Annapolis Tours® by Watermark Colonial Guides
Meet Mistress Judy Houston
I was working as a mathematician for the Department of the Navy, when the decision was made to close the lab. My choices were a long commute to another lab or an early retirement. It took me only a few seconds to pick the second option. I started to joke about retiring and becoming a tour guide, but when I saw the ad in the paper for training for new guides I called and signed up. What a great decision. I really enjoy leading the tours and meeting so many great people, but I have also really loved learning so much about Maryland’s history (especially since I originally came from the colony to the north).
One of my most memorable tours was an African-American tour a few months ago. On the tour was an African-American man who was a Civil War re-enactor and had appeared in PBS mini-series about slavery and came in his Civil War uniform. Also on the tour was an older woman who had served in Africa in the Peace Corps. Both of these guests added so much to the tour because of all the knowledge they had and were willing to share, but at the same time they were interested in what I said. At the end of the tour, the Peace Corps volunteer gathered us all into a group hug at the top of Main Street.
When I am not tour guiding, I spend my time reading, teaching Sunday school to 2 and 3 year olds, sewing, and playing with our two grandchildren.
Watermark’s tour guides bring over 30 years of guided tour experience to the streets of Annapolis, Maryland and the United States Naval Academy. Visitors from school aged children to senior citizens to international guests walk side-by-side with our colonial tour guides as they explore our historic capital and enjoy the latest “gossip” about 18th century Annapolis.
Before our guides walk the streets in their 18th century attire, they receive over 50 hours of training beginning with the founding of Maryland in the 1600’s to present day. Training sessions include information on the history of Annapolis and its contribution to the founding of our country, how our state government works, architecture, African-American history, St. John’s College, and historic homes in Annapolis and their significance. All guides are certified by the United States Naval Academy. We take pride in knowing that we have the best trained guides who provide our visitors with an opportunity to learn and to laugh.
Guided tours can be customized to meet your group’s specific needs. Private tours can be presented in English, French, German and Spanish.
Annapolis Towne Crier
Looking to do something fun and unique for your next event? Invite the officially appointed Annapolis Towne Crier, Squire Frederick Taylor, to “crie” official proclamations as well as unofficial declarations. Squire Frederick and other Watermark Guides are available for proclamations and will work with you to create a personalized declaration that will add a unique flare to your event. Contact our sales office at 410.268.7601 or contact us to learn more.