Published January 2, 2025

The Taylor House: An Olden Treasure in Ocean City, Maryland

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Written by Erik Windrow

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Located at the northwest corner of Talbot Street and Baltimore Avenue, the Taylor House
serves as a striking reminder of Ocean City’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Originally called Lot 54 on the 1875 plat of Ocean City, this has become a beloved landmark,
representing the town’s modest beginnings and its transformation into a robust
resort destination. This Queen Anne-style house endured magnificent remodeling during the
late Victorian period and has now stood for over a century.

A Legacy Rooted in History



The Taylor House story begins in 1875 when S. M. Huling claimed Lot 54. The property moved
around hands many times due to nonpayment of taxes until finally it was acquired by Robert
C. Quillin, who owned the Brighton Hotel. It was not until 1904 that John W. Taylor bought the
lot; he was very integral to early Ocean City. In around 1905, he completed his
famous house, which would remain in his family for generations.

According to architectural historian Paul Touart, Today, it is considered "...The largest and
most elaborately designed of the Queen Anne-style homes that remain in Ocean City". Its
distinctive details include a corner tower, ornamented shingles resembling fish scales, and a
wrap-around porch that, although it has been enclosed for years with sash windows, is still
quite historical.

Linking the past with the present

Once serving various purposes over the years, the Taylor House now stands as an integral
part of the vibrant downtown Ocean City and serves as the Talbot Inn's office. In assisting
clients with buying and selling property in Ocean City, we highlight Taylor House properties as
spaces where cherished life moments unfold. The historical significance of homes like these
captures the distinctive charm that continues to draw people to Ocean City.

Why It Matters to Today’s Homebuyers and Investors

The Taylor House is an excellent endorsement of how vintage homes tend to add value
beyond the material structure itself. For the investor, these are properties rich in histories
that tend to be quite attractive, as they give a leeway for the preservation of a slice of history
while basking in the euphoria of modern conveniences. For families, there is more of a sense
of belonging and being part of the community in such homes.

Whether you're hoping to find your dream beach home or invest in a property with roots as
deep as Ocean City's, The Windrow Group is there for you each step of the way. Houses like
Taylor House only reminds us that every home has a story—and we are here to help you find
yours.

You can go learn more about the fascinating history of Ocean City at the Ocean City Life
Saving Station Museum or some iconic sites such as the Taylor House. And when you're ready
to leave your mark on this vibrant community, just turn to The Windrow Group. Let us get you
started on making that part of Ocean City's legacy into your future.

Source:
Ocean City, Maryland – Then & Now, Lot 54 — Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum
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