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| Original owned by Maryland Historical Society |
The Bordley-Randall House built in 1760 dominates the left quarter of the drawing and is the most fully depicted of all the buildings. It sits in the center of its own city block defined by State Circle, Maryland Avenue, Prince George Street, College Avenue and North Street. This position allows for private gardens to completely surround the house. Most other 18th century mansions in the city have gardens only in the rear of the house. Furthermore, it is the only mansion positioned on direct axis with the State House. These features made it the most commanding, monumental and socially prominent house in the City.
Thomas Bordley (1683-1726) immigrated to Maryland from a well established family in England at 11 years old. He became a lawyer, landowner and politician. At his death he owned 7500 acres, an extraordinary library of 100 law books, and an entire city block in Annapolis. His eldest son Stephen Bordley (1710-1764), was educated in London, one of the most prominent lawyers in Maryland and taught the law to Samuel Chase and William Paca in Annapolis. In 1759 Stephen sold 1340 acres in Anne Arundel County and built what is now known as the Bordley-Randall House in 1760. The house was conceived and used as Bordley’s social show place. He entertained with lavish food and drink, cementing business and political connections.
This is an excerpt from an article on The Bordley-Randall House, part of series by Chip Bohl published in Annapolis Home Vol. 2, No. 3.
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