Bringing history to life through objects from the past

Through our Collection program, Historic Annapolis acquires objects that illuminate life in Annapolis, Maryland, and the Chesapeake region. We restore these items to their original condition insofar as possible. We display and interpret them so that our members and the public can learn more about the past.

The Collection

Our collection is composed of more than 1,500 objects from the early 18th century to the present. It includes ceramics, silver, metals, furniture, textiles, fine art, photographs, and prints. Most of the fine and decorative arts collection is on view at the William Paca House. More objects are exhibited in the Historic Annapolis Museum.

Some Recent Acquisitions

Tall-case clock

In 2004 we were thrilled to acquire this rare and beautiful work of 18th-century Annapolis craftsmanship. The clock was made by renowned clockmaker/silversmith William Faris and cabinetmakers John Shaw and Archibald Chisholm. Every element of the clock—from its case to its timekeeping mechanisms and chime—is being expertly restored.

Queen's Stitch Pocketbook

In the 18th century it was gentlemen, not ladies, who carried pocketbooks. Men used pocketbooks to carry promissory notes, deeds, wills, and other important papers with them, rather than risk leaving them in another location. Leather pocketbooks sold by tradesmen were commonplace. Needlework pocketbooks were rarer.

In July 2004 we acquired this outstanding example featuring a popular and intricate stitch of the day. Such pocketbooks were typically produced by women of education and relative leisure—such as Mary Paca—for their loved ones. Ours is silk on linen with a pewter clasp. It is displayed for three-month increments at the William Paca House.

Silk-on-Linen American Potholder

During the latter half of the 18th century, potholders were not only utilitarian objects. Some, like the one we recently acquired, were purely genteel accessories. Our potholder, a delicate linen example worked with blue and cream silk thread, would have added elegance to a social ritual such as tea. It is particularly notable in that it survived in excellent condition, with its original silk binding. It is on display in the Parlour Chamber of the William Paca House.

Help Expand the Collection

Donate or loan items for display in the William Paca House. Items from 1760-80, the period when Paca owned the home, will help guests to the home visualize the many daily activities that took place there. Please contact Heather Ersts for more information: 410-990-4704 or heather.ersts@annapolis.org.

Make a cash contribution for a specific purchase, to fund a discrete project, or to be held in reserve for future purchases. Contact Heather Ersts for more information: 410-990-4704 or heather.ersts@annapolis.org.