Echoes of Liberty: Celebrate America's 250th from Oxford's Historic Shores & Your Private Beach

2026 marks a monumental year for the United States: its Semiquincentennial, 250 years since the Declaration of Independence. As Washington D.C. prepares for unprecedented crowds and festivities, imagine a different kind of celebration—one steeped in quiet reflection, authentic colonial charm, and the tranquil beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.

Welcome to Oxford, Maryland, a town where history isn't just displayed in museums; it breathes in the salty air and whispers from century-old homes. Just a scenic 90-minute drive from the bustling capital, Sandaway Suites & Beach, your adults-only waterfront boutique hotel, offers the perfect sanctuary to connect with America's past, present, and future.

From Founding Fathers to Chesapeake Charm: Talbot County's Deep Roots

Talbot County, home to Oxford and St. Michaels, boasts a heritage as rich as the waters of the Chesapeake itself. Long before the grand monuments of D.C. were even conceived, Oxford was a pivotal port of entry for colonial Maryland. Here, along the very shores you'll relax upon, the seeds of American commerce and liberty were sown.

For over 55 years, Sandaway Suites & Beach has been a proud steward of this history, nestled in a landscape that witnessed the birth of a nation. As the Eastern Shore awakens for the Spring 2026 season, we invite you to experience an unforgettable escape—a truly unique way to honor America's 250th.

Escape the Crowds: Your Dual-Trip Itinerary

Planning your America 250 adventure? We suggest a seamless blend of patriotic pilgrimage and serene retreat:

1. 3 Days in Washington D.C.: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the nation's capital. Visit the monuments, explore the Smithsonian museums, and feel the pulse of 250 years of American spirit.

2. The Scenic Drive: From D.C., embark on a breathtaking 90-minute journey across the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Leave the traffic behind as you transition into the peaceful, picturesque landscape of Maryland's Eastern Shore.

3. Reflect & Rejuvenate at Sandaway: Arrive at your private beach sanctuary. Unpack in your serene waterfront suite, where the gentle lapping of waves replaces city sirens. Enjoy Coffee by Seven™ and a complimentary continental breakfast on your private balcony, gazing out at the very waters that carried colonial dreams. Book direct at Sandaway.com for our Best Price Guarantee and secure a VIP Access Pass for guaranteed early 2PM entry and a leisurely Noon check-out.

Unearthing Local History: Tales of Resilience and Independence

While at Sandaway, delve deeper into the region's storied past:

 

• Robert Morris Jr. (The Financier of the Revolution): Long before the United States had a treasury, it had Robert Morris. Known as the "Financier of the American Revolution," Morris spent significant time in Oxford and famously called George Washington a close personal friend. Today, you can visit Robert Morris Inn in Oxford, where you can reflect on the man who risked his personal fortune to fund the birth of a nation.

• Frederick Douglass (A Voice for Freedom): Born on the banks of the Tuckahoe River in Talbot County, Douglass rose from the bonds of slavery to become a world-renowned orator and advisor to President Lincoln. He is a local son and a global hero. Visit the Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe to stand in the landscape that shaped one of America’s most courageous voices for equality and justice.

• Harriet Tubman (The Moses of Her People): Just a short drive south to Cambridge, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park honors the "Moses of her people." Born in Dorchester County, Tubman’s bravery and leadership in the fight for freedom are legendary. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of the Eastern Shore, reminding every visitor of the unyielding American spirit.

 

• The Oxford-Bellevue Ferry: Just one block from Sandaway, step aboard the oldest privately operated ferry in the U.S. This isn't just a crossing; it's a living piece of history, connecting you to generations of Chesapeake life.

• The Town That Fooled the British (St. Michaels): A short, scenic ferry ride away lies St. Michaels, famously dubbed "The Town That Fooled the British" during the War of 1812. Local legend says residents dimmed their lights and hung lanterns in tree branches to trick British cannon fire, preserving their town. Explore its charming shops and maritime museum, imagining a time when American independence hung in the balance.

• Talbot County's Hidden Gems: Beyond Oxford and St. Michaels, explore Easton and Cambridge, offering over 100 unique shops, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries, all within a picturesque 30-minute drive.

Your 2026 Legacy Celebration Begins Here

As the nation celebrates 250 years of liberty, step away from the noise and experience a piece of history that resonates deeply. Sandaway Suites & Beach offers more than just a stay; it offers a timeless connection to the American story, all from the tranquility of your private Chesapeake haven.

“Sandaway has a rich history. For a time, it served as the clubhouse for the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Club.” — The Oxford Museum