All Events
Date with History: The United States Colored Troops from Queen Anne's County
The United States Colored Troops (USCT) are the free enslaved African Americans who fought for the Union Army during the Civil War. By the end of the war, USCT represented almost 10% of the Union Army. This presentation will focus on the USCT from Queen Anne’s County. These individuals fought valiantly at the Battle of the Crater and Fort Gilmer, among other battles. Their contributions helped win the war, preserve the Union, and end slavery. And yet, for too long, their contributions have been forgotten or ignored. In this discussion, we will explore the remarkable accomplishments of the 7th, 19th, and 39th regiments of the USCT and meet some of the more than 435 USCT veterans who came from Queen Anne’s County.
Chris Pupke is a former President of the Queen Anne’s County Historical Society and serves as a member of the Advisory Board at the Kennard African American Heritage and Cultural Center, where he offers lectures on African American history in Queen Anne’s County through the Institute for Adult Learning. He has been researching the United States Colored Troops from Queen Anne’s County for more than a decade and is helping to establish a memorial in their honor at Kennard. Mr. Pupke is also the Executive Director of the Biophilia Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving biodiversity.
This program is presented by the Talbot Historical Society in partnership with the Talbot County Free Library and will take place at the Talbot County Free Library, located at 100 W. Dover Street, Easton, MD 21601. The lecture will be held on February 4, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. The lecture is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested.
For questions or to make a reservation, please call 410-822-0773 or email kaylaw@talbothistory.org.
Celebrate America 250: Discover Your Patriot Ancestors
Every family has a story—come learn how to find yours! This introductory genealogy class will teach you how to research your ancestors and obtain copies of the documents needed to join a lineage society like the SAR or DAR so you can experience a deeper connection to your patriot ancestors when you celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of America.
Water's Edge Museum: Gaurdians of the Coast
On February 7, The Water’s Edge Museum invites the public to Guardians of the Coast, a special day of programming exploring Black maritime history, environmental stewardship, and community legacy. The event highlights the role of Black families in shaping America’s coastal and maritime heritage while encouraging reflection on protecting the people, places, and cultures of the Chesapeake and beyond.
The program features guest speaker Joan Collins, who will share the powerful story of Keeper Richard Etheridge and the all-Black crew of the Pea Island Lifesaving Station. In partnership with the Pea Island Preservation Society, a mini-exhibit honoring these Guardians of the Coast will be on view, along with recognition of 400 years of maritime service from one Black family.
The day includes museum tours, performances, activities, food, and special presentations.
Learn more and RSVP on The Water’s Edge Museum website →
About Water’s Edge Museum
The Water’s Edge Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history, culture, and environmental legacy of Black communities connected to the Chesapeake Bay and the African Diaspora. Through exhibitions, education, and community programming, the museum serves as a space for reflection, learning, and dialogue around history, environmental justice, and cultural resilience.
208th Birthday of Frederick Douglass Valentines Day Gala
Join community leaders, elected officials, scholars, and members of the African Diaspora for a historic evening celebrating the 208th birthday of Frederick Douglass and the 100th anniversary of Negro History Week, the foundation of Black History Month.
This elegant black-tie gala will also mark the official launch of the Frederick Douglass Society of African American History, Culture & Affairs, an organization dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy and teachings of Frederick Douglass for future generations.
Learn more: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 2026 - FD On the Hill
Presented by the Bailey-Groce Family Foundation, Inc. and Operation Frederick Douglass on the Hill.
About the Frederick Douglass Society
The Frederick Douglass Society of African American History, Culture & Affairs, Inc. is committed to advancing research, education, civic engagement, youth mentorship, leadership development, and cultural preservation centered on the legacy of Frederick Douglass and African American history.
Storytelling @ The IVY
Inspired by The Moth Radio Hour, Storytelling @ The IVY features true, personal stories shared live—without scripts or notes. The event brings together everyday voices and experienced storytellers to explore universal themes of life, love, loss, resilience, and courage.
Native American Heritage and Artifact Day
Discover the Eastern Shore’s Indigenous heritage at Native American Heritage Day — a one-day showcase of artifacts, stories, and demonstrations celebrating Native history and culture at the Waterfowl Festival Building on February 21, 2026.
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Born enslaved, Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins became a Civil War soldier, community builder, and founder of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day celebration. This performance brings his journey from bondage to leadership in Talbot County to life through powerful storytelling with a one man performance by actor Darius Wallace.
Garden Club: Community Gardens
Join author and garden educator Teresa as she explores how community gardens can strengthen neighborhoods by transforming green spaces into welcoming places for connection, learning, and shared stewardship. Drawing on her experience with the Fiesta Place Community Garden, this program invites attendees to reimagine the role of community gardens in building stronger, more connected communities.
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Born enslaved, Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins became a Civil War soldier, community builder, and founder of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day celebration. This performance brings his journey from bondage to leadership in Talbot County to life through powerful storytelling with a one man performance by actor Darius Wallace.
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Born enslaved, Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins became a Civil War soldier, community builder, and founder of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day celebration. This performance brings his journey from bondage to leadership in Talbot County to life through powerful storytelling with a one man performance by actor Darius Wallace.
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Born enslaved, Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins became a Civil War soldier, community builder, and founder of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day celebration. This performance brings his journey from bondage to leadership in Talbot County to life through powerful storytelling with a one man performance by actor Darius Wallace.
Bear Me Into Freedom: The Talbot County of Frederick Douglass
The Bear Me Into Freedom: The Talbot County of Frederick Douglass exhibit explores how Frederick Douglass’ early life in Talbot County, Maryland, shaped his journey to become a prominent abolitionist, writer, and orator. The exhibition is organized around a series of waypoints that guide visitors through key moments and locations from his life, from birth to his later returns as a free man, and how the landscape shaped these experiences.
Maryland History Day Regional Contest
For middle and high school students who participate, Maryland History Day sparks critical thinking, and helps develop skills in research and analysis, writing, and public speaking.
Garden Club: "John Bartram Lives"
Kirk Brown will present a first person historical presentation on the life of John Bartram, America’s first and foremost horticulturist and plant collector. Close friends with Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington, he is credited with introducing more than 200 of America’s native plants to international trade. His humor, passion and achievements will entertain, inspire and awe as he shares hope for the future of the earth and people who inhabit it
National Civics Bee Regional Contest
Students who participate in the National Civics Bee® gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectfully and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions. As they compete for prizes, students strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
Date with History: Thy Will Be Done: George Washington’s Legacy of Slavery and the Fight for American Memory
Thy Will Be Done: George Washington's Legacy of Slavery and the Fight for American Memory
Talbot Day: Community Celebration
Mark your calendar for Sunday, April 26, 2026 — enjoy the Talbot Day Community Celebration, where we will honor the 2026 Citizen and Service Award Winners and highlight all the 250 related activities coming to Talbot in 2026.
Talbot250: DC Bus Trip
We're going to DC this May! We are partnering with the Talbot 250 Commission to host a bus trip to our nations capital. There are several exhibits being hosted at the Smithsonian Museums to celebrate our nations 250th birthday. Enjoy the mall on a spring day and learn a bit more about United States History.
Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage - Talbot County Tour
The Next Talbot County – Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage is Scheduled for May 2026.
Flag Day in St.Michaels
Join the St. Michaels community for a Flag Day celebration featuring a patriotic boat parade through the harbor and additional activities to honor the Stars and Stripes. Full event details will be released soon.
Date with History: When Claiborne Bridged the Chesapeake
Discover Claiborne’s long-forgotten role as a major Chesapeake Bay transportation hub, linking Maryland’s Eastern and Western Shores by steamer, rail, and later car ferry. Drawing on decades of research, this talk places Claiborne’s story within larger regional changes—from the Civil War to the Cold War—exploring how technology, politics, railroads, and industry shaped travel and commerce across the Bay. Told through the lens of this small village, the story reveals moments of ambition, disruption, resilience, and lasting legacy still visible today.
Special Screening and Discussion of "The American Revolution"
Join the Talbot250 Commission and friends as we officially kick off Talbot County’s 365th anniversary and the nation’s Semiquincentennial year with a special program at the Avalon Theatre featuring The American Revolution, a new documentary series directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, and written by Geoffrey Ward.
This one-hour event includes a 31-minute screening of selected moments from the six-part series that highlight the “Spirit of Service”, the courage, sacrifice, and civic duty that united ordinary people in the fight for independence. Following the film, Craig Fuller will lead a panel discussion exploring how the spirit of service that shaped America’s founding continues to define Talbot County’s story today.
To learn more about the full documentary series, visit pbs.org/americanrevolution.
Presented by Talbot250 Commission with financial support from Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Stories of the Chesapeake Heritage Area. In partnership with the Avalon Foundation, Talbot County Free Library, and The Talbot Spy. Screening support by provided by Maryland Public Television.
Heritage in Focus: At the Waterfowl Festival
Inside the Easton Visitors Center, Waterfowl Festival attendees can also explore “Heritage in Focus”, a special exhibit presented in partnership with Maryland 250, Dorchester Tourism, Talbot County Department of Tourism, Stories of the Chesapeake Heritage Area, and Talbot 250. The interactive display honors the stories, traditions, and connections that define the Chesapeake Bay region, inviting guests to celebrate the past while imagining the future of heritage preservation.
2025 Waterfowl Festival
Celebrate Talbot County’s rich heritage of art, culture, and conservation at the 54th annual Waterfowl Festival! This beloved Eastern Shore tradition showcases the best of our region through world-class wildlife art, decoy carving, sporting exhibits, dog demonstrations, and local food and drink—all set against the charming backdrop of historic Easton.
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Through Uncle Nace’s eyes, the Talbot Historical Society and the descendants of Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins, in conjunction with professional actor Darius Wallace, will bring Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins to life to portray his journeys from the fields of slavery to the drums of war, to his triumphant creation of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day Celebration in 1867 - which continues to this day
Uncle Nace: The Day Freedom Came
Through Uncle Nace’s eyes, the Talbot Historical Society and the descendants of Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins, in conjunction with professional actor Darius Wallace, will bring Nathaniel “Uncle Nace” Hopkins to life to portray his journeys from the fields of slavery to the drums of war, to his triumphant creation of Maryland’s first Emancipation Day Celebration in 1867 - which continues to this day
Nace's Day
Nace’s Day is an annual celebration honoring the life and legacy of Nace Hopkins, a formerly enslaved man who became a pillar of faith and community in Talbot County, Maryland. Held on the first weekend of November, this event is hosted by Scott’s United Methodist Church each year.
Divided Loyalties: The Tilghman Family and the American Revolution
Join Dr. Richard Bell, Professor of History at the University of Maryland, for a compelling look at Colonel Tench Tilghman—George Washington’s trusted aide—and his family’s struggle with divided loyalties during the Revolution.
Explore how personal relationships, national conflict, and the cost of independence shaped one Maryland family's legacy—and what it can teach us today about unity and division in America.
The War of 1812 in the Chesapeake
Get ready to dive deep into the historical drama of The War of 1812 in the Chesapeake - it's going to be a riveting experience!
Bus Trip: Museum of the American Revolution
Join the members of the General Perry Benson Chapter of the DAR on a field trip to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia on Tuesday October 21, 2025.
The museum shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality and self-government..
Colonel Tench Tilghman Week
Colonel Tench Tilghman was born in Talbot County in 1744 and served as General George Washington’s Aide-De-Camp and personal secretary for seven years from 1776-1783. On October 19, 1781, Tilghman was entrusted to carry the official word of Lord Cornwall’s surrender in Yorktown, Virginia to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
One Maryland One Book Author Talk: KIN: Rooted in Hope
Join us on Tuesday, October 7 at 6:00 p.m. at the Todd Performing Arts Center, Chesapeake College for an evening with the authors of Kin: Rooted in Hope
Oxford Museum Exhibit: Oxford Salutes Its Veterans
For 250 years, Oxford residents have answered the call to serve in times of war and peace. Oxford Salutes Its Veterans honors their courage and contributions through a special exhibition at the Oxford Museum, on view from October 4 through Veterans Day, November 11.
A reception will follow the Veterans Day Ceremony in Oxford Town Park on November 11 at 11 AM, offering visitors the opportunity to view the exhibit and pay tribute to local heroes.
Learn more: Current Exhibit – The Oxford Museum
About The Oxford Museum
Founded in 1964, the Oxford Museum preserves more than 325 years of local history through artifacts that tell the story of Oxford’s people and their way of life. Its exhibits feature items from Native American tools to 19th-century pottery, photographs, documents, and maritime treasures—many generously shared by local families. Today, the museum serves as a destination for visitors, researchers, and students seeking to explore the town’s rich heritage.
Frederick Douglass Day
To honor Frederick Douglass here in his birthplace, Talbot County, Maryland, where his experiences helped form his character, intellect and determination. The event is held the 4th Saturday in September of each year.
1st Annual Constitution Bowl
The Mid Shore Constitution Alliance will host the inaugural U.S. Constitution Scholastic Competition on Saturday, September 20 9:30 am - 12:30 pm at the Talbot County Free Library. The event is a fast-paced, engaging academic competition designed to inspire a love for civics and history, modeled after the popular “It’s Academic” bowl format.
The competition is part of several events the Constitution Alliance will be hosting during Constitution Week, September 14-20. Constitution & Citizenship Day itself falls on September 17. The events are especially meaningful this year as we celebrate the 249th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Oxford Community Center: Constitution Day Lecture
Wednesday September 17th 5:30-7:00 OCC is pleased to present a program for the Nation’s annual Constitution Day and Citizenship Day that celebrates the signing of the Constitution in 1787 on September 17th. The program will address judicial independence and our constitutional system of government.
Constitution Day
SAVE THE DATE Mid-Shore Constitution Alliance and their partners are bringing back Constitution Day with special speakers: Thomas Jefferson, Colonel Tench Tilghman, and Frederick Douglass.
Constitution Week
Constitution Week is an American observance to commemorate the 1787 adoption of the United States Constitution1. It runs annually from September 17 through September 23. Constitution Day in 2025 falls on Wednesday, September 17th.
Hispanic Heritage Month Community Festival 2025
Join the celebration of culture, community, and history at the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Month Community Festival! Held in the heart of Easton, this vibrant event brings together families, neighbors, and visitors to honor the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to Talbot County and beyond.
33rd Annual Native American Festival by the Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians
Join us in honoring centuries of Eastern Shore history and the enduring heritage of the Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians at the 33rd Annual Native American Festival in Vienna, Maryland.
Maryland Public Television Presents: Becoming Frederick Douglass
Join us for a free community screening of Becoming Frederick Douglass, the inspiring Maryland Public Television documentary that explores the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential voices for freedom.
A Date with History: Frederick Douglass Speaks on Emancipation & Reconstruction
Join Historian, Nathan M. Richardson, for an amazing first person interpretation of Frederick Douglass.
Water’s Edge Arts Contest: Honoring Historical Black Figures
The Water’s Edge Arts Contest invites students to celebrate the rich legacy of Historical Black Figures through creative expression. Participants can choose up to three figures from a curated list of inspiring individuals to honor and immortalize in their chosen medium—whether visual art, poetry, or other forms. This is a unique opportunity to reflect on the contributions and stories that have shaped our shared history.
CBMM: Watermen's Appreciation Day
Get ready to experience the vibrant spirit of the Eastern Shore at Watermen’s Appreciation Day, hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum on Sunday, Aug. 10, from 10am-4pm.
Trappe Volunteer Fire Co. Annual Fair
Get ready for family fun at the Trappe Volunteer Fire Company Annual Fair! This beloved community event offers something for everyone:
Fire truck rides and hay rides
Games and prizes for all ages
A cake booth and delicious food
A silent auction with great items to bid on
Don’t miss the parade on Saturday at 6:00 p.m., followed by live music from Shelley Abbott to keep the celebration going into the evening.
Come out to support your local volunteers, enjoy good company, and make lasting memories. All proceeds benefit the Trappe Volunteer Fire Company’s mission of serving and protecting our community.
Celebrate 100 Years of Service of the Tilghman Island Volunteer Fire Company
Celebrate 100 Years of Service
The Tilghman Island Volunteer Fire Company is proud to mark a century of providing dedicated volunteer fire services to Tilghman Island and the surrounding communities. Come out and join them in celebrating this milestone with live music, games, food, a parade, and friendly firefighter competitions.
Saturday, July 19
Festivities begin at 10 a.m.
Parade at 1 p.m.
The “Midnight Alarm” contest will follow the parade.
Bring your family and friends to help honor 100 years of community spirit and service!
52nd Tuckahoe Steam & Gas Show
Step back in time at the 52nd Annual Tuckahoe Steam & Gas Show, July 10th-13th! Witness powerful steam engines, admire antique tractors and vintage cars, and hear the roar of antique gas engines as you enjoy delicious treats and live music.
2025 Talbot County Fair
The Talbot County Fair is held every year during the second week in July. It is open to the public. Lots of Fun, Food, Entertainment and More!!
Public Reading – “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”
Join community members in a collective reading of Frederick Douglass’s powerful 1852 speech, delivered on the same date more than 170 years ago. This annual event invites reflection on the meaning of independence through the lens of one of America’s most important voices for freedom and justice.
Hosted by the Frederick Douglass Honor Society.
Juneteenth
The Academy Art Museum presents it's annual Juneteenth celebration featuring an outdoor concert with exceptional musical talent from the region, local fashion, art exhibitions, a hands-on art project for families, with delicious food vendors as well as merchant vendors. This event is presented in partnership with BAAM, the Frederick Douglass Honor Society, and the Talbot County Free Library.