The geography and environment of the Mid-Atlantic were shaped over hundreds of millions of years, reflecting influences that include the impact of a massive meteor; four tectonic mountain-building events; ice sheets and tropical oceans; plants and animals; and at least 15,000 years of human habitation.
Environmental historian and storyteller Hayden Mathews interprets the many layers of the region’s natural history as he leads a tour to three sites in Calvert County, Maryland: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, Calvert Marine Museum, and Flag Ponds Nature Park.
Explore the rich and varied history of the region as you hear Mathews’ tales of colliding continents, changing climate, species new and old, and fascinating people. Smell sea salt and the scent of pine trees and see towering bald cypresses, a rare albino snapping turtle, watermen’s tools, and the bones of ancient whales, camels, and mastodons.
In addition, stop at the Annmarie Sculpture Gardens & Arts Center in Solomons, a Smithsonian Affiliate, with 30 acres of forests, fields, and meadows on St. John Creek. Stroll along a walking path that weaves through the woods, a serene setting for the large collection of outdoor sculpture. Weather permitting, enjoy an outdoor picnic box lunch.
Know Before You Go
- The tour departs by motorcoach from downtown Washington, DC. Content delivered by the study leader on the way to the destination is an integral part of the study tour experience. Meeting the group once the tour is en route is discouraged.
- Tour participants meet at and leave by bus from the Holiday Inn Capitol, 550 C St., SW. No fringe pick-up.
- The walk to Flag Ponds beach is approximately 15 minutes each way; wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
General Information
- Registration for this tour will end by 2 p.m. ET on Friday, August 16, 2024.
- Smithsonian Associates is a mask-friendly environment. Please feel free to bring and wear a mask at any time during a tour, both for your safety or the safety of others.
- As we aim to move away from single use water bottles, guests are strongly encouraged to get in the habit of bringing their own reusable water bottle on tour.
- For additional tour information:
