Stratton
a.k.a. QA-90; Hortense Fleckenstein Farm;Solomon Scott Farm
3102 Ruthsburg Rd., Centreville, MD Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Maryland was originally intended to be called "Crescentia": Lord Baltimore's original plan was to name the colony after the Queen Henrietta Maria, the wife of King Charles I. However, the name was already taken, so he proposed the name "Crescentia" instead. The name was eventually changed to "Maryland" in honor of Henrietta Maria.
In 1706, Queen Anne's County was officially established and named after Queen Anne of Great Britain. It quickly became an important center for trade and commerce, thanks to its ideal location along the Eastern Shore and its deepwater ports. Over the years, the county's economy thrived on agriculture, with tobacco being the primary crop. However, as the tobacco industry declined in the late 18th century, the county shifted towards other agricultural activities such as wheat, corn, and vegetable farming.
During the American Revolutionary War, Queen Anne's County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Many local residents joined the colonial forces, while others remained loyal to the British Crown. The county also saw its share of conflicts during the War of 1812 when the British launched multiple attacks on the Chesapeake Bay region, including the famous Battle of Caulk's Field, which took place in Queen Anne's County.
In the 20th century, Queen Anne's County embraced tourism, taking advantage of its beautiful landscapes and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay. Numerous historic sites, such as the historic Stevensville district and the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center, were established, welcoming visitors from near and far. Today, Queen Anne's County continues to thrive as a hub for recreational activities, agriculture, and as a charming destination for history enthusiasts.
Queen Anne's County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Queen Anne's County, Maryland.
- 1706 - Queen Anne's County is established as part of Maryland's colony.
- 1766 - The county seat is established in Centreville.
- 1776 - Queen Anne's County residents support the American Revolution.
- 1801 - The U.S. Congress authorizes the construction of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, which is completed in 1829.
- 1813 - The British fleet attacks and burns multiple towns in Queen Anne's County during the War of 1812.
- 1849 - The first railroad, Queen Anne's Railroad, begins operation in the county.
- 1863 - A small skirmish occurs at Queen Anne's Railroad Bridge during the Civil War.
- 1876 - The Chesapeake Bay Railway opens, improving transportation in the county.
- 1906 - A new county courthouse is built in Centreville.
- 1952 - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge connects the county to the Eastern Shore and boosts tourism.
- 1985 - Queen Anne's County evolves as a popular suburb due to its proximity to major cities.