New Virtual Experiences From Our Partners
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve introduced you to some of the virtual tours and experiences offered by our heritage partners. Here are some of the latest offerings we’d like to share with you; whether you want to explore a historic landmark and local gardens, or delve into a research project, there is much more online now than ever before. We are excited to recognize the results of lots of hard work going on behind the scenes!
Banneker-Douglass Museum
As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum serves to document, to interpret, and to promote African American history and culture (particularly in Maryland) through exhibitions, programs, and projects in order to improve the understanding and appreciating of America’s rich cultural diversity for all. Now you can explore their Online Database, a collection of over 12,000 curated archival records, books, maps, photographs, and artwork.
For any questions regarding the collection or research requests, please contact the Banneker-Douglass Museum by phone (410) 216-6180 or by email at [email protected].
Historic London Town & Gardens
Although some sites on the grounds of Historic London Town are now open to the public, namely the Carpenter Shop and Lord Mayor’s Tenement, the William Brown House is still closed to visitors. Now, you can take a virtual tour of this National Historic Landmark, and learn more about the people who lived and worked there.
Between 1758 and 1764, William Brown, carpenter, ferrymaster and tavern keeper, built his large Georgian house to be a tavern. It overlooks the ferry landing in the busy port town of London on the South River. In the 1780’s, Brown lost the house to his creditors, and it became a rental property as the town faded away. In 1828, it was purchased by Anne Arundel County as the almshouse. It continued to shelter those in need until 1965. Today, the William Brown House is the heart of the historic area at Historic London Town and Gardens.
Hammond-Harwood House
During the first weekend of June each year, the Hammond-Harwood House usually holds its Secret Garden Tour in a section of Annapolis. Hundreds of those who are curious about or love gardens have toured the secret gardens of Annapolis – behind historic houses, down picturesque alleyways, or inside intriguing gates. This year a live event was not possible so they took the event online through their Virtual Secret Garden Tour. Gardeners shared photos of their own gardens so everyone can now tour the gardens online.
Maryland State Archives
The State Archives serves as the central depository for government records of permanent value. Its holdings date from Maryland’s founding in 1634, and include colonial and state executive, legislative, and judicial records; county probate, land, and court records; church records; business records; state publications and reports; and special collections of private papers, maps, photographs, and newspapers.
We have already introduced the variety of Digital Resources available through the Maryland State Archives. Now you can also view the debut of two more new YouTube videos, an Introduction to Vital Records and a brief tutorial on Baltimore City Vowel Indexes, to better help you research indexes from home.
Remember to check our Virtual Experiences page on the Four Rivers Heritage Area website; explore the links to see the many ways our partners’ heritage stories and resources can be accessible to you, wherever you are!