A Day in Historic Chestertown – 2025 AGM Fundraiser

A day in historic Chestertown on the Eastern Shore of Maryland – April 26, 2025 10am-5pm

Come see how Americans were living during Jane Austen’s lifetime in this important riverport of the time. The morning walking tour of the historic downtown will cover the history of the area as well as stops to see inside Magnolia House, a middle/ upper middle class 1700s home * and Sumner Hall, one of two existing African-American Grand Army of the Republic buildings still standing in the U.S. Built circa 1908, it played an important role in strengthening community for Civil War veterans and other local African-Americans.

Relax after lunch with a fixed price menu made especially for our group at The Retriever Bar. It has an upscale, cozy Pub vibe. The proprietor, Neyah White, is curating a selection of historic alcohol choices for purchase that would have been enjoyed in Austen’s time. Non-alcoholic drinks, tax and tip will be included with lunch.

We have booked the Chester River Packet for an hour and a half afternoon cruise that will let us socialize while enjoying the countryside. Because the area is mainly agrarian, we will have similar views to the colonial and federal era time periods. There will be a knowledgeable local on-board for any questions. *Cash bar available*

Our final tour of the day will be a private home built circa 1760-1780 by a very wealthy local merchant. It was in the dowry of his only child, a daughter, who married into one of the most prominent Philadelphia families in the nation at that time. On the National Register of Historic Places, Rose Hill had the largest private ballroom in Kent County when it was built. You will easily be able to imagine Anne Elliott playing for the Musgrove sister’s enjoyment and sit in a window seat that was designed for someone to enjoy watching English Country dancing!

This inspiring day has been designed to get a feel for 18th century living at affordable price points. Non-members are welcome. The total price for all activities is $150. Guests may choose to skip the walking tour ($40) and/or the afternoon cruise ($25) in favor of exploring the local farmer’s market and unique boutique stores. We have a limit of 50 participants.

When guests have registered below, they will receive details for where to send payment and to choose their lunch offerings. We will also provide car pool information, maps for parking and meeting places, as well as recommendations for local dining whether you are staying in Chestertown for the night, heading back over the Bay Bridge or points North of Chestertown. Participants who want to spend more time in the area can visit Chestertown’s visitor’s center on-line or in person for ideas about activities they would enjoy in the area.

$150/pp Full Day: Morning Walking Tour, Lunch, Chester River Packet Cruise and Rose Hill Tour
$125/pp Partial Option 1: Morning Walking Tour, Lunch and Rose Hill Tour
$120/pp Partial Option 2: Lunch, Chester River Packet Cruise and Rose Hill Tour
$95/pp Partial Option 3: Lunch and Rose Hill Tour only

Space is limited
Register Here by 4/18: https://forms.gle/8fiPNqdXvnN9h8DF8
Questions: Agm2025treas@gmail.com

Payment must be received by 4/18 to secure your space.  
Refunds for can be issued up until 4/18 minus a $50 donation to the AGM.