BNHA Robert Long House and Colonial Garden

The Robert Long House, built in 1765, is believed to be the oldest surviving urban residence in Baltimore. Robert Long was a merchant and entrepreneur who settled in Fell's Point and assisted the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Originally from the York, Pennsylvania area, it is presumed that he moved to Fell's Point to be closer to commerce. William Fell sold him a parcel of property upon which to build his home. Long’s warehouse was located directly across the street on the waterfront at Ann Street Wharf.

The property was slated for demolition in 1969, but founding members of the Preservation Society fought the city, state, and federal government to keep it standing. The Preservation Society acquired the property from the city in 1975, and although it took ten years, painstakingly researched the interior design and architectural elements and restored the house to its colonial-era appearance to inspire others to purchase historic properties on the waterfront and restore them. The Preservation Society again restored the property after a fire in 1999 and after Hurricane Isabel rampaged through Maryland in 2003.

The colonial garden next door features heirloom plantings, including many herbs grown for medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary use in the 18th century. Today the Robert Long House is a testament to community activism, determination, and courage.

The Robert Long House is open daily for tours. For reservations call 410-675-6750 ext.16

Site summary courtesy of the Preservation Society of Federal Hill and Fell’s Point