Beall-Dawson Historic House Museum in Rockville Maryland
Have you ever wanted to go back in time?
History enthusiasts and architects often immerse themselves in sites and areas that tell a tale to remember. If you could go back in time, you can witness the lifestyles and architecture of that era. You get to see what the original layout was and how sensibilities differ with each passing year.
Well, visiting Beall-Dawson Historic House Museum in Rockville, Maryland, comes close to that.
Here’s everything you need to know about Rockville, Maryland’s prized possession.
Overview
Rockville, Maryland, is home to a historical place that gives you a glimpse of the 19th century. Named after its founder, the Beall-Dawson Historic House Museum is a significant part of our history. Its importance lies in its significance as a comprehensive look into the lifestyle of that age. The Flemish architecture embodies the grandeur, stoicism, and wealth that were common in that era.
Background
The history of this house dates back to 1815. During that time, Rockville, MD, was a small rural town, which was a stark contrast to this Federal-style home. The interesting thing is that the purpose of this family home was to improve the family’s status.
As Montgomery County’s Clerk of the Court, Upton Beall wanted a home that reflected his prominence in the society. That goal was met through its extravagant interiors and statuesque Flemish-bond brick exteriors. He lived there with his wife and lovely daughters, who later on inherited the house.
However, after the death of the last living daughter, the ownership changed hands. Then in 1965, the City of Rockville bought the house and converted it into the Montgomery History’s headquarters. Eight years later, Beall-Dawson was found its place in the National Register of Historic Places.
Present Day
The museum is located at 111 West Montgomery Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850. It functions as the official headquarters of the Montgomery County Historical Society. The organization preserves this home as a time capsule that represents the late 19th century. There are many antiques, relics, and archived documents displayed in this museum.
The property also features the Stonestreet Museum of 19th Century Medicine. The mini-museum comprises a single physician’s room cluttered with medical documents and pharmaceutical tools accessible in the late 19th century.
Tours & Attractions
For many visitors, Beall-Dawson House is nothing but a chance encounter. It allows them to get a sneak peek of family life in that time period. Residents of this area, namely educators, historians, and traditionalists view, it as one of the most prominent establishments of the bygone days.
The guided tours of this house cover five rooms. Including the bedrooms, front hall, drawing room, and the slave’s quarters. Adjacent to the extravagant house is a humble doctor’s office. The practice was Dr. Edward Elisha Stonestreet's office in the old days.
These days it serves as a museum of medical history. The exhibit features period furnishing and medical equipment that reflects the evolution of medicine. Along with this, visitors get access to archival resources that cover the revolution and development of this town. The files are currently preserved in Jane C. Sween Research Library.
In Conclusion
Over the years, the estate went through multiple modifications. The original layout remains the same, and there are still memorabilia and furnishings that match its construction date. These details serve as a snapshot of the norms and rulings of a society long gone.
Want to take a tour of Beall-Dawson Historic House Museum, Rockville, MD?
You can schedule a tour from Tuesday to Sunday (12:00 p.m. to 4 p.m). The fees are as follows: $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, and children aged six and under can enter for free. Plan to take a tour the next time you have your StarBrite Dental appointment.
