Historic Inns of Annapolis History

The Maryland Inn Governor Calvert House Robert Johnson House

Annapolis, Maryland exudes American history. Home to more 18th century buildings than any other city in the United States, history comes alive on the streets of Annapolis. The delightful boutique hotels of the Historic Inns of Annapolis are filled with a fascinating history of their own. Here are the stories of The Maryland Inn, Governor Calvert House, and Robert Johnson House.

The Maryland Inn.

The crown jewel of the Historic Inns of Annapolis family, The Maryland Inn has played host to presidents, governors, statesmen, and other important dignitaries since the 18th century. History shows that 11 delegates of the 1783-1784 US Congress stayed at the inn when George Washington resigned in Annapolis as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army and ratified the Treaty of Paris. Benjamin Franklin and John Adams are also said to have enjoyed a pint or two at the inn’s tavern.

The Maryland Hotel Company acquired the inn in 1868. The Maryland Inn soon became one of the most prominent hotels in Annapolis. In 1953, the inn was acquired by buyers who recognized the property’s historical significance. An intensive restoration program was initiated to restore the inn to its colonial glory. Paul Pearson purchased the 44-room boutique hotel in the 1970s and further enhanced the historical integrity of The Maryland Inn. Décor reflects the inn’s Victorian era in terms of colors, textures, and fine antiques. The inn’s wooden porches are period enhancements. [Top]

Governor Calvert House.

The Governor Calvert House, located at 58 State Circle, is one of the oldest buildings in Annapolis. The original home dates back to 1695 and comprises part of the hotel. The Calvert family was a prominent Maryland family and lived in the house from 1727 until the American Revolution. The only governor to live in the house was Benedict Leonard Calvert who held office from 1727 to 1731. When Calvert was replaced as governor in 1731 he left Maryland and sailed for England. He died on ship and was buried at sea in 1732. Governor Calvert is credited with making significant changes to the house for optimum comfort, including a hypocaust heating system. This primitive system constructed of wood and bricks is considered one of the earliest hypocausts built in the United States. Remnants of the Calvert House hypocaust are displayed beneath a glass-floored room near the entry of the building. Fire destroyed much of the building in 1764. The remains of the house were incorporated into a two-story Georgian-style building that was used for barracks by the State of Maryland until 1784. George Washington’s stepson lived at the Calvert House in the 1770s and is thus assumed that the president may have visited the property on occasion.

Today, the Governor Calvert House features 51 stately guestrooms, a conference center for small to medium-size events, an elegant ballroom, and an atrium. The Governor Calvert House is proof that history often repeats itself, especially with notable guests. The elegant boutique hotel is home to Maryland state legislatures each year when they convene at the Maryland State House located across the street.

The Governor Calvert House serves as the check-in center for each of the three Historic Inns of Annapolis hotels. [Top]

Robert Johnson House.

The 29-room Robert Johnson House located at 23 State Circle comprises three artfully restored houses with views of the Governor’s Mansion and the State House. From the 1770s to mid-1800s, The Robert Johnson House was home to three different members of the Johnson family who were prominent officials in city, state and national government. The home was sold out of the family in 1856.

Joshua Brown occupied the Robert Johnson House for the next few decades. Brown was involved in the construction of the city’s first rail line that linked Annapolis with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at Annapolis Junction. William Bellis, a tailor by trade and a Civil War veteran, bought the house in 1880 and lived there with his wife and three children. Bellis’ daughter, Maud, married Charles Morrow in 1891 and acquired the title to the home in 1902.

The Historic Inns of Annapolis purchased the Robert Johnson House in 1983. A careful and elegant restoration included the furnishing of several guest rooms with 19th century antiques and décor that is tailored to feature each room’s unique location and orientation. [Top]