equal power in the Historian SusanG. Pearl legislatureand Baltimore and Annapolis were allowed special equal Editor: Ju dy Sch n e id er (410-721 -2183 ) powereven though they were far from equal in population. Future email:panamfa@comcast. net constitutionsand amendments changed these inequities but the Membership: DonnaSchneider and Anna conceptwas not fully realized untilthe 1970's. oneman, one vote Holmes Lackof respectfor thecommon man and reluctance to Directors. Anna Holmes, Lynn Roberts, placeany power in their hands led these governmental founders to placerestrictions on the rightto voteby: propertyownership, Andrew Wallace, William Uber, Joyce Dowling, religion,race, gender and age. These limitations were eliminated Wallis Cain, Elizabeth Dougherty, Hannah Cox oraltered in 1803,1826,1870, 1920 and 1971 respectively. Charles Hendricks, Jane Dodd, Dan Louck, and Sincegovernors had beenappointed by the colonial NathaniaBranch-Miles Proprietorsor the king, weak executives were a necessityof our Newsletter contributors:Susan G. Pearl, earlygovernment Governors were elected by thelegislature for John Petro, Jim Wolfe, Wallis Cain, Diane Stultz, oneyear terms. In the mid 19th century the term was lengthened to Dusty Rhoads, Lynn Roberts, Donna Schneider, threeyears and the peoplegained the rightof selectionbut and Judy Schneider of the governorswere rotated among three regions the state: Printer:MinuteMan Press, 410-451-0218 SouthernMaryland and WesternMaryland. EasternShore, All membersof the PrinceGeorge's County four yeat gubernatorialterms were finally Popularlyelected HistoricalSociety are invitedand welcometo attend of 1851. establishedbythe Constitution Society board meetings. We meet at the Marietta democratizationin Maryland has been Theassent to Mansion one Saturdayeach month at 9:30 am lengthyand arduous. On the 6th of November,the Society will November 4, December 9. (Dates are subject to its electiondinner meeting at thehome (Belair) convenefor annual change. Call to confirmthe date if you would like to governors oftwo of seven Maryland connectedtoour county. After attend.) officerson Monday,you are encouragedto votingfor Society News & /Vofesis publishedsix times a year. your in election Tuesday exercise franchiseby voting thestate on You are invitedto submita relevantarticle for print me/'. (subjectto space limitations).The deadline for the January-Februaryissue is December15. 74an6 7/r* Spaaaaaol lf you would like to volunteeryour time and talentsto the HistoricalSociety in any capacity,please The PGCHSwould like to say thankyou again call us. We'd loveto haveyou join us. All agesare for yourgenerous donation to the Societythis year. definitelywelcome!
(SponsorsContinued) ?Ueaaao ^4et/€/ RobertM. DeMarr Edwardand EvamariaHawkins q"44 ZeKl KennethF. Hodges DanLouck ezStorage Douglasand Susan McElrath PetroDesignlBuild, Inc. BarbaraM. Murphy Stn a ^4etel PrinceGeorge's County Historical & CulturalTrust TheWixon Family Robinsonand Associates Judyand Ken Schneider Saoarte^4er/€/ VictoriaThompson HannahC. Cox ?ata Eeiate'o fuictq Ttaloual Sacruq SLATE OF OFFICERSFOR 2006_2007
Join us for our AnnualMeeting on Monday,November 6, 2006at the Belair Mansion, 12207Tulip Grove Drive, Bowie,for a wonderfuldinner and a presentationon 19th century women in Maryland
President: JohnPetro Vice President: LynnRoberts Wewalk in thefootsteps of /hosewho went before us; buf we may also Secretary. DustYRhoads makeour own mark in ourcommunity, leaving foolsteps for othersto follow, DonnaSchneider Treasurer: The"Walk of History"interpretive sign is now in place Historian: SusanG. Pearl nearthe baseof the ClockTower located at the walkway NewsletterEditor: JudYSchneider betweenthe CountyAdministration Building and the Membership: DonnaSchneider Courthousein UpperMarlboro, Members and friends are highlyencouraged to stop by andsee it! Sponsoredby the BOARDOF DIRECTORS PrinceGeorge's County Historical Society, the sign explains the "Walkof History"program to the public.lt is colorful, 1 Year Term informativeand couldnot havebeen so beautifullyand WallisCain successfullydone without the assistanceof ChrisWagnon, ElizabethDougherty DivisionChief, Natural & HistoricalResources, Maryland- Park PlanningCommission, who JoyceDowling NationalCapital & originally suggestedthat this sign was very much needed. The Board Hendricks Charles andmembership would like to thankhim once more, along withJan Turner, Kathleen Addario and other members of his 2 YearTerm stafffor their advice, creative design and the final installation DanLouck ofthe sign, NathaniaBranch-Miles Begunin 1996by the TricentennialCelebration WilliamUber Committee,the "Walkof History"was conceivedas an AndrewWallace enduringartifact to commemoratethe County'srich and diverseculture and the contributions of its residents, past and 3 YearTerm present,Located in the CountySeat of UpperMarlboro, the granite ElizabethLingg brickwalkway contains sections with centerstones honoringpast Prince Georgians who have contributed to the fack Thompson, Jr. cultureof theCounty and these are surrounded byinscribed LawrenceWinston brickscontributed by presentcitizens and groups in honorof theirfamily, friends or businesses,So far, the sections that *** Nominationswill be accePted *** havebeen completed contain names of Prince Georgians from fromthe floor the18th, 19th and 20th centuries, The recently completed fourth section,sponsored by the PrinceGeorge's County Historical Thank you to James Wolfe, Anna Societycommemorates itsfounders. Holmes,and HannahCox for servingon the Whoare theseFounders? Successive News and give Boardfor the pastthree Years Notesarticles will somebrief biographies. In the meantime,visit the County Seat and see the new sign. The Additionaldetails about the Annual PrinceGeorge's Historical Society is pleasedto continue to be part project Meetingwill be mailedto a ofthis andits collective history. You. - LynnRoberts and Wallis Cain 3 i)tr 544/4lq' Taledaqo, S@4, ' la, Ed/to, taftr, VCw fuoe7Ao Uraarul do., do.
lF_ "t:.^... ''. Hate shopping? Do you leave it til the last minute? Well the Prince George's The LibraryStaff has had the opportunity County Historical Society can make your to assist several interesting groups of shoppingfast, easy, painless, and can be done researchersin the last few months. We have allat once! assistedstaff of the City of Bowiein conducting research on William Plains,the 1gth century 1. Purchasea membershipto the plantationhouse of the Johnson and Mulikin Societyfor a familymember or friend. familieslocated in WhitemarshPark and recently 2. They alreadyhave a member-ship? acquiredby the City. Assistancehas also been Upgrade them or yourself and become a given to a group of research professionals, Sponsor. There are four levelsof sponsorhip contractedby the Maryland-NationalCapital Park - one for every pocketbook.Need more info? & Planning Commission,with methods of CallElizabeth Dougherty at 301-680-3976. developing a predictivemodel for plantation 3. Considermaking a donationto the layout necessaryto carry out the County's libraryin their name or again do it for directivefor learningas muchas possibleabout yourself. the dwellingsand burials of enslavedAfrican 4. Do you or they liketo read? Check Americansbefore the land is compromisedby outthe Society'sbook list on page7. development.We havealso introduced research 5. Visit our Gift Shop. There are tons sourcesand methodsto an interndeveloping an of thingsfor bothadults and children.The Gift on-line presentation on slavery in Prince Shop is open on Friday(11 am to 3 pm), George'sCounty for the SmithsonianInstitution's Saturday,Sunday, (12 to 4 pm) and during AnacostiaMuseum of African-AmericanHistory specialevents at Mariettasuch as the Holiday andCulture. CandlelightTours (December2-4,6 to 8.30 The library has received of Carole L. pm) Herrick's new book, August 24, 1814: - 6. And the easiestof all giftsto buy Washington in Flames. This book includes - a gift certificate for the MarylandHouse & quotationsfrom an unusuallylarge number of GardenPilgrimage. The certificateis good for primary source materials. We look fonrvardto any 2007 tour. Cost: $25. Make your check includinga review of Ms. Herrick'sbook in a outto PGCHSand mail to PGCHS,PO Box 14, futureedition of NEWSAND NOTES. Riverdale,MD 20738-001 4 - SusanG. Pearl,Historian PGCHSLibrary Staff WTeoatalTnant 2OO7 ?aeturaato l&natdo Sdetano Trzla'rr/ Re,pnnl
The Maryland Historical Trust is The College Park AviationMuseum is accepting nominations for their 2007 participatingin the Veterans HistoryProject, a PreservationAwards. Nominationforms can nationalwideprogram documenting the storiesof be found at www.marylandhistoricaltrust.net war veteransand civiliansinvolved in war efforts. under"What's New." Completedforms must be lf you would like to share your experiences, postmarked by December 15, 2006. pleasecall the Museumto set up an appointment Questions?Contact Scott Whipple at 410-514- for an interviewat 301-864-6029. 7635or [email protected]. 4 GiannettiHome -National Historic Register Built 1840 HitchingPost Hill (Ash Hill),University Hills, Maryland 11fireplaces, 1.8 acres,120' wrap around porch with 18 columns. VirtualTour at www.gordonking.com
Thismansion is offeredfor saleat $899,000. Fordetails contact Gordon & PamelaKing Longand FosterRealtors Direct301-417-9200 Otftce-240-497-1700
r- GiannettiHome-Priced Below Appraisal-$8gg,000. FeaturesGiannetti Studios Ornamental Plaster Details
r g006 Ttoreo aad Recuezro
Early Recordsof the White Marsh Church,Prince George's County,Maryland. Author: Rob Roy Ratliff.(Bowie, MD: PrinceGeorge's County Genealogical Society, 2005.) Paperback, spiral bound,8 %by 11,402pages. $24.95 (plus $2.60 shipping), Maryland residents add 5% sales tax. TheWhite Marsh Church, now Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bowie,was called"a sortof Catholiccapital in the UnitedStates in the first days of its independence"and "the cradleof Catholicityin Maryland"in articlesdescribing an 1874 pilgrimagethere by Baltimoreand WashingtonCatholics. lt beganas a chapelon the privateproperty of WhiteMarsh Plantation wherethe Jesuitshad establisheda missionby 1722. The Plantation,14 milesfrom Annapolis, grewto 4,000acres and in 1832had 104 slaves. The historyof the church,which defied Maryland's religious and social laws, is summarized in the preface.A firein 1853destroyed many records. The lateMsgr. John F. Hogan,to whomthe book is dedicated,worked to preservethose that survived.He providedcopies of manuscripts, mostin Latin,to our Societyin 1995and ledthe translation.The introductionacknowledges the manyindividuals who workedwith the PrinceGeorge's County Genealogical Society's dedicated PublicationsCommittee to producethis book. Thisvolume is dividedinto four books: two of diarieskept by pastors1853-1 892 and 1897- 1904; baptismalrecords 1853-1872 (including confirmation records of 16 Sep 1860);and a catalogueof membersin 1819, baptisms1819-1 833, marriages 1818-1857 (incomplete), burials 1819-1822and 1874-1897 and communions 1819. These scattered records reveal much about the churchand the peopleit served.Each ofthe bookshas a nameindex. Diaryentries cover a wide varietyof topics,the weather,picnics (for white and colored), travel,deaths (George Beall, 83, buriedin a Protestantgraveyard "By some mistake"), visitations, makingroot beer and cider ("Tworaisins were put in each bottleto give life and strength"), expenses,collections, garden seeds, tree planting, horses, making "arrangements" for a newcalf, ^+^ The vital recordsare a sourceof invaluableinformation to genealogists-especiallyfor AfricanAmericans. They often provide details beyond the basicsof names,dates, ages, events, etc. Forexample, an entryon 1 May 1890records the baptismof HansonClarke,65, "in pointof death"and "married him at the sametime to AnnieAllan." Individuals may be identifiedas "white," "black,""colored," "free" "slave" "legitimate"or not and as "converts,""non-Catholic" and "Protestants"and by associationswith others. The 12 May 1821baptism, for example,of "Thomas HenryBristol, 9 mo.old, son of John(free) and Rachel(servant of Mrs.Herriot Smith)." C. Clark Magruder,76, was buried7 Apr 1884"in privatecemetery" (as was RichardH. Magruder,42,24 Septhe sameyear). The remains of CharlesHill, 59, who was buried27 Nov1879, were "removed '1887." to MarlbourghNov. 21 , Someentries cite locations of birth,death or residence.In short,this is a treasureof information, The PrinceGeorge's County GenealogicalSociety volunteers whose dedicatedwork Droducedthis bookview it as "themost important work the Societyhas published that contributes to AfricanAmerican ancestral research." Thisbook review is reprintedby permissionof the author.) - DianeStultz 5 CALENDAROF EVENTSI NOVEMBER.DEGEMBER2006 Nov. 4-S - World War Il Encampment at Marietta radio programmingat Radio and Television House Museum;10 AM-4 PM; fee Museum;10 AM-5 PM Nov. 12 - "An Afternoonof Mid 19tnCenturv Sonqs" Dec. 16 Krinqle Kids Kandlelisht with special featuring Henry Wixon at Marietta House holidayactivities and tours for ages 2-11 at Museum;4 PM; light refreshments;$S/person, Belair Mansion; 3-6 PM; crafts and reservationsrequired, call 301-464-5291 refreshments;no reservationneeded; donation Nov. 13 - "Crossinqthe Threshold: lnto the 19th requested Century" wilh five speakers taking a look at Dec. 16-23- HolidavTrains and Planes!at College differentaspects of 19thcentury tite at Belair Park Aviation Museum; train exhibit by the '10 Mansion;I AM-4 PM; fee, lunchincluded and NationalCapital Trackers; AM-s PM; free reservationsrequired by calling301 -809-3089 withmuseum admission Nov. 14 - "Deckinqthe Halls: A Look at Holidav Dec. 16-17- Hands-O.nHistorv Dav for Kidsto learn Historv", a look at how we've arrived at about how 19'n century kids experienced Christmaspresented by Pam Williams,Asst. holidaysat MontpelierMansion; 10 AM 12 Director,City of BowieMuseums; 7:30 PM, $3 noon;$7/child, no reservationsrequired; all ages donationrequested, no reservationrequired welcome Nov. 15 - Fall History Lecture Series presentedby Dec. 17 - We Were Marchinqon ChristmasDav wlth Ms. Douglas Dekeyserusing slides on the Civil War Santa and historianKevin Rawlings British ancestral homes of early Maryland recountsthe historyof Santa Claus and his settlersat MontpelierMansion; 7:30 PM, free influenceduring 1861-'1865at Surratt House Nov. 18-19- Hands-OnHistorv Dav for Kidsto learn Museum; Santa visits with children after about NativeAmerican history and cultureat program;2 PM,free, no reservationsrequired MontpelierMansion; 10 AM - 12 noon;$7/child, Dec. 28-29 - Winter Eveninqsat RiversdaleHouse no reservationsrequired; all ageswelcome Museum; 7 PM; refreshmentsand children's Nov. 18 - Une Fete Federaleat RiversdaleHouse activities;$5 adults,children 12 andunder free Museum;1 PM; $65, reservationsrequired by Thru November 26 - The Crime of the Centuru calling301-864-0420, capacity is limited exhibitionat Surratt House Museum;included in Nov. 18-19 - Fall Open House at Surratt House regulartour admission price Museum;12-4 PM; free guided tours and gift Nov. 3-Dec. 30 - Hot-Air Balloons of Handmade shopsale; no reservationsrequired Paperexhibit at CollegePark Aviation Museum; Nov. 24 - Dec. 10 - 7" Annual GinqerbreadHouse freewith museum admission Contestand Show at Darnall'sChance House Thru December 31 - Triumph,Traqedv. and Takinq Museum;12-5PM daily; $1/person Fliqht: The Colleqe Park Photooraphs of Nov. 26 - TrainspottingDay at the Railroad,watch Charles MacCartee exhibit at College Park as dozens of unusual trains whiz by on AviationMuseum; free with museum admission AMTRAK's busiestday of the year at Bowie Thru May 2047 Rub the Oils and Strew the Train Stationand Welcome Center; 10 AM-s Powders: The Legacv of Euiopean Herbs in PM;free Earlv American Medicine and Cuisine exhibit at Dec. 2-4 - Holidav Candleliqht Tours at Marietta MontpelierMansion HouseMuseum; 6-8:30 PM; music,storyteller, refreshments;$S/adults, $3/ages 4-1 8, free/ages For moreinformation about these and otherevents. 3 & under pleasevisit www.pgparks.com and Dec. 2 - Winter'sEve Celebrationat the National prin cegeo rges m useu ms. org, Colonial Farm; 5-8 PM; rain or snow; www.accokeek. org, vwvw.cityofbowie. org, refreshments;free: details call 301-283-2113 www.lau relh istory. org andwww. poplarhi llon h lk. com. x37 Dec. 2 - Sint NiklaasDav: A Winter Afternoonfor Childrenat RiversdaleHouse Museum; 2'.30 PM;gifts and refreshments; $6/child Dec. 3 - Candleliqhtat BelairMansion & Stable',4-7 PM;$g donationfor ages 15 and older Dec. 7-g - Holidav CandleliqhtTours at Montpelier Mansion;6-9 PM; music and refreshments; $3/adultsand $1 /children Dec. 9 - AnnualHolidav Open House at the Laurel '1'1 Museum; AM-4PM; refreshments Dec. 15 - HolidavBroadcast Fun! by watchingand listeningto classic Christmastelevision and 6 qz-agob &r.rt? Taaua.l Socrur /ez Salp
1. Landmarks of Prince Georae's Countv* - 125black & white photographsof the rich architecturallegacy of Prince George,sCo. by Jack E. Boucher. Arrangedchronologically, the photos & captions offer a panoramicoverview of the county's architectural& historicaldevelopment. Ind€xed. Hard-cover,144 pages. Price:518.00,
2, Prince Georqe's Countv: A Pictorial History - The history & essence of Prince George's county come alive in words & pictures in this beautiful collector's edition. Written in a fascinating narrative with more than 350 photographs,maps, & illustrations. Manyof them are in full color and are previouslyunpublished. Author: AlanVirta. 1998- Revised& updatededition. Hardcover,308pages. Price:$42.95'
ourne Pictorial H, of Georqe's C -A history of the county police departmentcovering over 200 years. Author: Lt. Dennis Campbell. Indexed. Printed1991. Hardcover,304 pages. Price:$40.00.
4. Calveft Of MarVland - This fact-basednovel shows the home life of the colonists from a child's viewpoint. This story is told in the first pe6on by young GeorgeCalvert, godson of the first Lord Baltimore,George Calvert. Reprintof James OtisKaler's lglO publication.Hardcover, 166 pages. Pen& ink illustrations.Price: $6.95.
S. Atlas of Fifteen Milesaround Washinoton includina the Countv of Prince GeordeMarvland - compiled, drawn& publishedfrom actual surveys by G. M. Hopkins 1878 including "historical" sketches. Indexed. Reprint 1979. Softcover, 32 Pages. Price: $10.00.
6. Attas of Prince Georoe's County. Marvland 1861 - Atlaswas adaptedfrom Martenet'sMap of PrinceGeorge's Co., MD,with informationfrom 1850federal censusfor each election district. Indexed. Reprint1996. Soft cover, 32 pages. Price:$'10.00.
7. Prince Georoe's Countv. Marvland. lndexes of Church Reaisters 1686-1885- volume| - Protestant EpiscopalChurch, King George's Parish,& QueenAnne's Parish. Author: HelenW. Brown" Reprint2000. Soft cover, 200pages. Price: $18.00
ince G 's Cou Indexes of 6- - Volume 2 - Protestant EpiscopalChurch, St. Paul'sParish, & PrinceGeorge's Parish. Author: HelenW. Brown. Reprint2000. Softcover, 196 pages. Price:$18.00. g. Out of the Past - Prince Georqeans and their Land - chronicle of everydaylife in Prince George'scounty, Marylandfrom the time of its founding in 1676until the beginning of the Civil War. (lnformationfor this book was gleanedfrom public records,newspapers, & privatepapers.) Author: R. Lee Van Horn. Reprint1996. Hardcove\422 pages. Price:$20.00.
10. Tricentennial Cook Book - Contains recipes collected from Prince George's County residents as part of the tricentennialcelebration. Compiled & editedby DorothyRainwater & the TricentennialCelebration Committee. Printed 1996.soft cover,spiral bound, 150 pages. Price:$10.00.
.shipoinq& handlinofor booksnumbered 1, 2, & 3 is $3.00for eachcopy of the bookbecause ot size& weight,therefore they are shippedseparately. Shiooino & handlinofor allother books is$2.50 for the first book & 50 centsfor each additional book. Shippino & handlinqfor internationalorde!.s, pleasecall the HistoricalSociety at 301-464-0590or email ([email protected])for current posGgerares.
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