Princess Anne, MD

County: Somerset

History

Princess Anne, Maryland

Princess Anne is a small town in Somerset County, Maryland. It is the county seat and the largest town in the county. The town has a rich history that dates back several centuries.

Princess Anne was first settled by English colonists in the early 18th century. It was named after Princess Anne of Denmark and Norway, who became the Queen of England, Scotland, and Ireland in 1702. The town was incorporated in 1733 and became an important commercial center in the region.

During the American Revolutionary War, Princess Anne, like many other towns in the area, experienced economic decline and disruption. However, after the war, the town slowly recovered and resumed its role as a commercial and trading hub.

In the 19th century, Princess Anne's economy benefited from the growth of the agricultural industry in Somerset County. The town became a major shipping point for goods such as tobacco, corn, and seafood. Its location on the Manokin River also facilitated trade and transportation.

Princess Anne played a significant role during the Civil War. The town was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces at different times during the conflict. In 1864, a Confederate raiding party known as the Rehoboth Rebels attacked and burned parts of the town. However, Princess Anne managed to recover and rebuild following the war.

Throughout the 20th century, Princess Anne continued to develop as a center of commerce and government. The town's historic district features many well-preserved 18th and 19th-century homes and buildings, reflecting its rich architectural heritage. The nearby University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) was founded in 1886 and has become an important educational and cultural institution in the town.

Today, Princess Anne remains a charming and historic town, known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts community, and historical significance. The town is proud of its heritage and works to preserve its historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, visit local art galleries and museums, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Attractions

Teackle Mansion

Teackle Mansion

A historic mansion built in 1802, offering guided tours and a glimpse into the area's history.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

A historically black university with a beautiful campus. Visitors can explore the campus, visit the university's art galleries, or catch a sporting event.

Somerset County Historical Society

A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Somerset County. It features exhibits on local industries, including agriculture and seafood.

Washington Inn and Tavern

A historic landmark dating back to 1744. The inn offers fine dining and a cozy atmosphere.

The People's Plaza

A public square that hosts local events such as farmers markets, concerts, and festivals.

Somerset County Courthouse

A historic courthouse that is worth a visit for its architectural significance.

Janes Island State Park

Located nearby in Crisfield, this state park offers hiking trails, boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. It is known for its scenic beauty and pristine marshlands.

Mar-Va Theater Performing Arts Center

A historic theater that hosts live performances, concerts, and movie screenings.

Smith Island

Although not located in Princess Anne, it is a nearby island accessible by ferry from Crisfield. Smith Island is known for its unique culture, distinctive dialect, and delicious homemade cakes.

Chesapeake Bay

Princess Anne is located near the Chesapeake Bay, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying waterfront activities.

Climate

Princess Anne, MD has a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Princess Anne are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 90°F (32°C). High levels of humidity can make the summers feel even hotter.

Winters in Princess Anne are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to 50°F (10°C). Snowfall is relatively low, averaging around 9 inches per year. However, winter precipitation primarily comes in the form of rain.

Spring and autumn in Princess Anne are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Springtime temperatures range from 45°F (7°C) to 70°F (21°C), while autumn temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) to 65°F (18°C).

Princess Anne experiences a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. The wettest months are typically July and August, while the driest months are typically May and June. Thunderstorms are relatively common during the summer months.

Overall, Princess Anne's climate is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Princess Anne is a small town located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. While it may not have clearly defined neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few notable areas within the town:

Downtown

The heart of Princess Anne, the Downtown area is home to a number of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Many of the town's events and festivals also take place in this area.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Area

Princess Anne is also home to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a historically black university. The area surrounding the campus sees a vibrant student community with off-campus housing options available.

Residential Areas

Surrounding the core of the town, there are various residential areas with homes of different sizes and architectural styles. These neighborhoods often consist of primarily single-family homes.

Somerset Avenue

This is a main road that runs through Princess Anne, lined with several businesses, restaurants, and services. It serves as a connecting point for various parts of the town.

Rural Surroundings

Beyond the town limits, Princess Anne is surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes with farms, fields, and open spaces. This offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere away from the more populated areas.

Overall, while Princess Anne may not have distinct neighborhood divisions, the town offers a mix of history, a bustling downtown, residential areas, and a connection to the nearby University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

Nearby Cities