Shiplap House

Photos Map Information: 18 Pinkney Street Annapolis, MD 21401 800-603-4020 or 410-267-7619 www.annapolis.org House open by appointment only Advertisement

Shiplap House was built about 1715, making it one of the oldest surviving buildings in Annapolis. The term "shiplap" refers to the exterior siding on the rear of the building, a technique used primarily in shipbuilding.

Edward Smith lived there and used it as his place of business and to house "strangers." He combined inn-keeping with the business of a "sawyer," cutting lumber into lengths suitable for building houses and ships. When Smith died in 1723, his wife ran the business until her death.

Taverns such as Shiplap House were an important part of the cityscape. People coming to town for the General Assembly, Provincial Court, or to buy and sell their goods depended on taverns for a place to stay, get a bite to eat, and hear all of the important news of the day.

Shiplap House has been restored over the course of many years. It was purchased by Historic Annapolis Foundation in 1957 and later purchased by private owners, who completed the interior restoration in the early 1980s. During the restoration process early building techniques and materials were uncovered, giving us insight into the skills and practices of early 18th-century house builders of Annapolis.

Currently, Shiplap House houses the main offices for Historic Annapolis Foundation.