RSS Feed Follow Me On Twitter Join Me On Facebook

Posts Tagged ‘Maryland’s Eastern Shore’

December 9th, 2013

Destination? Historic Berlin, Maryland, Baked Dessert Cafe, Bake Shop, Coffee Shop, Fine Art Gallery, Wine, Worcester County, Small Town USA, Holiday Open House, Saturday, December 14th

dscn6741

Wishing luck to Berlin, Maryland…apparently the preliminary voting is over but Berlin is on the top spots for Budget Travel’s “Americas Coolest Small Town 2014”.  We will have to wait to see if Berlin becomes a finalist in January.

Historic Berlin is a great town to visit…at this time of the year it is very festive and you will find that there is plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well.

dscn6705

Baked Dessert Cafe is located at 4C Bay Street, just off of Main Street.  Tel. 410-641-1800  Website? http://www.bakeddessertcafe.com They open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Closed on Sunday.  Find Baked Dessert Cafe on Facebook.

dscn6707

At Baked Dessert Cafe you may sit down and enjoy some of their specialties and then some of their baked goods….the Cupcake Bombs come to mind.  So delicious and tiny, so you will not have any guilt…

dscn0547

Please note that Baked Dessert Cafe offers gluten free baked goods!!  For more information, please call them at 410-641-1800.

Baked Dessert is also an Art & Wine Gallery, featuring local artists and interesting wines.

dscn6709

Holiday Open House will be Saturday, 12/14 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Let them to the Holiday Baking…on that day you can sample desserts, breads and various holiday menu items.  Place your order on Saturday the 14th and receive 10% off.

dscn6711

Merry Christmas!!

dscn6710

Comments Off on Destination? Historic Berlin, Maryland, Baked Dessert Cafe, Bake Shop, Coffee Shop, Fine Art Gallery, Wine, Worcester County, Small Town USA, Holiday Open House, Saturday, December 14th

October 12th, 2013

Liquid Assets, Ocean City, Maryland, Restaurant, Liquour Store, Full Bar, Review, Best Pan Roasted Mussels!! Ocean City Restaurant Week, Sunday, 10/13 – Sunday, 10/27!! One Price, 2 Weeks!

dscn5903

The beginning of a Nor’ Easter, along the Mid Atlantic Seaboard, did not deter Jody and I from driving from Rehoboth Beach to Ocean City, Maryland.  Along the way we picked one of my usual suspects in Bethany Beach, who is always ready to come along for a dining experience.  But, wait a minute…it was Debbie’s birthday!!

img_7231

Rain, wind, and not too many on the road…we made it to Liquid Assets located mid town, at 9301 Coastal Highway, in Ocean City, Maryland.  Tel 410-524-7037.  Website?  http://www.ocliquidassets.com.  There is no other restaurant up and down the Delaware and Maryland beaches that compare to Liquid Assets.  It is a package goods store, a bar, a restaurant….serving delicious food.  Sit among the bottles of wines or choose a more quiet ambiance in their separate dining room.  We sat among the sofas, and the bottles of liquour.

dscn5889

It was our evening and chatting away we began our dining experience with a beautiful presentation of a cheese board.  Midnight Moon, Goat Cheese, and Gouda were our choices.

dscn5893

It is that time of the year when pumpkins are in every recipe.  They are also in drinks….The Great Pumkin’ Martini at Liquid Assets looked so gorgeous.  A sip of it told me that it could go down very smoothly.  It had Spice Liqueur, Fireball Whiskey, Cream, and 43.

dscn5890dscn5892

A few small plates of scallops.

dscn5898

The roasted veggies were a hit!!

dscn5897

The beets had a wonderful flavor!

dscn5895

The best Pan Roasted Mussels Bar None!!  Chorizo Sausage, Shallots, Garlic & Grilled Bread!!  How yummy is that? I can attest to this because ever since I had them at Liquid Assets, I have tried mussels at every restaurant.  I have been wanting to see if they measured up to Liquid Assets’.  I have found good ones, but not amazing ones!!  It is one of my favorite dishes and once again I requested a spoon so I could finish the broth!!  Look how gorgeous they looked.

dscn5899

Dessert was a Flourless Chocolate Brownie, topped with vanilla bean ice cream and creamy chocolate sauce…..This dessert was Gluten Free!!  Dense brownie full of flavor.

dscn5900

Note:  Ocean City’s Restaurant Week starts on Sunday 10/13 until Sunday 10/27.   One price, 2 weeks!!  Check participating restaurants, menus, and info. at http://www.oceancityrestaurantweek.com/ocmd-food-restaurants.

Have a Good One!!

January 21st, 2013

‘Hands of Harvest’, Documentary Film, Executive Producer, Matt Haley, SoDel Films, Written & Produced by Adrian Muys, Delaware, Maryland, Eastern Shore Congratulations!! ‘Hands of Harvest’ Picked up by the PBS Network

dscn1042

Congratulations to restauranteur, Matt Haley and Adrian Muys!!  I remember when in March of 2010 I invited my friend, Debbie, to visit the Art Deco Milton Theater in Milton, Delaware.

100_0653

A sneak preview of a documentary, Hands of Harvest.  At the time, that presentation was co-sponsored by the Rehoboth Film Society and the Milton Historical Society.  It was part of the series called Delmarva Roots.  These series featured the rich history of the Delmarva region.

dscn1044

It is a documentary that offers a glimpse into a renowned American Industry, being kept afloat by foreign labor.  It illustrates the struggles and fortitude of the migrant Mexican women who fuel the crabbing industry on the Eastern Shore.  As one of Maryland’s most viable economic resources, a s well as a cultural icon, the blue crab business takes center stage, delving into the history and strife of the watermen who fight to keep the livelihood intact.

The 56 minute film, originally, appeared on PBS back in July of 2010.  It has since then made a revival, catching the eye of the National Education Telecommunications Association, or NETA, as they’re more commonly known, who has aired and distributed the documentary through the national PBS network.

Since then, ‘Hands of Harvest’ has aired in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, and New York City.  It will be airing in cities throughout the U.S. for at least another year.  The film has also been screened at Salisbury University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, Washington College, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.

Adrian Muys says he is “thrilled” with the film’s recent praise, adding that he is proud that the production has brought further attention to the H-2B visa program as part of the Immigration and Nationality Act established in 1980.  This focus has, in turn, brought about discussions on the topic of keeping workers, such as those portrayed in the film, working in the Delmarva region.

“As a restauranteur, I use a lot of Hispanic workers, and I care about the conditions that they live and work in and how they are treated in the community”, explains Matt Haley.  “The blue crab industry is of interest to people all across the Delmarva Peninsula and the Eastern Shore–it’s an institution.  Many don’t realize how dependent the struggling industry is on Hispanic workers and what their life is like here.”

Since ‘Hands of Harvest’, Matt Haley has produced a second film, “Motorcycle Chang Pa”, which chronicles the lives and travels of the nomadic Chang Pa tribe through the high altitude deserts of the Himalayas.  Matt’s new production company, SoDel Films, is in the process of creating an independent film in Delaware with actor and filmmaker, Paul Webster.

For further information on ‘Hands of Harvest’, please visit http://www.handsofharvest.com.

For more information on Matt Haley, please visit http://www.matthaleycompanies.com.

I think you are really going to enjoy this documentary.  It is so interesting, especially for those of us that live on the Delmarva Peninsula.  I have bought it and given it to friends as a special gift.

Talk to you later….

Comments Off on ‘Hands of Harvest’, Documentary Film, Executive Producer, Matt Haley, SoDel Films, Written & Produced by Adrian Muys, Delaware, Maryland, Eastern Shore Congratulations!! ‘Hands of Harvest’ Picked up by the PBS Network

June 5th, 2012

Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Tunnell Center, Disability Services, State of the Art Facility, Georgetown, Delaware

 

dscn4463

So you are wondering where am I going with this post.  Or, questioning me; aren’t you supposed to be eating somewhere and giving us your personal opinion, or, going out and about the Delaware Beaches, shopping, perhaps?

My answer is that as a long time resident of the Delaware Beaches, learning about the programs and services in the area…well, I should have done that a long time ago.  Maybe I am more matured now and don’t have to think just about myself; others are important too, especially the ones with special needs.

I started to ask a few this question: What comes to your mind when I mention Easter Seals? Almost everyone answered: the red seal?  A few, just like myself, answered something like, children services.

dscn4471

So many people are choosing Southern Delaware as a place to retire; others like our communities, living at the beach, most will say low property taxes and tax free shopping.

Easter Seals will serve 24,000 and deliver one million hours of direct services.  It is growing, innovating, and leading at the Delaware Beaches.

dscn4474

I was very pleased when a friend, Jamie, called me to invite me to see this amazing facility, which is the home of the Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore; the Tunnell Center.  She sits on its Advisory Board.  It is located at 22317 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.  Tel. 302-253-1121, Fax 302-856-7296.  Website?  www.de.easterseals.com.

dscn4448

Delaware locations:  Dover, Newark, New Castle, and Georgetown.

Maryland locations: Salisbury, and Chestertown

I am mainly concentrating on the one I visited in Georgetown, which is about half hour from Rehoboth Beach.

This state of the art building is 28,000 square feet.  It is only about 6 years old. Beautifully landscaped.  It offers a wide range of programs and services; from Children’s Therapy Services to Personal Attendant Services.  All those services and everything you need to know about Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore can be found at www.de.easterseals.com.

dscn4461

I had no pre-conceived ideas, so I could not wait to see it.  Jamie met me at the door and then introduced me to Leslie Gale.  She is the Community Relations Coordinator.  Just in case you need to contact her, you can call 302-253-1121, or e-mail her at lgale@esdel.org.

The first you will notice is how quiet it is when you step into the building.  It is located right on Rt. 113, which is a major highway; you don’t hear any sounds.  The colors are soothing, chosen exactly for that purpose.  A reception room with elevators and stairs. 

dscn4477

The first thing Leslie showed me was a glass case containing different products that can be tested, before purchasing them, to see if the person that needs it likes them or can work with them.  People with disabilities are able to remain in the work force despite a disabling condition.  Maybe an alternate keyboard or mouse is all someone needs to help them be more productive at work. 

dscn4449

Other products could help in the most simple ways; the cup with the two handles, for example.

dscn4456

Throughout the building there were rooms for different purposes. 

dscn4460

A Conference Room completely set up for meetings, accommodating large groups.

dscn4457

A Game Room, which is still been furnished.  Pool tables, television, and trains.  There is a train club at Easter Seals.

dscn4459

dscn4458

Therapy Rooms.  All rooms had windows and were light and airy; nothing crowded; all were so nicely kept.

dscn4472

dscn4473

Children receiving therapy services can be seen by parents through a one way window.

Kitchen.

dscn4476

This is a very active Easter Seals, with many activities scheduled, including trips and entertainment.  There is a process, just like everything else, in order to receive services at this facility.  First of all, evaluations.  If you need the services please do not hesitate to call them.

One of their newest services is the Adult Day Care Services.  I came into this room and some were already gone for a day trip.  Others, were just around, playing cards, talking or doing other things.  Nurses always around.  One, in particular, tug at my heart.  I don’t know his name.  He was about 85 years old and in good shape.  His wife had suddenly died after a fall, then he told me he had to put his dog to sleep.  He was living with his daughter, and during the day he spent it at the Tunnell Center.  But, what he was most upset about was that the Delaware State Police took his driver’s license.  Between you and I, that was a good thing.  What he really wanted to do was go fishing!!!

I thought about it for a moment.  First, he was in a safe place and thank God for his daughter to help him out.  Then, I was talking to the head nurse, which I know had a different title but was also a nurse. I told her I did not know if I could work there.  And, this is what she told me: “I am a nurse, I have empathy, but you have to get beyond that; our mission here is to help them get better and be productive, so that they can have equal opportunities to live, work and play in their communities.”  As simple as that, nothing else she needed to say; I understood. 

The back of the door opened to beautiful gardens and a deck to sit out and enjoy the quietness and serenity of this environment. 

dscn4465

Follow me through the walkway.  Look how pretty it was.

dscn4464

dscn4466

dscn4467

dscn4468

 

From the back you can see another view of the building.

dscn4470

Another new service offered by Easter Seals is called In-Home Services.  It offers stay at home support, companionship and peace of mind. This service is only offered in New Castle and Kent counties, at the moment.  You can get started with a free evaluation.  And please note, that if this is something you might be considering, the caregivers helping are employees of Easter Seals; not contractors.  Each person is carefully screened with thorough background checks and are bonded and insured.

Summer is pretty much here and Easter Seals offers summer camp services.  The camp is called Camp Fairlee Manor, located in Chestertown, Maryland.  There are special camp sessions for kids and teens with Autism.  Please visit www.de.easterseals.com.

Easter Seal Camp Fairlee Manor is the only camp in our region that provides a typical residential camp experience for children and adults with disabilities on a year-round basis.

My visit had come to an end.  It was quite an experience.  I even got to speak Spanish to a gentleman in the Adut Day Care. 

I hope my friends read this post.  So many are already involved in helping in the community.  It is really something else to see us all “grow up”.

You want to help?  Give them a Call.  You want to give in other ways? Check the website.

I was at peace, definitely!!   Thanks Leslie and Jamie for my candy!!

dscn4538

Information for this post was taken from the Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

And, we did go out for lunch, afterall one needs to eat.  Jamie, Leslie and I took off for the Brick Hotel; a post in the making.

Talk to you later…have a good one!!

Comments Off on Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Tunnell Center, Disability Services, State of the Art Facility, Georgetown, Delaware

November 5th, 2011

Atlantic Hotel, Historic Village of Berlin, Maryland, Maryland’s Eastern Shore

 

dscn0045

They say you have to see the town that Hollywood fell in love with….Remember?  Runaway Bride?  Or, Tuck Everlasting?  These movies were filmed in the town of Berlin.  And, even though it has been years since the streets were turned into a movie set, I always refer to both of those movies to see if people have a recollection.

dscn0066

dscn0106

The funny part is that when you do visit Berlin, it does remind you of the perfect movie set.  One thing, for sure, is the fact that this Historic Village is vibrant with an influx of shops, arts, entertainment and restaurants.  The shopkeepers?  Friendly!!

You cannot miss in the center of Berlin, the beautiful and historic Atlantic Hotel.  It is located at 2 North Main Street.  Tel. 410-641-3589.  Website? www.atlantichotel.com.

dscn0046

The Atlantic Hotel was built in 1895 by Horace F. Harmonson and his wife, Virginia Lingo Harmonson.  “Drummers” were traveling salesmen that crisscrossed the area during the turn of the century and they stayed at the hotel.

img_4640

In those early times there was a livery stable in the back.  Here the sales of mules and horses took place.  Livestock would arrive in Berlin by rail, then it would be driven up through the town to the Atlantic Stable.

img_4642

Mr. Harmonson had a horse-drawn bus.  He met incoming trains.  The bus would carry passengers directly to the Hotel.  “Drummers” would check into the Hotel and order up a horse and buggy from the stable to make their rounds. 

img_4637

Other frequent guests at the Hotel were those on their way to the ocean, those interested in hunting and fishing; guides were readily available, and those who simply loved good food.

img_3612

Move forward many years and in 1986 the Atlantic Hotel was purchased by 10 local businessmen who were interested in preserving this gem.  The Hotel now looks like it should have looked in its early days.

img_4643

The Drummer’s Cafe opens daily with delicious food.  The staff is more than happy to take you through a tour of the hotel and even show you some of the rooms, as long as there are no guests.

During the filming of the Runaway Bride, The Atlantic Hotel was used for many of the scenes in the movie.

dscn0104

The Hotel stands by itsel, but on Jefferson St., next to the Hotel, there is a Gardener’s Cottage.  This cottage is also part of the Hotel and available for rent.  It is so cute.

dscn0099

The Historic Village of Downtown Berlin is perfect for strolling.  Just park your car; no meters, by the way, and take off exploring.   So many new things coming to this town; it is becoming a destination.

It is just 10 minutes West of Ocean City, Maryland, 7 minutes West of Assateague Island, 25 minutes East of Salisbury and 45 minutes South of Rehoboth Beach.

 

Note:  Some info. for this post was taken from The Atlantic Hotel.

 

100_4808

Have a good one!!  Talk to you later….

Comments Off on Atlantic Hotel, Historic Village of Berlin, Maryland, Maryland’s Eastern Shore

September 2nd, 2011

Road Trip, St. Michael’s, The Crab Claw, The Bellevue-Oxford Ferry,The Treasure Chest, Oxford, The Creamery, Maryland’s Eastern Shore…A Reunion and the Perfect Get-Away

 

Someone said that a blog is like a home.  That it shows personality and passion.  You know…all the things that decorate life.  I could not have said it better myself because when I started this website which is written in a blog style, I wanted to make sure that it was honest, fun and from my heart.  Sometimes I think I write too honestly, and others I can’t believe I wrote that on paper.  But, hey, it is a diary of sorts.

During the past year some of us have met in Miami, others in Puerto Rico, Colorado, Philadelphia and just before hurricane Irene, in St. Michael’s, Maryland.

When I tell you I have not seen Tita in probably about 40 years, I am not kidding.  It took her to visit St. Michael’s with her family and for me to drive over to reconnect.  The funny part is that even after all those years, we just started talking like I had seen her the other day.  Her family?  Just as easy going.

I am supposed to be the one that knows the area, the ins and outs.  Well, I got so lost.  I even got lost in St. Michael’s.  The town is so small, how could I?  They knew their way around much better.

St. Michael’s looked good.  It dates back to the mid 1600s.  It was a trading post for area tobacco farmers and trappers.  St. Michael’s is keeping its colonial past pretty much intact.  Tourists love the town.  It is so pretty and the streets are lined with trees and plenty of restaurants and shops.  A longer visit will have to wait.  This one was strictly for my friends.  And they were hungry.

If you want to know more about St. Michael’s, please visit www.stmichaelsmd.org.

We stopped at The Crab Claw right in town.  Some wanted lobsters; other fish. I just wanted them to try a blue crab.

The lobsters looked good.  The crabs ordered were on the small side.  A lesson on how to eat open a crab followed.  The other dishes were okay. 

img_6625

The Crab Claw has been the place to go in St. Michael’s for years but I found it a bit too commercialized.  It is located at 304 Burns St., St. Michael’s , MD 21663.  No credit cards are taken; cash or check.  Website?  http://www.thecrabclaw.com.

img_6627

Our next destination?  Take the ferry over to Oxford, Maryland.  You can drive it but it is more scenic and fun on the ferry.  Tita and her family were looking at me skeptically.  I am sure they were thinking, could she even get to the ferry?

img_6629

And, they were wondering where it was.  Then, almost in no time it was right in front of our eyes.  This ferry is called the Bellevue-Oxford Ferry, and it is very small.  It can fit more than a few cars, though.  It only took about 10 minutes to cross the Tred Avon River.  The view was gorgeous. It was such a pretty day and some sailboats were anchored at Port Oxford. This area is practically known as sailing capital.

img_6636

The ferry was established in 1683 and it is the nation’s oldest privately operated ferry.  More info?  Please visit www.oxfordbellevueferry.com.

img_6631

Arriving by ferry to Oxford is the way to go.  You really get to appreciate the beauty of this quaint town that dates to 1694. 

img_6637

From The Treasure Chest in Oxford

From The Treasure Chest in Oxford

It is the perfect get-away.  And, you really are away from it all; nature, water, and beauty surrounds this historic town.  Its residents want to keep the town the way it is; retaining its charm is on all residents minds.  They even think that St. Michael’s is too big.

Walking around Oxford you could feel the wonderful breezes and enjoy its quietness.  I am sure my friends were really feeling it because having come from San Juan, Puerto Rico, where noise is a way of life, this was a welcomed change and a haven from the hustle and bustle of that city.

 

img_6651

We stopped at The Treasure Chest.  This shop is located at 214 N. Morris St., Oxford, MD 21654.  Tel 410-924-8817.  You can find it on Facebood as The Treasure Chest in Oxford.  It is a small shop; Susan is the shopkeeper. 

img_6652

Just like everyone you meet in Oxford, Susan is friendly and ready to tell you about Oxford.  Her store has art by local artists, nautical gifts, tee shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, jewelry, hats, bags and souvenirs that promote the port of Oxford. 

img_6645

img_6642

We bought a few things.  You could not help it.  You can find something for a friend, for your boat or just your own little indulgence.

img_6647

img_6639

img_6643

In her storefront window, The Treasure Chest is keeping one of the 2011 Picket Fences called Don’t Fence Me In by Joanne Boughner/Sara Koch.  These artists’ charity is CaringBridge.

Picket Fence "Don't Fence Me In" at The Treasure Chest

Picket Fence "Don't Fence Me In" at The Treasure Chest

Early photos from the town of Oxford showed that there were picket fences gracing lawns around the mid 1800s.  The town does not know who installed the first picket fence or who imagined its distinctive and exotic design, which is an onion dome with a center hole. 

2011 marks the 3rd year for this popular event.  Half of the profits from the picket fences will be donated to the favorite charity of the artist whose fence raises the most money at the Auction!!  If you are interested in purchasing a fence but cannot attend, then, please visit www.portofoxford.com to find out how.

img_6670

As you walk around the town you will be able to spot the fences.  There are 18 in all.

It was hot and Susan sent us to the Scottish Highland Creamery (the Creamery) on 14 Tilghman St.  Website? www.scottishhighlandcreamery.com. You can also find them on Facebook.

img_6656

As we approched the Creamery, we heard a customer say “this is the friendliest ice cream store we have ever been”.  It was true.  Susan (different from the other Susan) was the owner. 

img_6659

One taste of the coffee and I was sold.  It was delicious.  That true coffee flavor with chips of dark chocolate.  The Creamery also has sugar free and gluten free ice creams.  All homemade using local ingredients, fresh milk, cream.  We ate our ice creams in a most relaxed atmosphere; by the water with not a care in the world.

img_6657

img_6662

Soon we were back on the ferry again.  I had to get back to Delaware.  Seeing Tita was great.  Friends are priceless!!

 

Note:  Oxford’s 1st Nautical Festival and Flea Market will be Saturday, September 3rd from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Causeway Park.  It is free and open to the public.  Please, also note, that The Treasure Chest will have a table selling brand new Oxford t-shirts (short and long sleeves) and Oxford sweatshirts (crews and hoodies).  The Treasure Chest will also be open at their location.

 

From The Treasure Chest, Oxford, Maryland

From The Treasure Chest, Oxford, Maryland

See you and have a good one!!  Talk to you later…

Comments Off on Road Trip, St. Michael’s, The Crab Claw, The Bellevue-Oxford Ferry,The Treasure Chest, Oxford, The Creamery, Maryland’s Eastern Shore…A Reunion and the Perfect Get-Away

May 9th, 2011

St. Martin’s Church, Showell, Maryland, A National Historic Landmark, An Architectural Gem, Available for Weddings, Open Houses, May 18th and June 4th, Worcester County

 

I am not sure if you are feeling like I do.  The older I get the more I am paying attention to my surroundings.  A beautiful tree, the bright color of an azalea, the marshland, a wooden bridge, a row house, a blue heron, the way the ocean sounds as you stand at its edge, a historic town; a historic church.

For about 10 years I drove to Berlin, Maryland from Bethany or Rehoboth Beach.  It was a bit of a hike.  I did not mind, though. I always took the scenic route.  The road was Rt. 113 going south to Berlin, Maryland.  But, before I got there I would have to pass the town of Showell.  Did not dare to blink or I would miss it. Then, right after Showell, a small church sat there.  It has sat there for 255 years and I cannot believe that the other day was when I finally got to, actually, meet Historic St. Martin’s Church.

The location is Rt. 113 & 589 Junction. Four miles north of Berlin, MD.  St. Martin’s Church Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 590, Berlin, MD 21811.  Tel. 410-430-2142.  Website? www.historicstmartinschurch.org.  You can find them on Facebook.

You will have the opportunity to meet St. Martin’s Church, as well, because there are 2 Open Houses scheduled in the near future.  Other Open Houses will be added later on in the year.

The first Open House will be next week on Wednesday, May 18th from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.  This is in celebration of International Museum Day.  Every year since 1977 International Museum Day is organized worldwide.  The reason?  To raise awareness on how important museums are in the development of society.  From America to Oceania, including Africa, Europe and Asia almost 30,000 museums get involved in more than 100 countries.

The next Open House will be on Saturday, June 4th, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Worshippers would have arrived by carriage, horse, boat or by foot to worship at St. Martin’s Church. It was 1756; 20 years prior to the signing of The Declaration of Independence.   I cannot imagine what life was like during the times of our country’s founders.  Definitely, the simplicity of this Church says it all; it was built in colonial times when life was a challenge; it took brave hearts and determination.

Historic St. Martin’s Church is the oldest of 11 Worcester County Museums.  Worcester County is the easternmost county located in Maryland.  The county contains the entire length of Maryland’s Atlantic coastline.  Its county seat is Snow Hill.

St. Martin’s Church once sat next to a tributary of the Saint Martin’s River; Windmill Creek.  A lot has changed through the years.  The geography has and the river no longer flows by.  But guess what?  The building that once housed this Anglican Church, where people came and worshipped remains, along with its secrets.

img_3565

This was an Anglican Church.  Anglican vs. Episcopal?  When the Revolutionary War occurred in North America, the U.S. declared its independence from England and American Anglicans changed their name to “Episcopalians” to avoid persecution.  Episcopal means to have bishops, but Episcopalians are still Anglicans today.

And there I was with Sherrie, Sue and Cindi.  I wanted to see St. Martin’s so that I could write this post.  I had heard that for years a group of community leaders were determined to preserve this gem of architecture.  This group is working hard to promote St. Martin’s.  They are trying to help raise awareness of its historic value and its funding needs.

The first thing you will notice as you get out of the car and take the surroundings in is that even though it is adjacent to a major highway, it is so quiet and serene.  Towering pines surround the property.

img_3564

A Historical Marker by the Maryland Historical Trust will tell you that St. Martin’s Church was established around 1692 as a Chapel-of-Ease for Snow Hill Parish, and later, in 1744 designated as the principal church to Worcester Parish.  The original frame building was replaced with the Georgian brick structure, completed in 1764.

img_3563

With its Flemish bond brick walls and the glazed checkerboard pattern on the south wall, you can tell it was built in colonial times.  Rubbed brick borders highlight the church’s windows and doors, and the roof features what are called “kicked waves” and cove cornices”.

img_3600

img_3557

img_3559

img_3553

I was so honored to be able to step inside this historic museum.  The entrance has double batten doors.  One of the unusual features is the flat arches above the entrances.

img_3599

The restoration effort started in 1994.  The Foundation Board of Trustees selected award winning Architectural Historian, Paul Baker Touart, to guide the project.  Although most of the building and the grounds restorations are pretty much complete, ongoing preservation continues.

Foundation President, Mrs. Sherrie Beckstead, together with master goldsmith Steve Clarke, has designed a key pendant, which is a replica of the key to the doors of Saint Martin’s.  The copyrighted key will be available in sterling silver and 18 karat gold for those who want to purchase this keepsake in support of the historic church.  You can call Sherrie Beckstead at 410-430-2142 or e-mail at Historicstmartin@aol.com.

 img_3534

img_3533

And, then as I entered the Church I stepped on the Brick floor.  This is the original brick floor.

img_3591

img_3543

And a look at the simple pine box pews.  As you take a look at these pictures, please notice that the darker color of the pine, is what was replaced.  The rest is all original.

img_3548

img_3541

The windows, for obvious reasons had to be replaced.

img_3593

And, that majestic raised Pulpit.  I climbed to the Pulpit where I could get a full view of the pews. 

img_3570

img_3544

img_3545

Although St. Martin’s Church is small, it can still accommodate 60 to 100 people.

img_3546

I climbed to the Gallery.  From that point of view there is a complete different perspective.  Who sat here? Wide plank pine boards are intact.

 img_3573

img_3576

 img_3580

img_3581

img_3585

img_3586

There is a wall left unpainted and unretouched on purpose.  If you look closer you will see all kinds of scribbles and dates.  It is a Wall of Remembrance. A mark left by a visitor or worshipper, perhaps.  Some dates are that old.

img_3578

Since its restoration, open houses, weddings, musical and art events and lectures have taken place at St. Martin’s.  “Historic Weddings” are starting to take place within the Chapel as couples that love history and the Eastern Shore region cannot resist the charm and setting of St. Martin’s.  A collaboration involving several historic properties and hotels in the region is working with the Foundation on the creation of “Eastern Shore Historic Weddings”.  All you have to do is give them a call or visit the website above mentioned for more information.

img_3567

The grounds are beautifully kept.  Plenty of parking and enough space for a tent, as well.

img_3568

 

Hours of Operation:

Open every Saturday, beginning June 4th from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.  Tours are also available.

Admission:

St. Martin’s graciously accepts donations.  All donations are tax deductible.

Handicapped Access:  For special assistance, please call or e-mail prior to your visit.

The websites?  www.historicstmartinschurch.org, or visit Worcester County Museums at www.octhebeach.com/museums.

img_3596

 

What do you think?  It takes my breath away.  It has taken a group of people with a lot of help from the community to bring beautiful Historic St. Martin’s Church back to where it should be.  Lets appreciate it and enjoy it.  This special and unique church is “Unlocking The Past…While Preserving the Future”.

 img_3595

Have a great day!!…Talk to you later….

 

Note:  Information for this post came from Historic Old St. Martin’s Church Foundation.

Search the Archives