HOLLYWOOD — Historic Sotterley will present a special program on June 25, 2026, marking both America’s and Maryland’s 250th year of independence.
Historian and author Dave Brown will explore the life and legacy of George Plater III, one of Maryland’s influential early leaders whose political and civic contributions helped shape the state and the emerging nation. Brown will draw from decades of research to connect Plater’s impact to the broader, complex history preserved at Sotterley.
The program reflects Sotterley’s ongoing commitment to presenting an honest, inclusive and deeply human interpretation of the American story.
Port of Leonardtown Winery will offer tastings of its award-winning, locally crafted wines during the event. The winery, a cooperative of 12 member vineyards, has produced high-quality Southern Maryland wines since 2010 and earned multiple best-in-show awards.
The program is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with a pre-reception at 6:30 p.m. featuring light refreshments. It will take place at Historic Sotterley, 44300 Sotterley Lane, Hollywood, MD 20636. Attendance is free, though wine-tasting tickets are $20 for ages 21 and older. Both in-person and virtual options are available.
Dave Brown is a retired diplomat and university educator who has volunteered as a docent at Sotterley since 2000 and previously served on its Board of Trustees. He has authored books and articles on Sotterley, including “Sotterley: Its People and Their Worlds” (2010), “George Plater of Sotterley” (2014), “The Barber Family: From Slavery, Through Segregation and The Civil Rights Movement” (2023, co-authored with Donald Barber) and “The Kane Family: Slavery to Freedom at Sotterley” (2025).
Southern Maryland residents and visitors interested in local history and the nation’s founding era can attend the program to learn more about Plater’s contributions and Sotterley’s preserved stories. The addition of local wine tastings provides an opportunity to support a regional business while enjoying the historic setting.
Registration is required for both in-person and virtual attendance. Those wishing to participate in the wine tasting must purchase a separate ticket. Details and registration links are available through Historic Sotterley.
