Words That Play

A patchwork of green, yellow and brown cover a landscape surrounded by large swaths of silvery blue glinting like a mirror for the sun; ribbons of jade and teal weave through clusters of lush green groves; and quaint towns where life is slow and easy offer fountains and flower gardens by which to rest… it’s Kent County, Maryland from a bird’s-eye view. With a landscape this inviting, it’s no wonder that the area is a haven for birds, waterfowl and butterflies. From wooded to wetland, agricultural to pelagic, Kent County’s variety of ecosystems offer both migratory and resident birds prime habitats for respite or long-term stays, and those year-round accommodations means it’s a major destination for birding enthusiasts, too. As of spring 2019, the Maryland Ornithological Society   listed 453 species of birds in Maryland (315 in Kent County alone) with another 20 listed as subspecies or species of questionable or exotic origin. That’s nearly half of the 1100-or-so specie...

Founded in 1642, Kent County, Maryland is in itself a virtual museum of American history—from Native American and colonial settlements to the development of important ports and African American progress. Venture anywhere within this charming area and you’re surrounded with reminders of its historical, maritime, agricultural and civic significance, though you won’t want to miss these 10 richly diverse museums . 1. Home to the Historical Society of Kent County, the Bordley History Center in Chestertown holds a treasure trove of historical and genealogical archives. Their library and exhibits embody the area’s past through documents, photographs, artifacts and oral narratives. Stop by the first Friday evening of each month for History Happy Hour, when they pair wine and cheese with fascinating presentations of the past. Or, arrange a guided group walking tour to learn about significant historical sites. Other happenings they host include the Historic House Tour every October, whe...