Leonardtown Live Cam

A small community in the heart of St. Mary's County

Live Webcam Leonardtown, St. Mary's County, Maryland - United States

History

Leonardtown is a town located in St. Mary's County, Maryland, USA. It is the county seat and has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century.

The town was founded in 1660 by the prominent Maryland planter, Seymour Snowden. Snowden named the town "Leonardtown" in honor of his wife's grandfather, Leonard Calvert, the first governor of Maryland.

During the colonial period, Leonardtown served as a center for trade and commerce, with tobacco being the main crop. The town was also a hub for shipping and received shipments from other parts of the Chesapeake Bay. In 1726, Leonardtown became the county seat of St. Mary's County, which helped to further its growth and development.

During the Revolutionary War, Leonardtown played an important role as a supply center for the Continental Army. The town also served as a refuge for soldiers and residents who were fleeing British forces.

In the 19th century, Leonardtown continued to prosper, with the construction of new buildings and the establishment of schools and churches. The town also became a center for oyster and crab harvesting, with local fishermen bringing their catch to the town's docks.

Today, Leonardtown is a charming town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Visitors can explore the town's historic district, which includes numerous historic homes and buildings, as well as enjoy local shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Top Tourist Attractions

There are several tourist attractions in Leonardtown, Maryland that visitors may find interesting. Here are some of the top attractions:

  • Leonardtown Wharf Park: This waterfront park offers scenic views of the Potomac River and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
  • St. Mary's County Courthouse: Built in 1883, this historic courthouse is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture and is still in use today.
  • Tudor Hall: This historic home was built in the 1700s and was once the residence of Governor Thomas Johnson, one of Maryland's signers of the Declaration of Independence. Today, the house is open for tours and hosts special events.
  • Leonardtown Arts Center: This community arts center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and performances throughout the year, showcasing the work of local artists and musicians.
  • Captain Billy's Crab House: This waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, including the town's famous crabs. Visitors can enjoy their meal while taking in the scenic views of the river.
  • The Pax River Naval Air Museum: This museum is located nearby in Lexington Park and showcases the history of the naval aviation in the Patuxent River area.
  • Sotterley Plantation: Located just outside of Leonardtown, Sotterley Plantation is a National Historic Landmark and offers tours of the 18th-century mansion and grounds. The plantation also hosts a variety of events and educational programs throughout the year.
Climate

Leonardtown, Maryland has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 79°F (26°C), while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 38°F (3°C).

The area receives an average of 43 inches (109 cm) of precipitation per year, with the most rain falling during the summer months. Snowfall is infrequent, with an average of 10 inches (25 cm) of snowfall per year.

Overall, Leonardtown has a mild climate with comfortable temperatures and occasional rainfall throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination to visit at any time of the year.

Geography

The town is situated on a peninsula bounded by Breton Bay to the north, the Potomac River to the south, and the Chesapeake Bay to the east.

The town is located approximately 60 miles (97 km) southeast of Washington D.C. and 70 miles (113 km) south of Baltimore. It covers an area of about 3.5 square miles (9.1 square km) and has a population of around 3,600 people.

The terrain in and around Leonardtown is generally flat, with gently rolling hills and small streams. The area is characterized by forests, farmland, and marshes, and offers beautiful views of the nearby rivers and bays.

Overall, the geography of Leonardtown is defined by its proximity to the water and the natural beauty of the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and scenic drives.