Historic Hancock’s Resolution is considered the oldest structure in Maryland north of the Severn River. It was built in 1785 and was the home and farm of Stephen Hancock. Our Master Gardeners sustain and maintain the yard and kitchen gardens of this historic property and educate adults and children about farming practices circa 1785-1840’s. The dooryard garden and fenced kitchen garden showcase the utilitarian aspect of these small plots during colonial times. The gardens would have been tended by the women and children of the house for food preparation, medicinal use, clothing dyes, and other household uses. Heirloom variety vegetables and herbs are prominent garden features.
In the spring of 2015 Master Gardeners began establishing a lavender field. Lavender is much loved for its fragrance and beauty. Lavender thrives in poor soil, it is not disturbed by the deer and the farm has historic receipts that it was grown and taken to market. Since then, two additional rows have been planted and Hancock’s Resolution hosts a Lavender Appreciation Day each year in June.
Master Gardener volunteer educators help plant, prune, weed, water, and answer questions that park visitors ask on any Sunday from 1:00-4:00, April through October. Some Sundays have extended hours to accommodate festivals, reenactments, and other farm-related demonstrations. There are also occasions when volunteers provide private tours for gardens clubs or for school and scout groups. Information about special programs, photos, and updates may be found on the Hancock’s Resolution web site or on their Facebook page. Hancock’s Resolution is located at 2795 Bayside Beach Road, on Anne Arundel County’s Bodkin Peninsula, in Pasadena, MD.