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Religious Liberty and History in Maryland

Religious Freedom in St. Mary’s City

At the southern end of Maryland’s coastline, about 90 miles south of the Washington metro area, St. Mary’s County is a beautiful waterfront destination steeped in history. Groups can explore the area’s heritage in detail at Historic St. Mary’s City, an 800-acre living-history site that interprets the town as it was when it served as Maryland’s first capital in the mid 1600s.

Visitors can choose from a variety of tour experiences at Historic St. Mary’s City. One of the most interesting for church groups will be the State and Church tour, which examines Maryland’s role as one of the first areas in Colonial America to enact religious liberties for its inhabitants.

Guests at Historic St. Mary’s City can also explore a re-creation of the Maryland Dove, the ship that brought Maryland settlers to the New World from England, as well as exhibits on the area’s Native American inhabitants and Maryland farm life.

While you’re there: Maritime heritage abounds along the St. Mary’s shoreline. The area has four lighthouses, including the Piney Point Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac. A museum at that lighthouse also has exhibits on historic vessels that sailed in the area.

www.visitstmarysmd.com

Navy Spirit in Annapolis

About 70 miles north of St. Marys, Annapolis is Maryland’s quintessential Chesapeake Bay destination. It is also home to the U.S. Naval Academy, whose historic chapel will be inspiring to travelers of any religious background.

The Beaux Arts-style chapel, whose iconic dome is a key feature of the Annapolis skyline, was built in two sections. The original section, finished in 1908, was built in the shape of a Greek cross. A nave added in 1940 changed the shape of the chapel to that of a Latin cross. The chapel seats up to 2,500 people and hosts both Protestant and Catholic worship services every week.

Visitors can see the chapel as part of Naval Academy walking tours. The chapel is also open to the public for visits and prayer when regular services or special events are not taking place. Visitors must show a photo identification to enter the academy grounds.

While you’re there: Annapolis companies and outfitters offer groups many ways to get out on the water and explore the Chesapeake Bay. Traditional boat cruises offer scenic views and informational narratives. More adventurous guests can opt for paddleboarding, fishing charters and other nautical excursions.

www.visitannapolis.org

Brian Jewell

Brian Jewell is the executive editor of The Group Travel Leader. In more than a decade of travel journalism he has visited 48 states and 25 foreign countries.