Patapsco Female Institute- Ellicott City, MD
On a hill high above town, safe from the Patapsco River’s raging waters, are the remains of the Patapsco Female Institute. Designed by Baltimore architect Robert Cary Long, Jr., the stunning Greek Revival first operated as an all girls boarding school in 1837. Hit hard by the Civil War, the school limped along until the property was sold in 1891.
After serving as a summer hotel for several years, it was converted into a private home in 1905. During World War I, the building was called into service by the government, and was used as a 50 room hospital for wounded veterans. It later was used as a theater and a nursing home, before being abandoned. After falling into disrepair, the county ordered the owner to remove all wood from the building, to decrease the risk of fire. Sadly, the structure was left with no roof, floors or paneling, which hastened its deterioration.
The property was eventually purchased by Howard County in 1966 for $17,5000; it was stabilized and partially restored, but largely left in its ruined condition. Hauntingly beautiful, it is a popular location for photographers.
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