Mark Your Calendars - Great Things to Come!

2ND SATURDAY SERIES
Advance reservations only. $15 per person.
Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.
Walking required.

“BACKSTAIRS/UPSTAIRS”

Saturday, January 12, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Go behind the scenes at Sotterley. Become an insider and enter places you won’t see on a regular tour. See the kitchen and travel up the back staircase to view private chambers and undisplayed collections. Learn what it takes to operate and support a museum. Limited to 16 people per tour.

“SLAVERY, RESISTANCE and FREEDOM”

Saturday, February 9, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Slavery was a part of Sotterley’s history from the turn of the 18th century and lasted for over 160 years. Hear the voices and visit the places where African Americans lived and labored. Limited to 20 people per tour. Ages 13 & up.

“FROM THE GROUND UP”

Saturday, March 9, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

From the basement to the attic of Sotterley’s 1703 Plantation House there are numerous nooks and crannies rarely seen by most people. Presented by Sotterley’s Restoration Manager, this exclusive tour will reveal how the structure was built and what the various spaces tell us about the over 300 year history. Limited to 16 people per tour.

“A TASTE of HISTORY:

HOW AFRICAN AMERICAN FOODS

INFLUENCED OUR MODERN CUISINE

Saturday, April 13, 2013

10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

What did people eat during the 1700s? Come learn about the foods that were transported on slave ships during the 18th century and how they influenced not only colonial dishes but our modern day regional foods. Lecture and demonstration to be presented by the Director of Education of Historic London Town and Gardens. Limited to 60 people per session.

“WOMEN of SOTTERLEY”

Saturday, May 11, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Discover the women of Sotterley. Whether it was the mistress of the house, the farm manager’s wife, the heiress, or the enslaved servants, the women of Sotterley were fascinating people who lived extraordinary lives. Limited to 20 people per tour.

__________________________________________________________

SPRING BREAK at SOTTERLEY!

March 25 ~ 29, 2013

10:30 a.m. ~ 4:00 p.m.

Family Friendly House Tours, Audio Grounds tours, Special Children and Family interactive presentations. Please visit our website for details: www.sotterley.org.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER

April 5, 2013

6:00 p.m.

A special night to say thank you. Invitation only. For more info on volunteer opportunities: coordinator@sotterley.org.

PLANT SALE & FREE PLANT EXCHANGE

Plant Sale:

April 27, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. ~ 2:00 p.m.

April 28, 2013 from Noon ~ 3:00 p.m.

Free Plant Exchange:

April 27, 2013 9:00 a.m. ~ until the plants run out.

Buy or exchange your way to a beautiful garden!

The nurturing volunteers of the Sotterley Garden Guild are responsible for the care and maintenance of Sotterley’s exquisite Colonial Revival Garden. All proceeds will support the upkeep of Sotterley’s gardens and grounds. The Free Plant Exchange gives gardeners the opportunity to bring their plants and exchange for other annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, shrubs, trees, bulbs and seeds!

The WAR of 1812: LIVING HISTORY EVENT

Saturday, May 25, 2013

10:00, 11:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

Admission

Advance Reservations Required

“The Choice - Risking Your Life for Freedom” - Sotterley Plantation presents a living history event written by Dale Jones. This interactive experience will take the audience on a journey from the perspective of the enslaved at Sotterley during that summer of 1814.
The story of Sotterley Plantation during the War of 1812 is a human story. There were no great skirmishes, naval battles or major monuments burning. The British used an even greater weapon: they offered freedom to slaves. Sotterley and other plantations in the region suffered great financial loss, but the long term impact was the loss of their labor force. Sotterley’s story is one of decision, struggle, resistance and courage of enslaved African-Americans who saw an opportunity, faced the unknown, and took their chances to gain their freedom. For additional details: www.sotterley.org.

GALA in the GARDEN

Saturday, June 15, 2013 5:30 p.m.

VIPs Pre-Gala Reception on the Portico

6:30 p.m. Gala in the Garden

Fresh river breezes, cool libations, delectable morsels, palate pleasers, fabulous live and silent auction items, special guests, and amazing music in the Colonial Revival Garden. Advance reservations required. Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION CONCERT

Sunday, June 30, 2013

1:00 p.m. ~ 4:00 p.m.

Come and enjoy a wonderful afternoon of music on the Portico, while taking in the breathtaking view of the Patuxent River! Listen to the patriotic musical renditions of the Chesapeake Orchestra Brass Quintet led by Maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag of St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Brown Bag and Silent Auctions, Food and Drink for Purchase. Admission $10 per car. Free for Members and those with a current Military ID.

“CAMP SKIPPING STONE”

SUMMER MINI CAMPS

at SOTTERLEY PLANTATION

How Kids Used to Play

July 15 - 17, 2013 Grades 3 - 5

July 22 - 24, 2013 Grades 6 - 8

July 29 - 31, 2013 Grades 3 - 5

Children learn and play the old-fashioned way, with self-direction, imagination, creativity, and time flexibility. Activities are based on children’s choices and interests, development of new skills, and site conditions, using a small group and very hands-on format. Groups are limited to 25 students. Tuition: $95. Tuition for children of Sotterley Members: $85. Registration forms available online: www.sotterley.org.

SOTTERLEY BARN BASH!

Saturday, August 24, 2013

5:00 p.m. gates open

6:00 p.m. music begins

Join us for a fun family-friendly night of live music and dancing featuring “Country Memories.” The goal of this 10 year old So. Maryland band, with a mighty following, is to bring back all of your country memories, featuring the traditional sound of the old country classics. Admission at the gate.

RIVERSIDE WINEFEST at SOTTERLEY

October 5 & 6, 2013

Noon ~ 6:00 p.m.

Celebrating the Best of Maryland in the Breathtaking Setting of this National Historic Landmark! Twenty three Wineries last year! Live Music, Free Mini Tours of the 1703 Plantation House and Colonial Revival Gardens, Artisans, Demonstrations, Exhibits, Children’s Activities, and Fine Maryland Foods for Purchase. Discount tickets available online ONLY: www.sotterley.org. Special Discounts for Sotterley Members - please call the office.

GHOSTS of SOTTERLEY

October 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26, 2013

Experiences begin 7:00 p.m. and run every 10 minutes

They’re baaaaaaack … all new for 2013! A spooky dramatic production and walking tour around the Sotterley grounds! $15 per person. Advance reservations required; no walk-ins. Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.

SOTTERLEY’S LEGENDS & LORE

Friday, November 8, 2013

6:00 & 8:00 p.m.

There is nothing like a good yarn, and Sotterley, with three centuries of people living on this site, has many exciting and entertaining stories that have been passed on over the years. Ghosts? Well of course! “Way back when” stories and recent experiences from those close to Sotterley will be shared. Storytelling at its finest, this presentation will bring out the storyteller in you! Advance reservations only. $15 per person. Limited to 20 people per tour. Walking required. Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.

MEMBERS' NIGHT of

SOTTERLEY HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT

“Whispers of War, Voices of Home”

December 5, 2013

6:30 p.m. and run every 10 minutes

Another benefit of membership! Come and make merry with delicious foods, spirits, and song on Opening Night of our Holiday Candlelight performances. Indoor and outdoor walking required. Call for reservations.

SOTTERLEY HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT

“Whispers of War, Voices of Home”

December 6 & 7, 2013

6:30 p.m. and run every 10 minutes

Visit friends and family for five Christmas seasons during wartime in Sotterley’s Plantation House. Live Seasonal Music and Light Refreshments. $15 per person. Advance reservations required; no walk-ins. Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.

New Event! SOTTERLEY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Thursday, December 12, 2013

3:30, 6:30, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, December 13, 2013

6:30 & 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

3:30, 6:30, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 19, 2013

6:30 & 7:30 p.m.

Friday, December 20, 2013

6:30 & 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the season at Sotterley Plantation with a tour of the 300 year-old Plantation House decorated for the holidays. Hear about Christmas traditions and the families that celebrated them. Advance reservations required; no walk-ins. Purchase tickets online: www.sotterley.org.

FAMILY PLANTATION CHRISTMAS

December 14, 2013

10:00 a.m. ~ 4:00 p.m.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year … at Sotterley! Visit Santa, Horse-drawn Carriage Rides, Children’s Crafts & Activities, Santa’s Secret Shop, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, Carol Sing, Twelve Days of Christmas Holiday Hunt, Greens & Gifts Sale, Craft Vendors, Live Seasonal Music, and more. Admission $5 at the gate.



"He Plants Trees to Benefit Another Generation" - Caesilius Statius

A Wonderful Way to Begin the New Year!

Adopt - A - Tree Program

With 2013 upon us, the Sotterley Landscape Committee is seeking help restore the site’s picturesque landscape through the Adopt-A-Tree program. Donations are being accepted to cover costs for phase one of the plan, to include the purchase and planting of 16 trees to be located within the historic core. Individuals or organizations may choose to either adopt an entire tree, or they can simply make a donation of any size to the tree fund. With the support of the generous community, the hope of Historic Sotterley, Inc. is to rejuvenate the landscape with new plantings to be enjoyed by all for generations to come.

“Donations can be made for a variety of reasons - in memorial for a loved one, to celebrate a special occasion or event such as a wedding, anniversary or birthday, or simply because you would love to see Sotterley’s landscape restored,” stated Nancy Easterling, Sotterley Executive Director.

During last year’s hurricane over 170 tress were downed, some dangerously close to the 1703 Plantation House, the original 1830’s Slave Cabin, and other outbuildings. As a precautionary measure, the Sotterley Landscape Committee opted for the removal of the remaining two trees which loomed over the rooftop of the Plantation House.

All donations will be entered into a special journal which will become a permanent part of Sotterley’s Archives. Donations can be made out to Historic Sotterley, Inc., and please note “Adopt a Tree Fund” in the check’s memo line. To donate by credit card or to learn more about the planting plan details, we welcome calls to 301-373-2280 during regular business hours.

###

2nd Saturday Series at Sotterley 2013!

Sotterley Plantation is pleased to announce the 2013 schedule for the 2nd Saturday Series. During the first five months of the year, the public will have the opportunity to experience five unique tour experiences. Advance reservations only. $15 per person per tour. Walking required. Purchase tickets online by clicking here.

“BACKSTAIRS/UPSTAIRS”

Saturday, January 12, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Go behind the scenes at Sotterley. Become an insider and enter places you won’t see on a regular tour. See the kitchen and travel up the back staircase to view private chambers and undisplayed collections. Learn what it takes to operate and support a museum. Limited to 16 people per tour. (Snow date 1/26/13)

“SLAVERY, RESISTANCE AND FREEDOM”

Saturday, February 9, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Slavery was a part of Sotterley’s history from the turn of the 18th century and lasted for over 160 years. Hear the voices and visit the places where African Americans lived and labored. Limited to 20 people per tour. Ages 13 & up. (Snow date 2/23/13)

“FROM THE GROUND UP”

Saturday, March 9, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

From the basement to the attic of Sotterley’s 1703 Plantation House there are numerous nooks and crannies rarely seen by most people. Presented by Sotterley’s Restoration Manager, this exclusive tour will reveal how the structure was built and what the various spaces tell us about the over 300 year history. Limited to 16 people per tour. (Snow date 3/23/13)

“A TASTE OF HISTORY:

HOW AFRICAN AMERICAN FOODS

INFLUENCED OUR MODERN CUISINE

Saturday, April 13, 2013

10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

What did people eat during the 1700s? Come learn about the foods that were transported on slave ships during the 18th century and how they influenced not only colonial dishes but our modern day regional foods. Lecture and demonstration to be presented by the Director of Education of Historic London Town and Gardens. Limited to 60 people per session.

“WOMEN OF SOTTERLEY”

Saturday, May 11, 2013

1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Discover the women of Sotterley. Whether it was the mistress of the house, the farm manager’s wife, the heiress, or the enslaved servants, the women of Sotterley were fascinating people who lived extraordinary lives. Limited to 20 people per tour.

###

Employment Opportunity: Marketing Manager

Marketing Manager for Historic Sotterley, Inc.

Status: 32 hours/week

The Marketing Manger is responsible for managing media relations, advertising, web communications, marketing for special events, private functions, education programs, etc. The objectives of these efforts are to raise the visibility of and visitation to Sotterley; enhance Sotterley’s public standing to better position the organization for fundraising; ensure consistency and effectiveness of message in all aspects of public communication. While working collaboratively with all staff members, in particular this position will work closely with the Director of Development.

Specific areas of responsibility include:

• Work collaboratively to create and manage cross-organizational, integrated marketing strategies that directly support the Strategic Plan and Strategy for Giving.

• Generate content and/or provide editing support for outbound communication to ensure consistent branding. This will include oversight of all promotional materials, advertisements, website content, social media, press releases, annual report, and member communications including a quarterly newsletter.

• Ensure the website, blog, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and all other forms of electronic media are monitored for current content and functions as an outreach and marketing tool.

• Cultivate relations with local media to increase media exposure.

• Ensure media outlets are always supplied with appropriate Sotterley marketing materials and information.

• Work with other entities including local, state and regional agencies on collaborative marketing ventures.

• Create and oversee placement of advertisements which will support Sotterley’s many events and programmatic offerings.

• Cultivate marketing and outreach efforts at local events and venues, to include some evenings and weekends as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications or related field preferred.

• 5-plus years experience in marketing, media, or program development preferred.

• Community-oriented individual.

• Demonstrate excellence in organizational, managerial, and communication skills; both written and verbal.

• Ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently.

• Resourceful in solving problems.

• Excellent people skills and enthusiastic attitude.

• Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.

• Strong computer skills with basic graphic layout and design capability.

• Superior professionalism and judgment.

• Strong work ethic.

• Prior historical site or non-profit service organization experience is desired but not necessary.

 

Please email resume to officemanager@sotterley.org.

No phone calls, please.



Employment Opportunity: Events Manager

Events Manager for Historic Sotterley, Inc.


Status: Full time

The Event Manager is responsible for oversight of all special events and site rentals at Sotterley Plantation. The position requires flexible hours with numerous evenings and weekends as the event schedule necessitates.

Specific areas of responsibility include:

Site Rentals and Weddings:

• Conduct site visits and bookings for prospective clients.

• Create and maintain contracts, invoices, and other paperwork between Sotterley, the client, and vendors.

• Ongoing communication between Sotterley, clients, and vendors to ensure needs and expectations from all parties are clearly communicated and met during the term of the contract.

• Ensure coordination between Sotterley, clients, and vendors during the week of the event to include apprising maintenance staff of all set-up needs and schedule.

• On-site support and supervision of set-ups, rehearsals, and site rental event.

• Oversight of event assistants as needed to include scheduling and communication of event expectations.

 

Special Events:

• Develop, coordinate and execute logistics for all special events. Hands-on approach to accomplish all details a must with ability to easily traverse the site and lift at least 25 lbs.

• Work both independently and in conjunction with event committees to ensure that the planning and execution of events is handled as professionally as possible.

• Establish relationships with vendors to acquire in-kind/rental needs for events.

• Works closely with Maintenance staff to coordinate all set-up and logistical support needs.

• Work with Membership/Volunteer Coordinator to ensure all volunteer needs for events are clearly communicated well in advance.

• Coordinate and attend committee/planning meetings and event rehearsals.

• Keep logistical needs within allocated budget.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of BA in related field preferred.

• 2-5 years experience in event planning and event management

• Demonstrated excellence in organizational, managerial and communication skills

• Ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently, but still effective at working collaboratively.

• Excellent people skills and enthusiastic attitude.

• Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.

• Superior professionalism and judgment.

• Strong work ethic.

• Community-oriented individual.

Please email resume to officemanager@sotterley.org.

No phone calls, please.

Employment Opportunity: Development Director

Development Director for Historic Sotterley, Inc.

Status: Full time

The Development Director is responsible for all advancement and development efforts of Historic Sotterley to include developing and maintaining active and productive relationships with donors and board members and helping Sotterley to diversify and secure additional funding sources.


Specific areas of responsibility include:

Fundraising

• Designs, implements and manages all fundraising activities including annual giving, endowment/capital campaigns, case statements, membership campaigns, estate planning, legacy gifts, and other solicitations.

• Develops a Strategy for Giving and directs supporting activities.

• Works with Executive Director to identify and manage appropriate grant proposals.

• Cultivate donor relationships with an eye on expanding Sotterley’s donor base and increasing revenue sources.


Board of Trustee Relations

• Works in tandem with Board of Trustees, Development Committee and the Executive Director to develop strategies to initiate and meet fundraising goals.

• Develops fundraising training for Trustees and other leadership volunteers.


Membership

• Works closely with Membership/Volunteer Coordinator and Board of Trustees to cultivate new members and to maintain the best possible relationship with current donors.

• Develops strategies to encourage additional avenues of giving for existing members.


Public Relations & Marketing

• Works in conjunction with Marketing Manger to execute a promotional plan in support of the Strategy for Giving.

• Attends outreach functions as needed to represent Sotterley (some evenings and weekends required).


Qualifications:

• Minimum of BA preferred.

• 5-plus years experience in Development or related activities preferred.

• Prior historical site or non-profit service organization experience is preferred.

• Demonstrated excellence in strategic thinking and planning.

• Demonstrated excellence in organizational, managerial, and communication skills

• Ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently, but still effective at working collaboratively.

• Excellent people skills and enthusiastic attitude.

• Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.

• Superior professionalism and judgment.

• Strong work ethic.

• Community-oriented individual.

 

Please email your resume to: officemanager@sotterley.org.

No phone calls, please.

Family Plantation Christmas THANK YOU!

Our final event of 2012, Family Plantation Christmas, was held last Saturday - and what a wonderful way to finish up the year! Each year, children of all ages enjoy a full day of holiday fun visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus, taking horse-drawn carriage rides, singing along with carolers, shopping in Santa's Secret Shop, the Sotterley Museum Shop, and from local vendors, purchasing scrumptious baked goods from Mrs. Claus' kitchen, visiting the petting zoo, creating holiday crafts and writing letters to Santa, enjoying the sounds of the Patuxent Voices, seeking out hidden goods in the holiday hunt, and playing games! Every year, more and more visitors are making Family Plantation Christmas part of their holiday family tradition. We are grateful to the following for their generosity, hard work, talent, and sharing the Christmas spirit with all of this year's visitors:

SERVPRO of St. Mary’s County - Sponsor

Bailey’s Party Rentals - In-Kind Sponsor

The College of Southern Maryland

Patuxent Voices

Raley, Watts and O’Neill

Terri Reynolds

Southern Maryland Girl Scouts

Suttler Post Farm

Frank Trossbach

Ellen Zahniser

Circle K Club from St. Mary's College of Maryland

Sotterley Garden Guild

Nancy Warren

Betsy King

Donald Barber

Bob Trible

Chuck Pirtle

Ashlie Stockton

Katrina Fisk

Lillian Turner

Megan Woods

Keene Kelderman

Kelsey Abernathy

Sarah Stayer

Abby Buchanan

Leslie Burgess

Katie Schultz

Kara Davis

Marci Turner

Paula Moroz

Alyson Bahl

Morgan Dorset

Carole Tucker

Joanna Woods

Melissa Hislop

Ame Roberts

Alyson Bahel

Shelby Newman

Liza Moore

Brooke Bartko

Katelyn Kean

Emily Wavering

Gabe Jensen

Isabel Klompus

Caroline Orlando

Rachel Downs

Mary Roderick

Susannah Fowler

Ann Buckler

Miriam Bonk

Lori Hamilton

Sandy Kraft

Bob Aldridge

Daphne McGuire

Laura Dean

and

the Sotterley Staff

Holiday Candlelight 2012 Thank You!

Last weekend's Sotterley Holiday Candlelight 2012 ~ "From This Day Forward" was a lovely event thanks to the dedication of so many incredible people. This year's script, written by Sotterley Education Director Jeanne Pirtle (also this year's Assistant Director), was brought to life by the marvelous Sotterley Players under the direction of the multi-talented James LePore. With the efforts made by Production Manager Linda Tucker Jones (Sotterley's Event Manager), Production Assistant Dawn Lopez, Technical Director Wesley Thomas, and the entire cast and crew, audiences were taken on a heartfelt journey during five time periods of Sotterley's history.

We thank all who helped

with what many are saying was 

"the best year yet."

Cast and Crew:

Director ~ James LePore
Assistant Director & Playwright ~ Jeanne Pirtle

Production Manager ~ Linda Tucker Jones

Production Assistant ~ Dawn Lopez

Technical Director ~ Wesley Thomas
Frank Greenwell

Pat Greenwell

Sarah Dudley

Alyssa Fox

Tia LePore

Helena Fondeur
Sarah Georgiou

Amanda LePore
Shannon Ivanchev

Paul Rose

Emily Fox

Phoenix Ivanchev
Kim Bessler

Ming Diaz

Dawn Weber

J.D. Hogg

Timothy Joyce

Emily Funderburk
Shemika Berry

Jay Hunter

Kenny Waters

Jivon Jackson

Kirk Kugel

Ashley Maucher

Chris Burch

Dawna Diaz

Sotterley Volunteers:

Ryan Achille

Melissa Bogner

John Bogner

Leslie Burgess

Rebecca Collins

Joselyn Contreras

Debbie Curtis

Jeanne Davis

Michelle Drayer

Justin Gates

Rebecca Hammett

Marshall Jones

Betsy King

Sharon Mattingly

Rich Richardson

Jordan Riding

Janet Rowland

Melissa Spratto

Dan Spratto

Sigrid Stiles

Barbara Trible

Bob Trible

Gloria Williams

Our Generous Sponsors:

Bailey’s Party Rentals

Today’s Bride

Unique Chic

Costumes provided by:

Newtowne Players

The Port Tobacco Players

St. Mary’s College of Maryland

Today’s Bride

The Sotterley Players

Banner Placement:

The College of Southern Maryland (Leonardtown Campus)

St. Mary’s Landing

Rick Tepel of Raley, Watts, and O’Neill

Ellen Zahniser

Magnificent Greens created by the Sotterley Garden Guild

Scrumptious Food Donated for Members' Night:

Bear Creek BBQ

Café Des Artistes

Dream Weaver Catering

Expressions Catering

Lenny's Restaurant

Sunshine's Catering

The Tide's Restaurant

Tonight: Grand Finale of the 2012 Sotterley Holiday Candlelight!

 

Good morning, all!

Tonight is the final night to experience

"From This Day Forward" 

 Sotterley Holiday Candlelight 2012!

 

The deadlines to purchase tickets

for this evening is 3:00 p.m. today! 

Online ticket sales only.

Please click here to make your reservation. 

 

 

Each performance takes you from room to room of the main floor of the 1703 Plantation House, where you will experience a different time period of Sotterley's history. Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes. You may choose the tour time which works best for you.

 

We look forward to welcoming you to Sotterley!



TICKET DEADLINES for Sotterley Holiday Candlelight

The deadlines to purchase tickets for this weekend's Sotterley Holiday Candlelight - "From This Day Forward" are coming up fast! Advance reservations to attend this spectacular holiday event are required, as we are unable to accommodate walk-ins. The tours begin at 6:30 p.m. and run every 10 minutes. Each performance takes you from room to room of the main floor of the 1703 Plantation House, lasting approximately 40 minutes. You may choose the tour time which works best for you. We look forward to welcoming you to Sotterley!

Click here to purchase tickets online only

through Ticket Derby.

Friday, November 30th - Opening Night

Deadline: Friday at 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 1st - Final Night

Deadline: Saturday at 3:00 p.m.



Five Sotterley Christmas Celebrations

This Friday and Saturday, Sotterley is pleased to present the 2012 Holiday Candlelight performances ~ "From This Day Forward." This year's script welcomes visitors to five Sotterley Christmas celebrations:

The Gatehouse ~ December 25, 1826

Eavesdrop on an intimate moment between young newlywed Emeline Dallam Briscoe and her sister Lydia as they discuss Emeline’s recent marriage, and their anticipation of a bright future.

The New Room ~ December 25, 1839

Join the Briscoe’s growing family in their private sitting room, a respite from the outside world of sickness and strife, as they discuss family concerns and plans for their children.

The Drawing Room ~ December 25, 1862

As the Civil War rages, Walter and Emeline host Lydia and Chapman Billingsley to their family celebration. Their son, Henry, and his fiancé also join them. The family’s faith and resolve are tested as three Briscoe sons plan to join the Confederacy in Richmond, just days after the Battle of Fredericksburg where the Army of Virginia has been victorious, but at a very high cost.

The Red Room ~ December 25, 1864

During the last days of the Confederacy, Maryland has just emancipated their slaves on November 1, 1864. With the Briscoes away for the evening, Hilry Cane, his wife Alice, and Hilry’s son, George, gather to discuss their past and their new found freedom. Will freedom now threaten to tear their family apart?

The Dining Room ~ December 25, 1885

As the Briscoe children, James, Margaret, and Walter, wait for their parents to arrive downstairs, they share memories with granddaughter Elizabeth and celebrate the nearly sixty year marriage of Emeline Dallam Briscoe and Dr. Walter Hanson Stone Briscoe. They discuss changing circumstances, events, and the future of Sotterley.

Introducing the tremendously talented,

all-volunteer

Cast & Crew:

Director ~ James LePore

Assistant Director & Playwright ~ Jeanne Pirtle

Production Manager ~ Linda Tucker Jones

Production Assistant ~ Dawn Lopez

Technical Director ~ Wesley Thomas

Frank Greenwell

Pat Greenwell

Sarah Dudley

Alyssa Fox

Tia LePore

Helena Fondeur

Sarah Georgiou

Amanda LePore

Shannon Ivanchev

Paul Rose

Emily Fox

Phoenix Ivanchev

Kim Bessler

Ming Diaz

Dawn Weber

J.D. Hogg

Timothy Joyce

Emily Funderburk

Shemika Berry

Jay Hunter

Kenny Waters
Jivon Jackson
Kirk Kugel

Ashley Maucher

Chris Burch

Dawna Diaz

Advance reservations required.

$15 per person.

Click here for details, times, and to purchase tickets.



Into the House We Go!

 

 

For two nights - this Friday and Saturday - the 1703 Plantation House is decked out for Sotterley's Holiday Candlelight performances of "From This Day Forward."

For many years, Sotterley has opened up the house for this unique holiday theatrical performance. The Sotterley Players (all volunteers) transport audiences to different time periods of Sotterley's history, bringing to life a new script each year. Based upon historical fact, with a fair amount of artistic license, the performances have delighted crowds each holiday season. The 2012 script welcomes visitors to five Christmas celebrations: 1826, 1839, 1862, 1864, and 1885. In each room of the main floor of the house, the drama unfolds!

We hope you will join us during this busy holiday season to applaud the talent, hard work and dedication of so many people. Because of them - all of them - this high quality performance event has become an important fundraiser for Sotterley.

Advance reservations required.

$15 per person.

Click here for details, times, and to purchase tickets.

2012 Holiday Candlelight Script SKEAK PEEK!

This year’s Sotterley Holiday Candlelight entitled, “From This Day Forward” will take place on November 30 & December 1st with performances beginning at 6:30 p.m. and running every 10 minutes. In this living history production set within the 1703 Plantation House, visitors will encounter Sotterley’s past Christmas seasons and the families who lived and worked here. Share love, laughter and sometimes bittersweet memories at home on the plantation.

Take a glimpse of this year's wonderful new script:

1826 ~ The Gatehouse

Eavesdrop on an intimate moment between young newlywed Emeline Briscoe and her sister Lydia as they discuss Emeline’s recent marriage, and their anticipation of a bright future.

1839 ~ The New Room

Join the Briscoe’s growing family in their private sitting room, a respite from the outside world of sickness and strife, as they discuss family concerns and plans for their children.

1862 ~ The Drawing Room

As the Civil War rages, Walter and Emeline host their family celebration. The family’s faith and resolve are tested as three Briscoe sons plan to join the Confederate Army in Richmond, just days after the Battle of Fredericksburg where the Army of Virginia has been victorious, but at a very high cost.

1864 ~ The Red Room

During the last days of the Confederacy, Maryland has just emancipated their slaves on November 1, 1864. With the Briscoe’s away for the evening, Hilry Cane, his wife Alice, and Hilry’s son, George, gather to discuss their past and their new found freedom. Will freedom now threaten to tear their family apart?

1885 ~ The Dining Room

As the Briscoe’s grown children wait for their aged parents to arrive downstairs, they share memories with granddaughter Elizabeth of Walter and Emeline’s 60 year marriage. They discuss fond memories, changing circumstances, and the future of Sotterley.


Live musical performances from local premiere high school choral groups and complimentary cookies and punch will be available in the historic Barn, prior to the reserved performance time.

ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED! No walk-ins.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS!
The cost is $15 per person.



The Next Phase of Growth for Sotterley

The Next Phase of Growth

Adopt - A - Tree Program

Restoration efforts have been ongoing for over a year since Hurricane Irene, and Sotterley Plantation is ready to begin the next phase of growth through the Adopt - A - Tree Program. Initially, donations are being accepted to cover the costs of 16 trees that will be located within the historic core, but additional plantings are planned for all over the site. Individuals or organizations may choose to either adopt an entire tree, or they can simply make a donation of any size to the tree fund. With the support of the generous community, the hope of Historic Sotterley, Inc. is to rejuvenate the landscape with new plantings to be enjoyed by all for generations to come.

“Donations can be made for a variety of reasons - in memorial for a loved one, to celebrate a special occasion or event such as a wedding, anniversary or birthday, or simply because you would love to see Sotterley’s landscape restored,” stated Nancy Easterling, Sotterley Executive Director.

During last year’s hurricane over 170 tress were downed, some dangerously close to the 1703 Plantation House, the original 1830’s Slave Cabin, and other outbuilding. A number of historic buildings sustained damage due to falling trees. As a precautionary measure, the Sotterley Landscape Committee opted for the removal of the remaining two trees which loomed over the rooftop of the Plantation House.

All donations will be entered into a special journal which will become a permanent part of Sotterley’s Archives. Donations can be made out to Historic Sotterley, Inc., and please note “Adopt a Tree Fund” in the check’s memo line. To donate by credit card or to learn more about the planting plan details, we welcome calls to 301-373-2280 during regular business hours.

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Here Comes Santa Claus, Here Comes Santa Claus ...

... Right down Sotterley Lane!

Family Plantation Christmas

Saturday, December 8th, 2012

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

A full day of wonderment and Christmas spirit!

Let Santa know what you want for Christmas, purchase scrumptious treats from Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, visit the sweet creatures at the petting zoo, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, sing along with the carolers, make holiday crafts, visit the Sotterley Museum Shop to find unique holiday gifts while the children are buying presents at Santa’s Secret Shop, and purchase seasonal greens and hand-crafted items from Sotterley’s Garden Guild! Craft Vendors for choosy shoppers! Patuxent Voices, a women’s acapella group, will perform Christmas favorites from many historical periods!

Make this lovely Christmas event

part of your family tradition!

The cost is $5 per person at the gate.

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Sotterley Holiday Candlelight Kicks-Off the Holiday Season!

“From This Day Forward”

Sotterley Holiday Candlelight

November 30th & December 1st, 2012

Advance Reservation Required! No walk-ins

This year’s Sotterley Holiday Candlelight entitled, “From This Day Forward” will run on Thursday, November 29th for Members’ Night and November 30 and December 1st for the general public from 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. In this living history production set within the 1703 Plantation House, visitors will encounter Sotterley’s past Christmas seasons and the families who lived and worked here. Share love, laughter and sometimes bittersweet memories at home on the plantation.

For the second year, Sotterley Education Director, Jeanne Pirtle has written a magnificent script, which audiences are sure to enjoy. Her writing talent will be brought to life by members of The Sotterley Players Acting Troupe. She will also be filling the role as this year’s Assistant Director.

Dedicated Sotterley volunteer and local celebrity, James LePore returns as the Director of Sotterley Holiday Candlelight for his second year. He is a working actor with an impressive resume, a DJ on internet radio (www.phoenixintermedia.com), and is the Host of The Buzz on TV’s Metrocast Channel 10.

Live musical performances from local premiere high school choral groups and complimentary cookies and punch will be available in the historic Barn, prior to the reserved performance time.

ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED! No walk-ins.

Click here to Buy Online! The cost is $15 per person.