Discover Talbot County, Maryland
Experience the Charm of Maryland’s Eastern Shore! From picturesque waterfront views and historic towns to world-class dining and outdoor adventures, Talbot County offers something for everyone. Plan your getaway today!
About the Area
Talbot County, Maryland, offers a rich blend of attractions, dining experiences, and events that cater to a variety of interests. Here's a curated list to help you explore the best of the county:
Local Attractions and Sights:
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum: Located in St. Michaels, this museum offers interactive exhibits showcasing the maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay.
Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe: Situated in Easton, this park honors the legacy of Frederick Douglass with scenic trails and educational displays.
Oxford-Bellevue Ferry: Experience one of the nation's oldest privately operated ferries, providing picturesque crossings between Oxford and Bellevue.
Talbot Historical Society Museum: Located in Easton, this museum features approximately 1,000 vintage photos that narrate the story of Talbot County and its residents.
Notable Restaurants:
Bistro St. Michaels: A highly-rated restaurant in St. Michaels, offering a menu that blends classic and contemporary dishes.
Limoncello Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar: Located in St. Michaels, this establishment provides authentic Italian cuisine complemented by an extensive wine selection.
Hunters' Tavern at the Tidewater Inn: Situated in Easton, this tavern offers a relaxed fine dining experience with a menu featuring fresh Maryland seafood.
Out of the Fire: A popular spot in Easton known for its contemporary American cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
Scossa Restaurant & Lounge: An Easton-based restaurant offering Italian dishes in an elegant setting.
Upcoming Events in March 2025:
Talbot Historical Society Museum Exhibits: Open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 3 PM, showcasing vintage photos that tell the story of Talbot County and its people. Located at 25 S. Washington Street, Easton.
Tom Farrell Memorial Ice Hockey Tournament: Scheduled for March 9, 2025, this annual tournament honors Tom Farrell's dedication to the sport.
St. Michaels Community Events:
Friday Sandwich Special at The Fool's Lantern: Every Friday in March 2025.
Simpatico Free Wine Tasting: Weekends in March 2025.
Bottomless Mimosas at The Galley Restaurant: Sundays in March 2025.
Easton Farmers Market: An ongoing event featuring local vendors and fresh produce.
History of the Area
Early History and Colonial Period (1600s-1700s)
Talbot County was established in 1661, making it one of the oldest counties in Maryland. It was named after Lady Grace Talbot, the sister of Lord Baltimore, who founded the Maryland colony. The region quickly became a hub for agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, which was the dominant cash crop during the colonial period.
The county's location along the Chesapeake Bay made it an essential part of Maryland’s maritime industry, with shipbuilding and trade flourishing in towns like Oxford, which was founded in 1683 as one of the first official ports in the colony. St. Michaels, another prominent town, became known for shipbuilding and later for its role in the War of 1812.
The Revolutionary War and War of 1812
During the American Revolution, many Talbot County residents supported the patriot cause, and local militias were formed to defend against British attacks. By the early 19th century, Talbot County played a role in the War of 1812, particularly in St. Michaels. The town is famously known for "The Battle of St. Michaels," where residents dimmed their lights and raised lanterns in the trees to deceive British cannons, causing the enemy to overshoot their targets. This clever tactic led to St. Michaels being nicknamed "The Town That Fooled the British."
Slavery, Abolition, and Frederick Douglass
Talbot County was home to a large enslaved population before the Civil War, but it also had a strong free Black community. One of the county’s most famous residents was Frederick Douglass, who was born into slavery near Tuckahoe Creek in 1818. Douglass escaped and became one of the most influential abolitionists, orators, and writers of his time. His legacy is honored throughout Talbot County, including at the Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe and through various historical markers.
Civil War and Reconstruction
Though Maryland was a border state during the Civil War, Talbot County had both Union and Confederate sympathizers. Many free African Americans and formerly enslaved people from the area enlisted in the Union Army. After the war, Talbot County saw significant efforts in education and civil rights, particularly with the establishment of schools for Black children, such as The Talbot County Free School and The Robert Russa Moton School.
20th Century to Present: Maritime, Agriculture, and Tourism
Throughout the 20th century, Talbot County continued to thrive as an agricultural and maritime center. The seafood industry, particularly crabbing and oystering, became a major economic driver. Meanwhile, the county’s picturesque waterfront towns attracted artists, writers, and tourists, transforming places like Easton, St. Michaels, and Oxford into cultural and historical destinations.
Today, Talbot County is known for its charming historic districts, thriving arts scene, and commitment to preserving its rich history. Events such as the Waterfowl Festival in Easton celebrate the area’s heritage, while sites like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum educate visitors on the region’s maritime past.
Talbot County continues to honor its deep historical roots while embracing modern growth, making it a unique and historically significant part of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.