Smallwood’s Retreat

Tours & Programs

Guided tours of General Smallwood’s Retreat House, along with colonial cooking demonstrations, are offered by the Friends of Smallwood volunteers. Tour dates vary throughout the season—please contact the Friends group for current availability. A special Colonial Christmas Open House is typically held in early December.

📧 [email protected]

About the Retreat

Smallwood’s Retreat House is a restored 18th-century tidewater plantation featuring a detached kitchen. Unlike many wealthy planters of his time who lived in large Georgian mansions, General Smallwood chose a smaller, more practical home that suited his bachelor lifestyle.

After his death, the Retreat fell into disrepair until 1958, when a group of dedicated Southern Maryland residents completed a 20-year restoration effort to preserve the historic structure.

Historic Grounds

The outbuildings surrounding the house represent structures known or believed to have existed on the property, including features such as a pumphouse and outhouse. These elements help illustrate daily life on an 18th-century plantation.