Southern MD Real Estate and Community Info

History
Nineteenth century southern Maryland was largely agrarian in nature, with tobacco and wheat farming dominant. Later, crabbing and oyster fishing became popular. Until the 1930s, passenger and freight steamboats served area residents until a major bridge on U.S. Route 301 finally linked the region to points west.
Parks and Recreation
Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum (JPPM) features an Indian village recreation. The 560-acre park lies along the Patuxent River in Calvert County. It is also the home of the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory and its 8 million artifacts. The exhibit barn is open several days a week from March to November. JPPM offers a free canoe and kayak launch. Once you're out on the water, watch for the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead.

Attractions and Activities
Budd's Creek Motocross Park in Mechanicsville, Maryland, is one of the nation's preeminent motocross facilities. It has hosted the AMA Nationals and three world championships. The valley location creates a natural amphitheater setting that's ideal for viewing the races.
Historic St. Mary's City is the home of Dove, a tall ship that is a replica of the one that first brought European settlers to the area in 1634. Historic St. Mary's is an 800-acre living history museum that became a National Historic Landmark in 1969. Visit the 1667 brick chapel, 1676 State House and a tobacco plantations while you are here. Costumed volunteers bring the rich history of the community to life with intriguing stories and interesting facts.
Southern Maryland has historic lighthouses that played a vital role in protecting shipping interests and steamboat services. Piney Point Lighthouse in St. Mary's County dates to 1836. Today, it is a museum. The Drum Point Lighthouse is adjacent to the Calvert Marine Museum. Cove Point Lighthouse is a meticulously restored, active facility originally built for less than $6,000 in the early 19th century.
Portions of southern Maryland possess a soil composition that has been compared to that of Tuscany in Italy. Not surprisingly, a number of vineyards and wineries operate in southern Maryland. Follow the Patuxent Wine Trail, attending wine tastings along the way.
Festivals and Annual Events

The Brew and BBQ Festival in historic Leonardtown is another mid-summer festival to enjoy. Savor craft beers and local wines along with some of the best BBQ in Maryland. The event is held at the St. Mary's County Fairgrounds. Live music fills the air, and younger attendees always find fun at the Kid's Zone. In October, attend the blessing of the fleet at the historic, 40-acre St. Clement's Island where the first European settlers landed. During a visit to St. Clement's Island Museum at Colton's Point, you'll step back in time to the 17th century.
Real Estate in Southern Maryland
D.C. commuters looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, military personnel, retirees, entrepreneurs with local businesses all find that southern Maryland offers properties that address every budget and taste.
I'd welcome the opportunity to share much more about southern Maryland's endless recreational and housing opportunities. Please contact Gerri Ross today!