Are you looking for family-friendly activities in Worcester, MD? Look no further than the Taylor Museum in Berlin, MD. Originally set for demolition in 1981, this 19th Century home now serves as a museum in the Town of Berlin, filled with a rich, local history, that satisfies the curiosities of locals and out-of-towners alike.
The Taylor Museum was built in 1832 for Isaac Covington and his family. This gable-fronted, Federal-style house was saved from demolition in 1981 and now serves as a Town museum of local history. While many of the original features of this structure were changed in the late 19th century, the magnificent front doorway with its butterfly modillions, sunbursts, and fluted-edge columns remain noteworthy.
In addition, the original interior wood graining has been carefully restored. The main block of the house is furnished with period pieces as a house museum while the west wing gallery features exhibits and displays of local memorabilia.
In the 1890s and early 20th century, it was the home of Calvin B. Taylor and his wife Mattie. Mr. Taylor was an educator, lawyer, and founder of the Calvin B. Taylor Banking Company in Berlin. During their occupancy, the Taylors made several changes to the house including a back-wing addition and the installation of stained-glass windows to the front.
The exhibits in the second-floor gallery tell the Stories of Berlin. “The Race of the Century”, in which long shot, Seabiscuit triumphed over the favorite, War Admiral, has interesting connections to the town of Berlin. The life of Isaiah Fassett, a civil war veteran, born enslaved on the outskirts of Berlin, is showcased with a narrated exhibit that includes copies of his manumission papers.
Click Here For An Excerpt From the Exhibit!
The Taylor House Museum hosts a variety of events to share the house and lawn with the community. The annual Peach Festival in August invites everyone to visit our lawn to purchase local peaches, listen to music, take part in games, contests and buy food from local nonprofits.
Our Sunday Evenings at the Museum held on the 2nd Sundays in June, July, August, and September, include such attractions as local musicians, speakers, films, and authors. In October, we celebrate local history and our community with our Harvest Homecoming Event. This event showcases the Stories of Berlin by collecting oral histories, sharing genealogies, and presenting music from local schools. December brings our Classical Christmas series with music, candlelight tours, and Wassail & Gingerbread events.
Located in the heart of Berlin’s National Register Historic District, the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum is a favorite stop for community members and visiting tourists alike!
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