Visitors > Gateway to Discovery > A Maritime Environment

From its earliest history until the 1920s, log canoes, merchant sailing ships, workboats, ferries, and steam boats comprised the majority of vessels in these waters. But after local businessmen developed marinas to accommodate pleasure craft, the landscape of the harbor began to change dramatically. Economic pressures priced the watermen out of much of the waterfront at the same time that pollution and overharvesting diminished the bounty of the Bay. With new roads connecting Annapolis to Baltimore and Washington, the focus of this historic city shifted from work to recreation.

The first bridge over Spa Creek, built in 1868, reshaped Eastport’s farming character. Soon, both sides of the creek developed facilities to build, maintain, and promote pleasure boating.

As you walk around the waterfront and look over Spa Creek, out towards the mouth of Severn River and to the Chesapeake Bay beyond, keep in mind those who lived and worked here during the past 350 years.

Now imagine the future of this unique town and those who will build upon this rich legacy. Annapolis and its harbor are certain to undergo change. The Chesapeake Bay will remain as a vital—though fragile—resource for the future. We must share in its stewardship for many generations to come.