In 1733, by an act of Maryland’s General Assembly, twenty-five acres of David Brown’s “Beckford” plantation were purchased and divided into thirty equal-sized lots, with Bridge Street (now Somerset Avenue) serving as the main north-south thoroughfare. Thus was established the town of Princess Anne, named for the 24-year-old daughter of King George II. The town was located at a narrow point, known as the “wading place,” on the Manokin River, on land that was “well elevated and conveniently suited” for a centrally located town in Somerset County. It became the county seat in 1742.

In the mid 18th century, Princess Anne gained considerable importance as a market center because of the river trade and the southward extension of the railroad on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. At that time, the Manokin River was navigable as far as the bridge at Princess Anne. Much of the town’s architectural heritage from those days has been preserved. About 150 acres of the old town, containing about 300 structures, is entered on the National Register of Historic Places.

Manokin River Park has been recognized by the Governor of Maryland for excellence in environmental design and public access. The park is strategically located at the edge of Princess Anne’s central district, focused on the scenic Manokin River.

While cherishing its prominent place in the history of the Eastern Shore, Princess Anne strives to ensure the welfare of its citizens today and into the future with modern, forward-looking governing and administrative bodies. The town is designated as a Primary Growth Area in the county’s Comprehensive Plan.