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Work at the James Brice House continued through July with a mix of conservation, structural preparation, and exciting moments of discovery. The restoration team, along with specialized craftsmen and architectural historians, carried out important tasks that support both the physical preservation of the building and the ongoing research into its 18th century design.
This progress report offers a detailed look at the work completed during this period and provides insight into the careful methods used to protect one of Annapolis’s most significant historic structures.
July 25, 2025
Mrs. Hayes-Williams is a respected expert on African American heritage, family histories, and cultural traditions throughout Annapolis and Anne Arundel County and her insight + expertise are helping us uncover connections between the Brice House and the lives of African Americans in 18th-century Annapolis.
Historic Annapolis was honored to welcome historian and longtime local changemaker Janice Hayes-Williams for a behind-the-scenes tour of the James Brice House.
We are deeply grateful for Janice’s visit and for her powerful voice in helping bring untold stories to light. Thank you to Rick Hutzell at the Baltimore Banner for bringing this story to the public.
July 17, 2025
Architectural forensics. Willie Graham, Marcia Miller and Mark Wanger plotting the staircase to the second floor of the East Hyphen. An earlier 1980s study had it rising in front of the South window of the hyphen, but evidence verified that it actually rose against the East wall. Little by little, the Brice House is revealing its original features.
July 17, 2025
Since the dovecote is blocked, our resident mourning dove decided that the new gutter on the Brice House would be a perfect substitute.
July 17, 2025
The beginning of the mechanical vault construction. Augering, not piledriving, in preparation for the insertion of vertical steel beams that will provide structural support for the perimeter of the vault.
July 8, 2025
Affectionately known as “the hammock,” an innovative way to protect a cracked plaster cornice.
July 2, 2025
Brad Stewart of Christopher Mills Conservation, LLC, demonstrating mold-making of damaged or missing plaster detailing at the James Brice House.
Listen closely to hear the connection between mold-making and playing the guitar.
The work completed during this period reflects the thoughtful blend of craftsmanship, research, and interpretation that defines the Brice House restoration. From plaster conservation to architectural forensics to community partnerships, each step helps bring a more complete and accurate understanding of the site’s history into view.
Additional updates will be shared as new phases of work unfold and as the team continues revealing the layers of this important Annapolis landmark.
Learn more about the history and restoration of the James Brice House.