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Millersville MD got its start as the site of the first Post Office along the A&E Railroad in 1841. The town still retains the cozy crossroads feeling and has only expanded slightly from its original size. Today, it contains a mixture of historic buildings and homes alongside modern structures. One of the town's most beloved historic locations is the Baldwin Hall whose history dates back almost as far as the town itself.
Originally built in 1861 to serve as a sanctuary and Sunday school for the Cross Roads Methodist Church, the Baldwin Hall was made possible by William Henry Baldwin and his wife Jane, along with their children. The church was seen as a gesture of peace to a community that was being torn apart by secession and slavery disagreements during the Civil War.
The children of William and Jane Baldwin promised one another not to let the complications of the war come between their family and religious obligations. In 1866 Charles William Baldwin took over as minister and stayed in that post for the next 71 years.
In 1935, the building was rededicated the "Charles William Baldwin Hall and Church School Building" in honor of the longtime minister. The next several decades would prove unstable for the worshiping congregations and the church would periodically fall out of use and become home to various theater groups in the area.
The not-for-profit Severn Cross Roads Foundation was established in the 1970s to preserve the Charles W. Baldwin Hall and surrounding grounds. It presided over the Hall's 1981 move to its present location and petitioned for entry into the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The Hall serves as a significant example of 19th century country church construction. This particular style is known for incorporating Gothic details such as tall arched windows and molded battens with 18th century church foundations.
The Hall is no longer a place of worship. Instead, it exists to collect and preserve the history of the people of Millersville MD. It is also a popular place for community events such as craft fairs, banquets, fundraisers, Scouts meetings, dance recitals, and more.
The Hall can accommodate up to 150 seated guests, less if you want space for dancing. Reservations include chairs and tables and assistance with coordinating events and recommendations for local florists, caterers, music, and more. The building and grounds are meticulously maintained and are the perfect backdrop for event photos.
The Hall is surrounded by two acres of expansive lawns, mature trees, formal gardens, and even houses a replica one-room school house. The building itself features a large open front porch, beautifully arched windows, lofty ceilings, hardwood floors, and sparkling chandeliers. The Bride's Room is the perfect private retreat for the bridal party to get ready for the big event. The Hall also has a warming kitchen for caterers to set up and a nook for bar service.
The Severn Cross Roads Foundation and the Millersville MD community hope that Baldwin Hall can serve as a community gathering place for another 150 years. To learn more about living in Millersville or for help finding a home here, contact Prudential Homesale YWGC Realty today.
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