History
Todd's Inheritance is a 4-acre historic farmstead overlooking the Chesapeake Bay on the North Point Peninsula of Eastern Baltimore County, Maryland. It offers a window on American history as seen through the eyes of one family.
For over 300 years (1664 - 1970's), the Todd Family lived and worked the land, passing the property from father to son for 10 generations. The land was their inheritance, and in 1765 the family farms were combined into a single holding named "Todd's Inheritance."
Originally from Virginia, the Todd's were prosperous landowners and among the first in the region to purchase land in Baltimore County, eventually holding more than 1,000 acres. As slave-owners, they cultivated tobacco and later switched to more dependable grains, vegetables, and fruit. The family was also involved in shipbuilding and the maritime trades.
Todd's Inheritance played a key roll in the Battle of North Point and helped prevent the British from capturing Baltimore during the War of 1812. From Todd's Inheritance, with its strategic view of the Chesapeake, American mounted sentries kept watch for invading British forces. Among the militia stationed here were two Todd family members. Following the battle, the retiring British burned the original Todd home.
The property also speaks to early religious practices. The area's first regular Presbyterian services were held in Thomas Todd's home in 1714. The Todd cemetery, where Thomas' wife Elizabeth was buried in 1717, is located on the site. The family cemetery is still being used today.
But long before the Todd family came to these shores, Native Americans were living on these lands, and archaeologists have uncovered evidence of their occupation. Their story is among the many to be told at this rich historic site.
