Exploring Historic Annapolis: A One-Day Walking Itinerary
Annapolis, Maryland, serves as a living museum of American history, boasting the highest concentration of eighteenth-century colonial buildings in the United States alongside the prestigious United States Naval Academy. This self-guided walking itinerary will help you navigate the cobblestone streets, appreciate historic architectural styles, and experience the rich maritime traditions of the state capital in a single day.
Morning: The Colonial Historic District
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Begin at State Circle (9:00 AM)
Start your morning at the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol building in continuous legislative use. Built in the Georgian architectural style, it features a distinctive wooden dome constructed entirely without metal nails. Walk inside to tour the Old Senate Chamber, where George Washington famously resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in 1783. -
Examine Eighteenth-Century Residential Architecture (10:15 AM)
From State Circle, walk down Maryland Avenue toward the Hammond-Harwood House. This 1774 mansion is a classic example of Anglo-Palladian architecture, renowned for its symmetrical design and ornate carved doorway. Directly across the street stands the Chase-Lloyd House, showcasing grand three-story brickwork. Take time to note the Flemish-bond brick patterns, decorative cornices, and transom windows that characterize Annapolis colonial design.
- itinerary:
- A planned route or detailed schedule for a trip or journey.
- commission:
- An official rank or military command authority given to an officer.
- symmetrical:
- Having balanced proportions with matching shapes on opposite sides.
- cornices:
- Decorative horizontal moldings running along the top of a building or wall.
- transom:
- A small window set above a door or another window.
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- 1What makes the wooden dome of the Maryland State House architecturally unique?
- 2What significant historical event occurred inside the Old Senate Chamber in 1783?
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About this how-to / procedural passage for Middle School
“Exploring Historic Annapolis: A One-Day Walking Itinerary” is a how-to / procedural reading passage about Annapolis Architecture and Naval Academy Tour, written for Middle School. It takes about 4 minutes to read (578 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.