Teackle Mansion in Princess Anne, MD: Historic Estate Near Washington Hotel on Maryland's Eastern Shore
- Willie
- Nov 5
- 3 min read
If you're spending a night (or two!) at the Washington Hotel in Princess Anne, there's one nearby spot that history lovers and architecture buffs won't want to miss -- Teackle Mansion. Located just a five-minute stroll from the hotel, this grand estate isn't just a beautiful old building; it's a glimpse into the life and luxury of Maryland's Eastern Shore nearly two centuries ago.
A Stately Treasure with a Story to Tell
Built in the early 1800s by Littleton Dennis Teackle and his wife, Elizabeth Upshur Teackle, the mansion was designed to make an impression -- and it still does. The Teackles were well-to-do merchants and social figures of their day, and their home reflected that status. Imagine arriving to a stately brick residence surrounded by manicured grounds, its tall windows and columned portico glowing in the afternoon sun. Inside, sweeping hallways, delicate plasterwork, and soaring ceilings tell stories of a time when craftsmanship was both art and status symbol.
It took nearly two decades to complete, but the result was nothing short of stunning. Every inch of the mansion -- from its graceful staircases to its intricate woodwork -- was designed to evoke classical European elegance. The Teackles' attention to detail even extended to features rare for the era, like a marble bathtub and an innovative steam-powered kitchen system. Today, those features are preserved with care, offering visitors a rare peek into early 19th-century innovation and design.
A Living Landmark
Now cared for by the Somerset County Historical Society, Teackle Mansion stands as both a museum and a monument to local heritage. Its distinctive five-part architecture and Federal-era design make it one of the most significant homes of its kind on the Eastern Shore -- so much so that it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Step inside, and it feels like the past is still breathing here. Rooms are furnished in period style, complete with heirlooms, artwork, and antique decor that transport you back to the days when horse-drawn carriages rolled past the front lawn. Docents share stories of the Teackle family's life -- from their lavish parties to the household's daily routines -- bringing personality and warmth to every corner.
You'll notice fascinating details, like false doors built for symmetry, mirrored alcoves that amplify light, and plaster medallions that seem to bloom across the ceilings. These aren't just architectural quirks; they're part of what makes this mansion a masterclass in early American style.
Plan Your Visit
Teackle Mansion is open for tours from April through November, typically Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 1:00 and 3:00 PM (with the last tour starting around 2:30). Admission is affordable -- $10 for adults and $5 for students, with free entry for young children. Group tours are also available by appointment, and special seasonal events sometimes bring the house to life with costumed interpreters, music, or candlelight.
To make the most of your visit, consider pairing your mansion tour with a walking exploration of downtown Princess Anne. Historic homes, boutique shops and quiet streets lines with centuries-old architecture make for a charming afternoon -- and when you're done, you're only a short walk back to the Washington Hotel.
Stay, Dine, and Savor the Story on the Eastern Shore
After immersing yourself in the Teackles' world of 19th-century grace, come back to a bit of your own modern comfort. The Washington Hotel, built in 1744, shares that same reverence for history while offering cozy guest rooms and welcoming hospitality.
Once you've freshened up, head downstairs to Sugar Water Restaurant, where farm-and-water-to-table dishes carry on the Eastern Shore's long culinary tradition. Sip a glass of wine, enjoy a seafood dinner, and toast to a day spent discovering the timeless charm of Princess Anne.
Tips for a Perfect Day
Wear comfortable shoes -- you'll want to wander!
Call ahead to confirm tour hours, especially in the off-season.
Don't rush. Every corner of the mansion has a detail worth noticing.
Explore nearby sites, like the South Gate House and historic downtown Princess Anne.
Step Back in Time -- Then Stay the Night
Teackle Mansion is more than a destination -- it's a portal to another era. Just minutes from your room at the Washington Hotel, it's a chance to walk the same halls as the families who helped shape the Eastern Shore's story.
Whether you're a history buff, a lover of old architecture, or simply curious about the stories behind Maryland's small-town charm, Teackle Mansion is a must-see stop.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and start your day with a little time travel -- history awaits just down the street from your stay at the Washington Hotel.