ECC Visitor Guide 2026 - Flipbook - Page 25
PORT TOBACCO
COURTHOUSE
A reconstruction of the original 1819
structure, the courthouse is now a
museum that explores the tobacco trade,
the Civil War’s impact on the area, and
exciting archaeological discoveries. The
site is also a National Underground
Railroad Network to Freedom site; two
African Americans were tried here in
1845 for their efforts to assist over 30
armed freedom seekers.
STAGG HALL
Step inside Stagg Hall, one of Southern
Maryland’s best-preserved colonial
homes. Knowledgeable guides bring the
building’s history to life with intriguing
stories. Fun facts: Stagg Hall’s hearth
and chimney are the oldest structures
in the village, and the Art Institute of
Chicago once paid to display an entire
room from the house! The homeowners
later repurchased the room and had it
carefully reinstalled.
WASHINGTON BURCH HOUSE
The home of Washington Burch, a
formerly enslaved man, tells a story of
resilience and leadership. After the Civil
War, Burch purchased this 18th-century
home, opened a school for African
American children, served as a state
delegate, and even acted as the local
jailer. His house remains one of the last
Colonial-era homes in the area.
Fun Fact
Visitors to Stagg Hall will be delighted by the
recreated merchant store once operated by partners
Barnes and Ridgate. Every item on display appears
in the original store catalog (you can even spot it on
Ridgate’s desk). Guests of all ages are encouraged to
pick up and interact with the goods!
Be sure to stop by Port Tobacco One Room
School House just around the corner.
ExploreCharlesCounty.com
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