A Virtual Exhibit

Not So Ordinary
In the 17th century, an "ordinary" was a combination hotel, restaurant, and bar which served as a center for social, economic, and political activity. In St. Mary's City, nearly every building which stood for more than ten years served as an ordinary at some point. They were strictly regulated by law with the Assembly setting prices for food, lodging, and drink. The ordinaries ranged in quality from Garrett Van Sweringen's fine establishment to the plainer ordinaries such as William Smith's in the town's center.

 

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The Barroom
Abraham Diepraam
Dutch, 1665


Three pitchers by Morgan Jones, Maryland's first potter


German salt glazed stoneware jugs from St. Mary's City

Above:German Stoneware mug, Donyatt bottle, Staffordshire slipware candlestick

Right: English Brown Stoneware, 
Late 17th - early 18th century



Above: Iberian Earthenware storage jar, 17th century

Right: North Devon gravel-tempered earthenware, English. 17th century

Above: Square or case bottles, glass, 17th century

Right: Round glass bottle, 17th century

 


White clay pipes, primarily English, 17th century

Above left: Pewter mug, probably English, late 17th - early 18th century

Below: Staffordshire slipware mug, English, 

Right: 17th centuryCarved oak chair, English, reworked from a chest, 17th century

 

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