Historic Sotterley, a National Historic Landmark, has a history dating back to the turn of the 18th century and is one of the oldest museums of its kind in the United States. Many have called this place home over its 300 year history - some came to prosper; others worked the land, either for wages or under bondage. With the vision of fostering a better understanding of our world today by providing a living link to America's complex history and legacy of slavery, Historic Sotterley's mission is to preserve its historic structures and natural environment and use the powerful stories of land, lives, and labor to bring American history to life while serving as an educational and cultural resource. Consisting of almost 100 acres of breathtaking beauty on the Patuxent River, Historic Sotterley includes over six miles of nature trails, Colonial Revival Gardens, a working farm, and over 20 historic buildings featuring the 1703 Manor House and the only surviving original 1830's Slave Cabin. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history and cultures at Historic Sotterley, including a wide variety of events and programming offered throughout the year. Become part of Historic Sotterley's legacy through membership! Accessible by water, call for information. Grounds open year-round.

Guided tour season: May 1 - Oct. 31, Wednesdays - Sundays. Museum Store is open during tour season. Group Tours available.

Featured in "The 25 Best Historic Homes in America" by Traditional Home Magazine.

African-American Heritage

National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. Historic Sotterley's 1830's slave cabin exemplifies typical slave housing in the Tidewater region yet also features unique architectural elements. The interpretive program incorporates the story of the Kane Family's time at Historic Sotterley which spanned the pre and post -Civil War Eras. The site also features a main dwelling and numerous outbuildings dating from the early 18th through the early 20th centuries. Tours focusing on African-American life at Historic Sotterley by advance arrangement.

Birding

A Tidewater Plantation on the banks of the Patuxent River. The Manor House, out-buildings and gardens are located on a rise above the lower fields along the river. The garden and the lower fields are good for open country birds. From MD 235, turn east on MD 245 and follow the signs to Sotterley.

Civil War History

Dating from the early 18th century, the tobacco plantation was dependent on slaves. One original slave cabin, dating from the 1830's survives. The interpretive program incorporates the Civil War Era and includes the story of the Kane Family's time at Historic Sotterley which spanned that period.

War of 1812

The plantation was a mustering site for local militia aiding the Chesapeake Flotilla. More than 40 slaves escaped to British vessels. Tour Historic Sotterley and see special War of 1812-related sites.

Sotterley Museum Shop

Find unique colonial gifts at Sotterley's Museum Shop/Visitor Center. The Visitor Center and Museum Shop are housed in the Knott Farmhouse and are the first stop when visiting. The Museum Shop offers a wonderful selection of books, historical, cookbooks, regional and special interests, books for children, and books written by the lecturers of the Sotterley Speaker Series. The shop also offers colonial toys, jewelry, local crafts, garden accents, wine accessories, t-shirts, and more.