Sandy Point Farm

History: William Evans, a slave of Capt. Thomas Mezick, who owned Sandy Point Farm, enlisted in the 30th Regiment, United States Colored Troops, in March 1864. The 22-year old gained his freedom, and joined 122 other area slaves who had been inspired by a USCT company camped at St. John's College in nearby Annapolis. Evans transferred to the US Navy on April 11, 1864. In 1870, he was listed in the census as an Annapolis-area "sailor." Evans was among many Maryland blacks, slave and free, who fought in the Civil War. As a border state, Maryland continued to sanction slavery during the war until a new state constitution abolished it on November 1, 1864.

More to Explore: Sandy Point Farm is now a State Park, and has a popular swimming beach, boat launch and marina on the Chesapeake Bay. The park offers so much more: bird watching, canoeing, kayaking, crabbing, fishing, hiking, and picnicking are to name a few! With beautiful views of the Chesapeake, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife, Sandy Point is easily one of the best and most unique state parks of Maryland. Also check out the Nature Center and Interpretive Programs, which displays collections of local wildlife and hands-on exhibits that are fun for all ages. The park is just minutes away from downtown Annapolis, with a plethora of shops, restaurants, museums and attractions, including the Maryland State House, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Photo Credits:

1. “African American and white sailors standing along the deck of a ship.”