Annapolis

We have spent 2 days here in Annapolis and will depart for the Chester River tomorrow.  Trying to predict the spring time weather has been a challenge.  The few nice sunny days we have had provide wonderful moderate temperatures with low humidity and plenty of chances to sail or sight see.  Spring for the commercial fishermen brings newly painted crab trap bouys and fresh paint on boats.  We will send some photos of the commercial boats from time to  time when we get close enough for good shots.  The oyster season is winding down and the crabbing season is starting up in the northern bay.  The boats are truely unique.  Annapolis has a large well kept historic waterfront district.  We are fortunate to be at a mooring right in front of the historic district and a very short dinghy ride to restaurants, shops and historic buildings.  Annapolis considers itself the yachting capital of the east coast and you can find every size and type of boat imaginable.  For evening entertainment before dinner we sit on our boat and watch the action as small racing prams, class racers and large cruisers go by like so many butterflies with billowing sails.  Maryland was first settled at St. Marys (a place we will visit in a few weeks) as a business venture not as a place for those to flee religious persecution like more northern colonies.    The Maryland State House (photo) was built in the 1770's and has been the continual seat of Maryland government since pre-Revolutionary War times.  At the end of the Revolutionary War, George Washington resigned his commission as general in this building and thus was positioned to become the first President of the new republic.   The Naval Academy is located here.  Each evening you see midshipmen and women in dress whites walking in town.  It makes for a stirring sight to think of all the sailors who have passed through these streets only to go on to serve our nation in war and peace.  As you walk the campus you see memorials to many of those who served and achieved greatness.  

The photos are:

Our view of the waterfront

Chapel on the Naval Academy campus

Maryland State House

3 harbor sailing scenes in the late afternoon

Ship in Delegren Hall on the Naval Academy campus

Uninvited guests on our dinghy each evening