The Historical Society of Harford County

July 4 at the Hays House Museum
2025-07-04 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Hays House, 324 N Kenmore Ave, Bel Air, MD, 21014, United States
Begin July 4 with music, games, and crafts for the whole family in Bel Air’s historic house. Traditionally, folks gather here to start the all-day celebrations in Bel Air. Consider joining us this year for a grand kick-off for the holiday. Free event. Donations appreciated

An Afternoon with Mary Katharine Goddard, Printer of the Declaration of Independence
2025-07-05 14:00 | The Historical Society of Harford County, 143 N Main St., Bel Air, MD, 21014, United States
Just one woman’s name appears on an official copy of the Declaration of Independence— Mary Katharine Goddard. In the face of British forces threatening to attack Philadelphia, the Second Continental Congress reconvened in Baltimore from December 1776 to January 1777. Congressional representatives contacted Goddard, a 38-year-old publisher and patriot who printed the Maryland Journal, requesting that she print the Declaration of Independence. Celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary with us and learn the story of Ms. Goddard and her role in this Revolutionary time.
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Trials & Triumphs: A History of the African American Experience in Harford County
2025-07-07 10:00 - 2025-08-01 16:00 | The Historical Society of Harford County, 143 N Main St., Bel Air, MD, 21014, United States
July 7 – August 1, 2025, Historical Society, 143 N. Main St., Bel Air, 10 am – 4 pm Monday- Friday
The Historical Society’s traveling exhibit will be on display at the Historical Society from July 7 to August 1, 2025. This remarkable exhibit features memorabilia, stories, and pictures that highlight the people, places, and events that have shaped generations of county residents. A special program is planned for July 22 at 12:30 pm to celebrate the exhibits’ last stop.

The B & O Railroad Comes to Harford, Virtual Presentation by Frank Wrabel
2025-07-15 00:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Sign up for a railroad adventure you will cherish for years to come. Join B & O historian Frank Wrabel as he transports you to the early days of the railroad in Harford County and beyond with incredible stories, photographs, and legends.

Concert: Music from the Life and Tour of Lafayette – David & Ginger Hildebrand
2025-07-27 16:00 | Havre de Grace Opera House, 121 N. Union Avenue, Havre de Grace, MD, United States
Join the Historic Havre de Grace Foundation, the Historical Society of Harford County, and the Cultural Arts Board for The Concert: Music from the Life and Tour of Lafayette. Musicians and music historians David and Ginger Hildebrand have chosen pieces from period sources to create a historical music program to commemorate the anniversary of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour. Selections will be played on period instruments that may be new to many in the audience. Tickets are $25. Tickets and more information are available at www.hdgoperahouse.org

This performance is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council through the Harford County Cultural Arts Board. MSAC.org; http://culturalartsboard.org

A Hero's Welcome in Havre de Grace
2025-07-29 16:00 - 21:30 | Concord Point Park, 352 Commerce St, Havre De Grace, MD, 21078, United States
Two hundred years ago, Revolutionary War hero General Lafayette made a farewell tour of the Colonies, stopping on July 29 in Cecil and Harford counties where he was greeted by enthusiastic crowds of grateful Americans. Two hundred years later, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Lafayette will return in full uniform for a celebratory reenactment of his historic visit. The exciting day will begin at noon with Lafayette’s arrival at Port Deposit Town Square in Cecil County and end with a BANG – evening fireworks at Havre de Grace’s Concord Point Park in Harford County.
3:30 – 4:00 p.m. Hutchins Park
After mingling with the citizens of Cecil County, Lafayette will board a boat as he did in 1825 and cross the Susquehanna River to Frank Hutchins Park in Havre de Grace. Upon his arrival, he will be greeted by a cheering crowd, young girls bringing him posies, local dignitaries, and his brother Masons. Accompanied by a Revolutionary War color guard with fife and drum, Lafayette will then proceed to Graw Alley at Harmer’s Town Art Center.
4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Graw Alley at Harmer’s Town Art Center
A welcoming ceremony at Graw Alley will kick off the festivities, as local dignitaries welcome Lafayette and he accepts their greetings. Following the ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lafayette, enjoy offerings from local food trucks, participate in games and crafts presented by various organizations, and visit local vendors. Live music will enhance the festivities. At 6:00 p.m. Lafayette will share his memories of previous visits to Harford County and express his appreciation for the welcome he received on his farewell tour.
7:00 – 9:30 p.m. Concord Point Park
Lafayette will lead the crowd from Graw Alley to Concord Point Park for a concert followed by fireworks. Family-friendly activities will also be on site
Bed & Breakfast Packages
