Throughout August, the James Brice House restoration team continued important conservation and research work that supports both the physical stabilization of the building and the development of future interpretation. This period included material preparation, in-depth architectural analysis, and collaboration with state conservation partners to study artifacts that will inform future storytelling.

These updates reflect the detailed craftsmanship and scholarly care guiding the restoration of this significant Annapolis landmark.


August 31, 2025

The mechanical vault at the beginning of construction. A monumental task to say the least.


August 13, 2025

Recently, Historic Annapolis Staff traveled to the Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum’s Maryland Archeological Conservation Laboratory in St. Leonard, Maryland. The purpose of this trip was to view artifacts that were discovered at the Brice House in the 1990s by the University of Maryland’s “Archeology in Annapolis” program.

HA is in the beginning stages of developing the narratives that will be the basis for future tours of the Brice House. From these archeological artifacts (which are just a small sampling of what we will have to choose from) those associated with the timeframe in which the Brice family occupied the house will be displayed as appropriate when the Brice House opens to the public.

Much thanks to Rebecca Morehouse and other MAC Lab staff for arranging our visit and for spending quality time guiding us through the numerous boxes of artifacts.


August 2, 2025

New supply of oyster shells that will be used in the creation of lime mortar for laying and repointing brick as well as lime plaster for repairing interior plaster walls and ornamentation.

Behind the shells are pallets of handmade bricks to be used in the continued reconstruction of the kitchen firebox and the chimney at the south gable of the east wing.


August 2, 2025

Kelsey Britt, of Chris Mills Conservation, removing paint layers from the walls of James Brice’s bedroom.


August’s work underscores the wide range of specialized efforts that go into restoring the James Brice House. From preparing historic materials to researching artifacts that will guide future interpretation, each task helps build a foundation for preserving and sharing this site’s complex history.

As restoration continues, we look forward to sharing more progress and insights that deepen understanding of this important Annapolis landmark.

Learn more about the history and restoration of the James Brice House.