Upcoming Events

Annual Events

Board & Committee
  Meetings

Camp David, the Presidential Retreat, is located in the Catoctin Mountains of Frederick County, near Thurmont. Camp David became the official Presidential Retreat in 1942, when President Franklin Roosevelt approved the site which he named Shangri-La. Among the important historical events that have occurred here were the 1979 meetings that resulted in the Camp David Accords.

Listed below are some of the annual events that the Historical Society of Frederick County hosts and/or participates in throughout the year. For a complete list of events, please visit our calendar page. Events are subject to change.

Treasured Heirloom Event

Each year people gather up their family keepsakes, cherished collectibles, and mysterious yard sale finds and come out for the Historical Society’s annual Treasured Heirloom Event. Now more than a decade old, the annual event is the region’s biggest and best antiques and collectibles evaluation event. Experts are on hand to offer information and a verbal estimation of value of objects including folk art, fine art, furniture, tools, jewelry, militaria, quilts, paper items, photographs, toys, clocks, general antiques, and more. Check the calendar for more information and a link to the Treasured Heirloom Event page. What's in YOUR attic?

Swing in the Garden

The Swing in the Garden event is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts, cash bar, and great fun in the Historical Society’s beautiful Heritage Garden. Past themes include the 1920s, 1940s, and 1950s. Big Band Era fashions welcome but not required. The annual fundraiser is usually held in late July with advance tickets going on sale in mid-June. Check the summer calendar for more details.

Old Time Ice Cream Social

The Historical Society’s annual Ice Cream Social in August has become a popular summer tradition. It is our way of saying thanks to the community for its support throughout the year. Root beer floats, Dusty Road sundaes, and other sweet treats are served up in the Heritage Garden by the Historical Society’s own “soda jerks.” Music, special exhibits, and crafts and activities for children also are offered. The event is absolutely free and all are invited to attend! Check the August calendar for date and time.

Museums by Candlelight

The Historical Society’s Museum of Frederick County History and Roger B. Taney House participate in the annual Museums by Candlelight event sponsored by the Frederick Historic Sites Consortium. The themes change each year, and past themes include Holidays by Candlelight, Christmas in the 20th Century, Holiday Customs from Around the World, and 19th Century Christmas. The free event is held in mid-December. Check the fall calendar for date and current theme.

Museum Programs

The Museum of Frederick County History and Roger B. Taney House offer a number of activities in addition to guided tours and changing exhibitions, including: preservation workshops, historic downtown Frederick walking tours, garden talks, docent training, history symposia, hands-on workshops, and living history demonstrations.

Research Center Programs

The Frederick County Archives & Research Center offers several educational opportunities throughout the year including open house days, family history research seminars and symposia, genealogy classes, and more.

Student & Educator Programs

The Historical Society is committed to its partnership with local schools and to serving students in the community. Programs for students and teachers include: Second Grade Walking Tour of Downtown Frederick, "Into a New Era" High School Walking Tour, annual essay, poster, and art contests, summer history camp, preschool storytimes, and more.

Other Activities

The Historical Society also offers many other fun, educational activities throughout the year, including an annual lecture series, bus trip to various historical sites, luncheons, member events, volunteer get-togethers, and more.