Period
1783 – 1784
Maryland State House: State Circle Grounds
Location
Annapolis, Maryland
Notables
National Historic Landmark
HISTORIC LEGACY
The State Circle is a park like setting of the State House, defined by the circular State Circle Street. The only structure other than the State House in State Circle is the Old Treasury Building. The State Circle Grounds have undergone significant changes over time, including the evolution of building structures and alterations to the site’s grading. The current configuration is primarily the result of a major construction effort dating to 1956, when the ground was graded with brick retaining walls and pathways with significant planting of hardwood trees and shrubs. The design inspiration of this work was clearly that of Colonial Williamsburg.
George Washington resigns as Commander-in-Chief
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Significant work was undertaken in The State Circle with the goal of retaining and restoring the 1956 work, with necessary changes to accommodate pragmatic purposes.
REALIZATION
Detailed work within the State Circle included:
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Reconstruction of approximately 25% of the perimeter brick retaining walls
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Several brick walk areas were removed, reconfigured, and reconstructed to accommodate ADA compliance
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Restoration and relocation of outdoor, lighting fixtures and the addition of new facade lighting for the 1772 State House and Annex structures
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Restoration and reconstruction of limestone site staircases
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Landscaping enhancements such as adding new shrubs and planting beds throughout the site while pruning, thinning and adding trees
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A new service entrance path and work area
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New main entrance plazas flanking the ground floor entrance at the Annex portico undercroft
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Updated signage and wayfinding
