Historic Annapolis

The Durable Slate Company proudly serves Annapolis, Maryland, and surrounding areas. Our specialties include slate roofing, clay tile roofing, and copper roofing. We also work with copper gutters and custom copper ornamentation.

As a company, we adhere to our own philosophy, called The Durable Way. Simply, this means integrity in all things, superior roofing service, and a respect for time-honored tradition and methods.

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Annapolis, Maryland is a vibrant city with a rich history. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, it was once the capital of the United States and is still considered the sailing capital of the world.

Annapolis was founded in 1649 by Puritan settlers seeking religious freedom. The city was named after the princess Anne of Denmark, who later became Queen Anne. In 1708, Annapolis was officially designated as the capital of the Maryland colony.

During the Revolutionary War, Annapolis served as a key political and military center. It was here that the Continental Congress met and ratified the Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the war. In 1783, Annapolis became the temporary capital of the United States, with the Continental Congress meeting in the Maryland State House.

Annapolis continued to grow and prosper throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, eventually becoming a hub for shipbuilding and trade. Its historic waterfront district is still a popular attraction for visitors today.

One of the most notable landmarks in Annapolis is the Maryland State House, which is the oldest state capitol in continuous use within the United States. The building was completed in 1772 and is the site of the signing of the Treaty of Paris. The State House is open to the public and offers tours of its historic chambers. It features a unique "tent" style roof that was designed by architect William Buckland in 1772. This type of roof was popular in the late 18th century and is known for its durability and resistance to strong winds.

Another of Annapolis' historic roofs is found on the Charles Carroll House, built in 1720. This home features a gambrel style roof, which was popular during the early colonial period. This type of roof has a distinctive shape, with two slopes on each side that create a gable-like appearance. It was originally designed for barns and other agricultural buildings, but was later adopted for residential use. The Charles Carroll House is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early settlers in Annapolis, who adapted traditional building techniques to create functional and beautiful homes.

Annapolis is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Its picturesque waterfront and historic landmarks make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history.

1. US Naval Academy Chapel: The US Naval Academy Chapel is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, featuring a slate roof, stunning stained glass windows, and iconic spires. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Annapolis.

2. Hammond-Harwood House: This 18th century mansion is one of the best preserved examples of Georgian architecture in Annapolis. The house features an elaborate slate roof and is open to the public for tours.

3. St. Anne’s Church: One of the oldest churches in the United States, St. Anne’s Church is a wonderful example of Gothic Revival architecture. It features a beautiful slate roof, as well as intricate stained glass windows.

4. Maryland State House: The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol in continuous use in the United States. It is also home to the only public dome covered in wooden shingles in the country. The roof of the state house is made from slate tiles.

5. The William Paca House and Garden: The William Paca House and Garden is an 18th century estate in the heart of Annapolis. The house features a stunning slate roof and is open to the public for tours.

6. St. John’s College: St. John’s College is an iconic institution in Annapolis, founded in 1696. The college features a stunning slate roof and is a popular destination for visitors to the city.

7. Historic London Town and Gardens: Historic London Town and Gardens is a 23-acre historic site located in Annapolis. The site is home to a number of historic buildings, including a beautiful Georgian-style mansion with a slate roof.

8. Maryland Inn: The Maryland Inn is one of the oldest and most iconic hotels in Annapolis. It was built in 1772 and features a beautiful slate roof.

9. Hammond-Harwood House Museum: The Hammond-Harwood House Museum is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Hammond-Harwood House. It features a stunning slate roof and is open to the public for tours.

10. Chase-Lloyd House: The Chase-Lloyd House is a stunning example of 18th century architecture. It features a slate roof and is open to the public for tours.