historical society of kent county

Provides excellent maps and perspectives of the Kent County area and helpful staff provides excellent and firendly guidance.

I am partial because I am a Eastern Shore Maryland girl now living in Florida for almost 16 years but I just love Chestertown Historical Downtown. I never appreciated when I was a child but now when I return I am in awe of just how beautiful it all is!!

One of the sites on the walking tour of Chestertown is this 1783 merchant home. There is no admission charge but rather a suggested donation of $3.You wander around by yourself from room to room and check out the belongings of the merchant family as well as some area background items (maps, documents). It was quite well done and there were a number of small signs describing items (particularly those you just might have a question about!).There are 2 floors to tour plus the basement, which includes a period kitchen. The second floor seems to be a work in progress, with a number of baby dolls and children's items indicating they may be setting one room up as a children's room. The basement was poorly lit, and you had to search for the light switch yourself (and which really not do much the illuminate the rooms).Curiously to this veteran museum junkie, the museum director enthusiastically encouraged one group to bring in their medium sized dog. As there are many delicate -- and one would believe at least semi-valuable items -- unprotected and on the floor or low shelves/tables, one would have to know their dog was well-behaved to do so. And, I suppose, the same would go for inquisitive toddlers as the many "do not touch" signs would not deter either a sniffing dog (annoying in the rooms' small space) or a naturally curious child.I would encourage visitors to include this in their walk of Chestertown sites!

Open all weekend, we found lots to do with their help. Information was available on many different activities geared for all types of travelers.

Very friendly woman at the front desk, willing to help with any questions. Unfortunately, we did not have much time to browse, but found what we saw to be fascinating, especially about Chestertown's Washington College.