50th Historical Society of Kent County House & Garden Tour: Hidden Gems of Chestertown

The Historical Society of Kent County proudly presents the 50th Annual House & Garden Tour, a beloved tradition celebrating Chestertown’s rich architectural heritage. This year’s milestone event, Hidden Gems of Chestertown, will take place on Saturday, June 7, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The 2025 tour invites guests to explore a curated selection of private homes and gardens, many rarely open to the public, that reflect the town’s rich architectural legacy, from the 18th century through the early 20th century. All tour sites are tucked within a charming and walkable neighborhood in Chestertown’s Historic District, each stop on the tour revealing a unique layer of local history, design, and character.

Docents at each location will be on hand to share stories about the homes’ architecture, restoration efforts, and historical significance. All participants will receive a beautifully designed keepsake brochure featuring photos, detailed descriptions, and highlights from Chestertown’s past.

In addition to the private residences, Christ United Methodist Church at 401 High Street will be open to all tour-goers. Docents will be stationed in the church to share the rich history and enduring legacy of this prominent Chestertown landmark. The church will also serve as a convenient stop for restroom facilities during the tour.

Advance tickets are available now at www.kentcountyhistory.org. More information is available from the Historical Society at director@kentcountyhistory.org or by calling (410) 778-3499.

This year’s tour is dedicated to Cynthia Saunders, a longtime volunteer and Historical Society board member whose leadership was instrumental in organizing the 48th and 49th House & Garden Tours. Her dedication and enthusiasm have helped make this event a highlight of the local calendar.

Make a Day of It in Chestertown!

June 7 will be the perfect day to explore everything Chestertown has to offer. In addition to the 50th Annual House & Garden Tour, visitors can enjoy the Chestertown Farmers’ Market in the morning, catch live performances as part of the nationally acclaimed National Music Festival, and take part in the Museums of Kent Driving Tour, which highlights historic sites throughout the county.

With so much to see and do, it’s a can’t-miss opportunity to experience the culture, charm, and community that make Chestertown such a special place to be.

The Historical Society offers a welcoming community and invites all to get involved. Membership benefits include unlimited use of the Genealogy and Research Library (by appointment), a discount on books in the museum gift shop, and invitations to members-only events, among others. A donation of $25 is recommended for individual memberships, and $40 for families. Student memberships are always free. Visit www.kentcountyhistory.org or email admin@kentcountyhistory.org for more information.