Sure, there are a couple of signs along the road, but nothing particularly notable to indicate that a mere block or two from Ocean Highway sits the Somerset County seat and its pocket-sized downtown.
Maybe that’s a good thing.
Princess Anne is small—delicate, almost—with neighborhood blocks lined in the Federal, Colonial, and Victorian vernaculars and a main street filling up with boutiques; it’s something you’d be tempted to keep all to yourself.
Of course, the countless new-business owners responsible for a recent renaissance along Somerset Avenue, the main strip, would vehemently disagree with this idea. Happily, for them, the town’s recent inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places has helped put Princess Anne on the map.
“The town, with the main street designation, is growing, and we’re learning how to make use of this,” says Linda Alder of the Somerset County Historical Society. “We’re very excited about it.”
It’s precisely this mix of old and new that gives Princess Anne its identity. And you’d never guess that in a place with just a hair more than 3,000 people, there’d be, well, options.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture nut, shopaholic, or city slicker simply in need of some quiet, the town’s community—all seemingly on a first-name basis and oft related through generations—knows hospitality.
“Princess Anne is really unique,” says Cindy Muir, owner of the Salon @ Somerset day spa. “We’re really trying to beautify the downtown and let people know that we are about history, and we are about being friendly and welcoming.”
But while there are options, Princess Anne is, indeed, small. Downtown is just five blocks long.
“Like all small towns, we have small businesses and a lot of historic buildings,” says Mary Murphey, a resident since 1936 and proprietor of the Washington Hotel, a white clapboard Colonial that’s been in business almost since the town’s establishment in 1733.
It’s that longevity—and simplicity—that makes Princess Anne worth a visit. So come for a day, an overnight, or a weekend. But be sure to come hungry. In fact, plan to stop by Peaky’s Restaurant before you even drive into town.
Situated on the corner of Route 13 and Mt. Vernon Road, this longtime local favorite is known for its flapjacks and fried chicken. But if you’re craving caffeine more than carbs, head straight to Allegro Coffee and Tea Salon on Somerset Avenue.
Once satiated, you’re ready to embark on a free cell-phone walking tour put together by the Princess Anne Main Street Partnership. Pick up a brochure at the welcome center and let the soothing voice of local author Jeanne du Nord guide you through 300 years of history.
The highlights of the tour include the Washington Hotel and the Teackle Mansion, a 200-year-old neoclassical brick residence that’s now the centerpiece of the Somerset County Historical Society.
When you’re done hoofing it, refuel at the Petite Fleur Café, where the gourmet-sandwich menu changes weekly (try one with the amazing pesto). The café—which boasts an adjacent home-décor shop—is located in Independence Hall and shares space with the Somerset Herald, along with a number of other shops and boutiques.
Love rummaging for antiques? You’ll appreciate the historical society gift shop’s assortment of historical pieces and novelty items. And if you’ve got a little one in your life (or on the way), a stop at the Barefoot Baby Boutique, owned by former neonatal nurse Martha Ogburn, is a must.
Once you’re all shopped out, you may want to revisit the Teackle Mansion for a full tour. But if you’re more in need of luxury than learning, make a beeline for the cushy Salon @ Somerset for a massage or mani/pedi.
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