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Historic District of Annapolis

In 1695, the peninsula seaport of Ann Arundel Town was named Annapolis in honor of Princess Anne, soon to become queen. Annapolis was laid out in a unique and lovely baroque plan, with streets radiating from Church and State Circles to surrounding waters.

In 1766, Thomas Jefferson commented: "The situation of this place is extremely beautiful...the houses in general are better than those in Williamsburgh."   Today, twenty-two 18th century structures stand, including four houses of Maryland's signers of the Declaration of Independence.

By the Revolutionary War, Annapolis was a thriving commerce and popular center of Colonial social life. In 1781, Baron de Closen remarked..."the very rich civilians of the state prefer Annapolis, which creates there a charming society and some very pretty ladies, very well raised, well enough dressed, and loving the amusements".

Today, the Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places, and additionally protected by a local Historic District ordinance. Beautifully preserved period and vernacular houses and gardens of three centuries make up the charming streetscapes.

As a modern "star" city destination, with shops, museums, restaurants, and diversions of every variety carefully integrated into a rare and precious historic fabric, the heart of the town is steadfastly maintained by the indomitable spirit of an appreciative and committed community.