Photo: NPS Photo / Stephen GirimontThomas Stone National Historic Site preserves the colonial plantation home of Haberdeventure, where Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Stone lived and farmed tobacco along Maryland's Port Tobacco River. The 18th-century stone mansion sits on 328 acres of restored plantation grounds, including original farm outbuildings, slave quarters foundations, and the Stone family cemetery where Thomas and his wife Margaret are buried. Families can explore authentic archaeological discoveries, including remnants of the plantation's slave community and colonial-era artifacts that bring the complex history of enslavement and freedom to life. What sets this site apart from other colonial homes is its focus on the complete plantation community—not just the wealthy family's story, but the experiences of enslaved people who made the plantation possible.
Junior Ranger Program at Thomas Stone National Historic Site
The Junior Ranger program at Thomas Stone engages young historians through interactive activities focused on colonial life and the Revolutionary War era. Kids complete a booklet featuring puzzles, games, and exploration activities that help them understand what daily life was like in the 1700s and Thomas Stone's role in founding our nation.
- Explore the restored 18th-century plantation house and grounds
- Learn about colonial farming and daily life through interactive exhibits
- Discover how Thomas Stone helped shape American independence
Program Details
Best Ages for Thomas Stone National Historic Site
Age ranges are suggested groupings — check at the visitor center for the official Junior Ranger booklet breakdown.
Ages 4–7
Young historians love the hands-on exploration activities and puzzles that help them understand what daily life was like in colonial times. The shorter walking trails to the mansion and cemetery work well for little legs, though families should plan for the 30-minute guided house tour. The activity book includes games and visual elements that keep younger kids engaged with Thomas Stone's story.
Ages 8–12
This age group truly connects with the Revolutionary War era activities and can appreciate the complex history of plantation life, including the stories of enslaved people who lived and worked here. Kids this age enjoy the archaeological discoveries and can handle the longer farm outbuildings loop that explores the complete plantation community. The booklet's puzzles and exploration activities are perfectly suited for developing critical thinking about American history.
Ages 13+
Teens and adults appreciate the deeper historical context of Thomas Stone's role as both a Founding Father and plantation owner who relied on enslaved labor. The program encourages critical thinking about the contradictions between the Declaration of Independence's promise of freedom and the reality of enslavement at Haberdeventure. Older participants often find the archaeological evidence and primary source materials particularly compelling for understanding this complex period in American history.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
The historic site sits on Rose Hill Road between US Highways 225 and 6, about four miles west of LaPlata, Maryland. The small parking area can accommodate larger vehicles, but arrive early on weekends since space is limited at this intimate site. No reservations required, but the site only operates Saturday and Sunday during the season.
Van & RV Notes
The parking area can handle our 22-foot Sprinter and other RVs, though tight maneuvering may be required in the small lot. No campgrounds are available on-site, but families typically stay at nearby Smallwood State Park which offers RV-friendly sites with hookups. The historic site's weekend-only schedule works well for RV travelers exploring the broader Potomac Heritage region.
Best Time to Visit
Visit April through November when the site is open, with May through October offering the most comfortable weather for outdoor exploration. Weekend visits provide the only opportunity to tour the historic house, though the grounds can feel crowded during peak fall foliage season. Spring visits often feature wildflowers blooming across the plantation grounds and fewer crowds than summer months.
How Long to Spend
Plan a half-day visit to complete the Junior Ranger program and explore the main historic areas, including the guided house tour and shorter trails. Families wanting to hike all the loops and truly absorb the complex history of both the Stone family and enslaved community should allow a full day.
Don't Miss
The guided tour of Thomas Stone's mansion provides fascinating details about colonial life and Stone's role in signing the Declaration of Independence that you simply can't get from self-guided exploration. Walking the Farm Outbuildings Loop reveals archaeological foundations and interpretive exhibits about the enslaved community at Haberdeventure, offering essential context about who actually built and maintained this plantation.
Fun Facts for Kids
Thomas Stone was only 33 years old when he signed the Declaration of Independence, making him one of the younger Founding Fathers
The plantation's name 'Haberdeventure' comes from the family's coat of arms and means 'Have Adventure'
Archaeological excavations have uncovered thousands of artifacts including pottery, tools, and personal items belonging to the enslaved community
The Stone family cemetery contains graves dating back to the 1750s, with some headstones carved from local Aquia Creek sandstone
Plan Your Stay
Save on park entry with the America the Beautiful Pass — $80 for unlimited access to all 400+ National Park sites for a full year.
Where to Stay
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Nearby Parks to Earn More Badges
Fort Washington Park
Fort Washington Park offers families impressive Civil War fortifications and Potomac River views just 30 minutes north, perfect for combining colonial and Civil War history.
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington DC provides powerful stories of freedom and civil rights that complement Thomas Stone's complex legacy of liberty and enslavement.
Prince William Forest Park
Prince William Forest Park delivers excellent camping and hiking opportunities about an hour south, ideal for families wanting to extend their Maryland history trip with outdoor adventures.
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