William Paca House | Annapolis

The William Paca House, located at 186 Prince George Street in Annapolis, Maryland, is a beautifully preserved Georgian-style mansion and a significant historic landmark. It was the home of William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a three-term governor of Maryland. The house stands as a testament to 18th-century colonial architecture and the life of one of Maryland’s most influential patriots.

Historical Background

Built between 1763 and 1765, the William Paca House was originally constructed as a summer residence on the outskirts of Annapolis. William Paca, a prominent lawyer, statesman, and founding father, used this home as a retreat from his political and professional duties. The house remained in the Paca family for several generations before falling into disrepair in the 20th century.

In the 1930s, the house was purchased and restored by the Historic Annapolis Foundation, which undertook extensive efforts to preserve its architectural integrity and historical significance. Today, it operates as a museum open to the public.

Architectural Features

The William Paca House is a classic example of Georgian architecture, characterized by its symmetry, proportion, and decorative details:

Exterior: The brick mansion features a balanced five-bay façade, sash windows with shutters, and a prominent central doorway with an elaborate pediment supported by pilasters.

Interior: The interior layout includes a central hallway with two rooms on either side, adorned with original wood paneling, period fireplaces, and ornate plasterwork. The rooms display fine 18th-century craftsmanship and decorative arts.

Garden: One of the most celebrated aspects of the property is its restored formal garden, which reflects 18th-century landscape design. The garden includes terraced boxwood parterres, brick pathways, and a fountain, designed to complement the house’s elegance and provide a serene outdoor space.

Historical Significance

William Paca played a vital role in the American Revolution, serving on the Continental Congress and signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. His Annapolis home was a center of political discussion and social activity during this transformative period.

The house also offers insight into colonial domestic life, architecture, and garden design, making it an invaluable educational resource for understanding 18th-century America.

Preservation and Museum Role

Operated by Historic Annapolis, the William Paca House is maintained as a museum dedicated to the history of the Paca family, colonial Annapolis, and the American Revolution. The museum offers guided tours that highlight the architectural features, historical context, and stories associated with the house and its inhabitants.

The preservation of the formal gardens adds to the authenticity of the site, offering visitors an immersive experience of colonial-era aesthetics and horticulture.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the William Paca House can explore the meticulously restored rooms furnished with period-appropriate decor, gaining a sense of 18th-century elite lifestyle. The guided tours provide detailed narratives about William Paca’s contributions to American independence, the architectural details of the home, and the significance of the garden design.

The property’s location within the Annapolis Historic District makes it accessible for those touring the city’s rich historical sites.

Summary

The William Paca House stands as a well-preserved symbol of colonial Maryland’s political and social history. Through its elegant Georgian architecture, historic gardens, and connection to a key founding father, the house offers a vivid window into 18th-century life and the birth of the United States. It remains an essential destination for those interested in American history, architecture, and preservation.