SOUTHERN MARYLAND Pay Tribute to the U.S. Colored Troops Did you know some 600 men from St. Mary’s County were members of the U.S. Colored Troops and served during the Civil War? Enslaved and free men fought and laid down their lives for the Union. Among the soldiers, two local men were awarded medals of honor. The United States Colored Troops Memorial Monument at John G. Lancaster Park in Lexington consists of a bronze statue and a marker that commemorates these American heroes. College of Maryland) stages world premieres and works that celebrate the Chesapeake. Explore History, Enjoy Recreation Point Lookout State Park melds history and recreation. Located along the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, the state park is home to a Civil War Confederate prisoner of war camp (described as America’s most haunted place), and Point Lookout Light, a lighthouse built in 1830. Besides Ft. Lincoln and the Point Lookout Civil War Museum, the popular park also has campsites, cabins, a beach, fishing pier, picnic areas and boat rentals. Leonardtown Wharf Enjoy a Chesapeake Concert For more than two decades, the Chesapeake Orchestra has performed a repertoire of classical, jazz, bluegrass and the blues for captivated audiences. Led by maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag, the professional orchestra (in residency at St. Mary’s Visit a Park that Honors an American Patriot William Smallwood, a Revolutionary War patriot who became a Maryland governor, hailed from Charles County. Today, the 628-acre Smallwood State Park bears his name. The historic mansion where Smallwood resided is open for tours, and the park, which overlooks Mattawoman Creek, has a marina, nature trails, campgrounds and picnic sites. Book Passage for Fun Plan a trip on a head boat or board a local charter out of Scotland, Ridge or Dameron for a day of rockfishing. Or stroll the Leonardtown Wharf and rent a kayak from the Patuxent Adventure Center to explore Breton Bay, just a few easy paddle strokes from downtown. Follow the Trail of John Wilkes Booth Trace the fugitive flight of John Wilkes Booth, and pull back the curtains on his sinister plot at the Dr. Mudd House and Surratt House museums. Stay Live It Up at a Beach Resort The Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa offers waterfront accommodations and ample ways to enjoy luxury. Your options include a 120-slip marina, complete with charter boats. Feeling lucky? There’s onsite gaming and bingo. The beach and pool may beckon, or pamper yourself with spa treatments like an enzyme detox wrap or couple’s massage. The Rod `N’ Reel serves Maryland seafood prepared with classic recipes, while the Boardwalk Café delivers casual eats, live music and stunning views. Point Lookout State Park, Scotland 102 ✥ VISITMARYLAND.ORG | 1-877-333-4455 PHOTOS: VISIT ST. MARY’S COUNTY
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2018 Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 102
