Annapolis -- 'Holly Beach Farm,' Labrot, Sylvester

Located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay near Annapolis, Holly Beach Farm was the home of the Labrot family, originally from Louisiana, and active in horseracing circles. The Labrots purchased the property around 1900, and in 1907 built a Georgian-style mansion designed by architect Douglas H. Thomas, Jr. The extensive grounds were landscaped with expansive lawns and garden borders that stretched down to the bayshore. Unique features included a pergola and gazebo done in a rustic work style. The house, which has recently been restored, was sold by the family in 1994, while much of the land was transferred to the State of Maryland in 1944 to create Sandy Point State Park. A more recent land transfer has protected 300 additional acres, which are now under the aegis of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Most of the images in this collection were taken by Thomas W. Sears around 1914, shortly after the gardens were first developed. It is likely that Sears was the landscape architect responsible for designing this job.

Persons associated with the property include Mr. and Mrs. Sylvester Labrot (former owners (ca. 1900-1930); Mr. and Mrs. William H. Labrot (former owners, ca. 1930-1950); Douglas H. Thomas, Jr. (architect, 1907); and Thomas W. Sears (landscape architect, 1914).