Learn about British Colonial life at the Hammond-Harwood House. A designated national historic landmark, Hammond-Harwood House has been lovingly preserved and restored and retains many original features from Colonial times. Take a guided tour to understand more about the residents who once called this attractive mansion home.
Listen as your guide recounts the fascinating history of the house. Under orders from wealthy plantation owner Matthias Hammond, work began on the house in 1774. The architect behind the property wasWilliam Buckland, who took inspiration for the property’s design from the Villa Pisani in Montagnana, Northern Italy. Sadly, Buckland died before the property was complete. Hammond himself never lived here, instead renting it out to others while he remained resident at his plantation in Gambrills.
Take some time to appreciate the architecture of the house. Designed in the Anglo-Palladian style, the house is characterized by its symmetry and features some fine woodcarving and plasterwork details.
Inside, stroll around the rooms and inspect the collection of Colonial furniture and crafts. See works by John Shaw, a well-known Annapolis craftsman. Bookshelves, sideboards, clocks and other pieces by Shaw are dotted around the house.
A collection of high-quality paintings are also hung within the property. Look for the portraits painted by renowned artist Charles Willson Peale. Among the most famous of them is one of six-year-old Ann Proctor, who is depicted sitting on a chair holding her beloved doll.
After the tour, visit the gallery where temporary exhibits are hosted. Save time to stroll around the charming garden, which showcases typical Colonial Revival-style landscaping. The garden can also be rented out for wedding ceremonies. Stop at the gift shop and browse the store’s offerings, which include artisan African market baskets, educational books, candles, soaps and more.
The house is open afternoons, Tuesday to Sunday, from April through December. There is an entrance fee, which has discounted rates for children. Tours take place hourly.
