Surround yourself with storied history
Rousby Hall's history, shrouded in mystery due to fires and wartime destruction, unfolds as a captivating saga spanning centuries. While the precise construction date of the main house remains uncertain, architectural features and unearthed artifacts strongly suggest a late 17th or early 18th-century origin, likely during the tenure of John Rousby II, who also served as the King's Collector of Customs at the next-door Customs House. The structure endured multiple devastating events, most notably the British bombardments of 1780 and subsequent damage during the War of 1812, necessitating several rebuilds and extensive renovations throughout its long history.
John Rousby III inherited Rousby Hall in the mid-18th century, residing there until his untimely death in 1750 at the young age of 23. Buried at Rousby Hall, his will—revealing a sound mind despite physical frailty—bequeathed Rousby Hall to his infant daughter, Elizabeth and gave Anne the property referred to as the Richard Bennett estate. Anne referred to as the "White Rose of Maryland" wanted the home she lived in and contested the will. Acting on her own behalf, very unusual for the times, she sued claiming her husband was not of sound mind at the signing of the will. She prevailed and by the end of 1752, she fully controlled the estate of Rousby Hall. In 1752, she married William Fitzhugh, a wealthy widower from Marmion, Virginia, renowned for his significant role in the American Revolution and his close friendship with George Washington.
William Fitzhugh, a man of considerable wealth and significant political influence, made Rousby Hall his primary residence. Historical records depict Rousby Hall during his ownership as a grand estate, regularly hosting lavish gatherings for prominent Marylanders and even Royal Governor Robert Eden in 1770. This prosperous era is well-documented through surviving letters and personal accounts. This period of relative peace and prosperity, however, was tragically shattered by the catastrophic British bombardment of 1780, which completely destroyed the original structure. Further damage would be inflicted during the War of 1812.
Following the initial devastation, William Fitzhugh and Anne, initially residing elsewhere, returned to rebuild Rousby Hall, completing a new structure around 1783. The War of 1812, however, brought further destruction, necessitating additional repairs and modifications. Fitzhugh's letters and ongoing archeological discoveries offer compelling evidence supporting these cycles of destruction and reconstruction. Anne Fitzhugh outlived her second husband, William, passing away in 1793.
Elizabeth Rousby, married George Plater III of Sotterley Plantation, located across the Patuxent River in St. Mary's County, George Plater III would later serve as the sixth Governor of Maryland. This marriage connected the Rousby family to another prominent Maryland lineage. Elizabeth's youngest daughter, Ann Plater, married Philip Barton Key, the uncle of Francis Scott Key, the composer of "The Star-Spangled Banner," further linking the Rousby legacy to significant moments in American history. This remarkable connection extends Rousby Hall's rich history well into the early 19th century.
Ownership of Rousby Hall continued to change hands until the early 20th century, each owner leaving their unique imprint on the property's story. The 20th century witnessed the ill-fated "Rousby-on-the-Patuxent" town project, extensive renovations, and ultimately, the tireless preservation efforts of dedicated owners who have safeguarded this exceptional estate, preserving a legacy of wealth, political intrigue, and enduring familial connections across the centuries.
You can read more when you visit Rousby Hall, A History of Rousby Hall by Elliot Kocen
Rousby Hall is listed on the Maryland Inventory of Historic Places:
