Readers, Welcome to my blog (formerly Birds, Blooms, Books, etc). I'm entering a new decade taking on the challenge of moving from Maryland after living there 46 years and learning about my new home here in New England in the Live Free or Die state - New Hampshire. Join me as a write this new chapter of my life.

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Governor's Mansion

When we walked around Annapolis last week I had to stop and admire the Governor's mansion especially the gardens.



It must have been a good year for cannas, those very tall flooring plants.  The friend I was with didn't recognize them because of their height.

Sunday, October 2, 2016

Tuesday Treasures #25 - Treasures in the State House

This is my third posting on the Maryland State House that we visited on Monday September, 26th.  Years ago when I taught 4th grade a favorite field trip was to go to Annapolis and have a guided walking tour with a docent in Colonial garb.  One of the stops was the State House.  Since then major renovations were done and the inside looked very different from what I remembered.

A major event in the history of the State House was that it was the first peacetime capitol of our country.  In that capacity General George Washington came here to resign as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army.

There is a lot to see and read.  This post will focus on the historical aspects.


This painting hangs in the stairwell.











The first Colonial governor of Maryland, appointed by his brother, Lord Baltimore, the proprietor of the Colony.  Maryland was founded with the intent to have religious freedom.


Clarence Blount, the first African American elected to serve in the state legislature.


Mary Risteau, the first woman elected to the state legislature.




A plaque commemorating William Henson, a Maryland son.



Inside an anteroom to the Old Senate chamber is this collection of faces from the past.



Here's Dan standing with George.





Annapolis is a beautiful city to visit.  The State House is just one stop of many historical places to visit while you are there.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Inside Maryland's State House

The Maryland State House underwent renovation a few years back.  It's looking very good these days.

Here's the current Senate chamber. It's in the part of the State House added on in the 20th century.


A Tiffany glass feature in the hall ceiling.


The House chamber is bigger but with similar marble features.




In the 18th century part of the State House are lovely columns,


arches,


and the inside of the dome.



The old Senate chamber has been restored to what it looked like when Washington resigned his commission.





The old House chamber was restored to the Victorian age decor.


The ceiling in there was gorgeous.


More to come on the Maryland State House.