Fort Belvedere
201 South Water Street

Dating to 1857 and known as Fort Belvedere, this is an excellent example of mid-19th century Eastern Shore architecture. It was built by Captain James Frisby Taylor in a very "modern" style (Eastern Shore homes from the pre-Civil War period typically were built in styles considered outmoded elsewhere). This large rectangular house combines elements of the Greek Revival and Italianate styles. It retains its original features including entrances, bracketed cornice, tall paneled pilasters at the corners, verandahs, and its namesake belvedere, or lantern, on its low-pitched roof. Inside is the classic four-square plan with a gracious entry hall and double parlor with a wide archway and plaster cornices. Particularly notable is the staircase's massive turned walnut newel post and applied millwork available from city building-component businesss of its era. The home has recently been enhanced by a two-story carriage house, with two-car garage below and a guest quarters above, as well as newly-installed riverside gardens, enclosed by a brick wall.