Up the Chester River to Chestertown

Brio took advantage of a fair northwest wind to travel east up the Chester River to Chestertown. This village is located on the Chester River and it was established in 1706 as the local seat of government of Great Britain. It served as the Royal Port of Entry and was the export center for local agricultural products (initially tobacco, then wheat) and seafood. In the 1800s, steamboats plied the River to provide for trade with the rest of the country. Today, the town thrives on public spirit, an active municipal government and nearby Washington College.

Washington College's crew makes use of the Chester River for its rowing team. The College was established in 1782 and General George Washington was approached to use his name and ask him to serve on the Board. He gave the College fifty guineas and five years of service before becoming the nation's first President.

There is a lovely boardwalk along the River's edge, leading from the municipal marina to the rest of the town's waterfront.

Along the way, there is a bronze statue of Lucy, the town's famous adopted pet goose.

The Kent County Visitors Center has printed a thorough Tour of Historic Chestertown which guides the visitor through the town. It highlights the many historic buildings that grace the town. Many of these are now owned and maintained by Washington College.

This is the Hynson-Ringgold House, built in 1735. The Washington College presidents have lived here since 1944.

There are many older wooden structures as well throughout the town. These are evidence of how the initial structures are added upon and expanded as generations pass and wealth is built.

The masonry in these older brick buildings is most impressive.

In addition to these beautiful and well-preserved structures, the town is blessed with many small shops and restaurants. The Visitors' Center brochure advertises a series of celebrations extending throughout the year, including a Tea Party Celebration recognizing that the local provencials followed Sam Adams and crew and dumped tea from English ships in 1774.

It was a pleasure to walk through the town. People were invariably friendly and had a ready smile. The sidewalks were all inviting and promoted curiosity, such as this tree-shrouded sidewalk.

Brio tips her hat to the tremendous effort involved in preserving and maintaining Chestertown. It remains a priceless reminder of the history of the 18th Century until today.

Cheers,

Brio