Yuletide with the Pacas - Historic Annapolis - 6 December 2025

      On 6 December, the Annapolis Living Historians (ALH) led a Christmas program at Historic Annapolis in the Paca House and Gardens.  It was 1775, so the resolutions that had been announced in the Maryland Gazette on November 3, 1774 were in effect, which essentially meant no fun. 

 

 

 

 

     We made every effort to continue to talk to the Christmas traditions, food and drink prepared in what could still be had and purchased.  The men were talking about the recent declaration by the Association of Freemen as well as what the battles taking place in the North, and what it will mean for their families in Annapolis.  The thought is that Maryland endorses reunion with Britain as long as they can obtain redress of American grievances - all the while trying to enjoy Mr. Paca’s hospitality and make the best of the Christmas season to Twelfth Night.

 

All jewelry that I am wearing is from my shop, pet n lair given to me made in vintage Waverly fabric, shoes by Anacronicos, and petticoat by Sycamore Spring Clothier

Photo by the ALH

 

 

Backgammon Table set up in the Parlor - Photo by Tim Shanahan on behalf of Historic Annapolis

 

Mrs. Calvert, Mrs. Ogle, Mrs. Carroll of Carrollton, and Mrs. Chase in the Parlor - Photo by Tim Shanahan on behalf of Historic Annapolis

 

 

Mrs. Lloyd and Mrs. Johnson waiting on dinner while sitting in the Dining Room - Photo by the ALH

 

 

Mrs. Carroll, Mrs. Ogle, and Mrs. Lloyd waiting on for the festivities to begin

Photo by the ALH

 

 

 Mr. Hall, Mrs. Carroll (Barrister) and Ms. Paca ready dinner - Photo by the ALH

 

 

 Back of my Pet n Lair and hair - Photo by the ALH

 

Mrs. Ogle, Mrs. Carroll (Barrister), Mrs. Lloyd and Mrs. Carroll of Carrollton dishing the latest tea - Photo by the ALH

  

 

 

Mr. Paca and his "trusted steward," Denby.  Photo by the ALH 

 

 

Sarah plating the latest pie to take upstairs - Photo by Tim Shanahan on behalf of Historic Annapolis 

 

 

Affey grating cinnamon into the chocolate pot - Photo by Tim Shanahan on behalf of Historic Annapolis  

 

Mourning and Memory: Spirits of the Paca House in Historic Annapolis, 19 October 2025

Last year when Historic Annapolis asked about a mourning program, I put on my thinking cap and collaborated with the Annapolis Living Historians (ALH) on it. 

Out of our discussions came "Mourning and Memory: Spirits of the Paca House." Visitors stepped back in time as the ALH brought the Paca House to life with stories of loss, remembrance, and tradition. Those who came on the tour spent some time in an immersive guided tour where they traveled through different moments in the life of William Paca, and met some of the people who shaped his world. We were able to show researched vignettes on how early Americans mourned—and remembered.

 

 

 

 

 

We were able to research and represent the years 1766, 1774, 1775, and 1783 in four rooms of the house. We hope that this program will continue next year, and that each tour will be sold out! There was great interest in the program and each tour went through for the 2 hour event. 

 

George Washington Mount Vernon Market Fair 2025

      I must apologize again for getting this article out a couple of months after this event.  The market fair is always a lot of fun, even if it is also work.  Working for the horses, dressing up, and having a fun experience with friends who take time to help me is very appreciated!  This year was no different.  Thank you as well to all who visited my shop and purchased - it all goes back into the business or to my horses.  

  

     We had a lot of fun this year, and even did another silly vignette that was thought of on Saturday morning!  Many will recognize it from growing up watching Charlies Angels!

  

Krista near the lower gardens

 

 

Krista, Me, and Jen 

 

 

Down near the Old Tomb 

 

Debuted my hand painted stockings at this event!

 

"Hold on to your butts."  "Quiet, all of you! They're approaching the Tyrannosaur paddock."  ~ Jurassic Park

 

Liz wearing 1790's with her comfy modern sandals!

 

Sage from Sage & Folly visiting the shop (Robin in what we call the drive-thru window)

Liz, Krista, Me, Gema, and Kerry - cannot do this without them!

Watch Restock and Instructions

      In order to save a bit of money, I'm not adding the usual insert into the packages for those purchasing my watches.  I have found that most people tuck it away and forget where it is, or they accidentally throw it away.  So this post is here to provide them to you.  They are also in the listings, and I can send them to you via email or a convo on Etsy.

 

 

 

The 4th of July at the Paca House and Gardens, Historic Annapolis - 1776/2025

      This year the Annapolis Living Historians were immersed in 1776 with Mr. William Paca returning from Philadelphia to tell the people of Annapolis what took place there.  This year we had several visitors to the house, and Mr. Paca was able to talk to the events leading up to their agreeing to sign a declaration against King George III.  William Paca was a signer of that document.  Our group is honored to be at this house portraying family, friends, and associates.

 

     Photos by Elizabeth Bersche on behalf of the Annapolis Living Historians.
 

Revolutionary War Weekend at George Washington's Mount Vernon - May 2025

      The Revolutionary War Weekend at George Washington's Mount Vernon is the first weekend in May (just one week after the Fort Frederick Market Fair) each year.  It is a very busy time for me and the shop!  This year was no different.

      Mount Vernon is one of my favorite places to be.  I do not live that far, so am able to go home each evening.  It is always nice to be home.  In May, we usually have some rain, so I usually dress in cotton or linens. 

     This year, I had a twin from Samson Historical!  I was honored to be dressed like her.  I am always grateful for those who came to help me set up, sell, and tear down.  I cannot do it without them, and we always have a great time.  There are events that turn hot, it can rain, we can have strong winds, or it can be freezing cold as well.  Braving the elements to help me and my horses is never taken for granted.  My set up is always evolving to make it easier for setup/tear down but also to help my customers find exactly what they need easily.