Maryland State House Old Treasury Building, Annapolis, MD
The Old Treasury Building (OTB), located adjacent to the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Maryland, is a contributing structure within one of the most historically significant government complexes in the United States. The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, and the Old Treasury Building plays a critical role in the architectural and cultural landscape of the site.
Completed in December 2025, this multimillion-dollar restoration project focused on the comprehensive conservation of the Old Treasury Building’s exterior envelope, associated site features, and roofing systems. The work was executed by The Christman Company, with specialized craft restoration services self-performed by The Durable Restoration Company, under the architectural guidance of MCWB Architects.
The scope included a full rake-out and repointing of the historic brick façades using custom oyster shell lime mortar developed to replicate the building’s original materials. Selective brick replacement and patching were undertaken using reclaimed brick carefully matched to the original historic blend, while the stone foundation was repointed to ensure long-term structural stability and visual continuity.
Beyond the building envelope, the project extended to the restoration and reconstruction of surrounding retaining walls, walkways, and staircases that connect the Old Treasury Building to the broader State House campus. This work involved selective demolition, material salvage, relaying of historic masonry, limestone and granite repairs using dutchmen, and the seamless reintegration of salvaged stone elements to preserve historic character while improving durability and accessibility.
The roof restoration featured reclaimed Tidewater Red Old Growth Cypress shingles, installed using historically accurate detailing including swept valleys, tapered valley boards, radius-cut shingle edges, and mitered butts. Traditional layout methods, including the use of a water-level system, ensure smooth transitions between differing roof slopes.
Together, the building and site work reflect an integrated restoration approach that balances preservation, craftsmanship, and function, reviving historic materials and techniques while reinforcing the Old Treasury Building’s role within Maryland’s most important civic landscape.
Press and Publicity:
Maryland State House brick wall renovations | PHOTOS – Capital Gazette
Awards:
Washington Building Congress 2026 Craftsmanship Award – Unit Masonry