7546 Norwood Avenue
Photograph of 7546 Norwood Avenue, taken by Gate House Staff in October of 2025.
History
Norwood Avenue itself is part of the original wagon road which ran between Sykesville and Frederick. Main Street only became the center street after the flood of 1868 changed the development of Town businesses and the stream of Spout Hill was re-routed to make Main Street less swampy. When this structure was built, it was part of Church Street (then considered "Church Avenue"). The name "Norwood Avenue" first appears on 1940 census records for the Town of Sykesville.
The building at 7546 does not resemble the original building encapsulated within the structure. This building started as a flat-roofed two-story cottage painted white with green shutters in a style referenced as a "Brown Cottage" after developer, Frank Brown. Originally, there were two other such cottages to the left of this address.
See the photos below to learn more!
Architectural Details
Originally designed in the mid-1880s as a Frank Brown cottage, this building was renovated to add a third floor, bay window, and other features popular closer to the turn of the century.
In 1996, Jonathan Herman purchased and restored this property as well as 7534 Norwood Avenue.
2025
Photo by Gate House Museum staff taken from Norwood Avenue street-level.
c. 1997-2002
7534 is seen here from a 1997-2002 album from the Gate House Museum collection.
1986
Stairwell of the John Norwood House is seen here during renovation in 1986 by Jonathan Herman.
Site Use
Research is ongoing to confirm the historical use of this property. If you see any errors or have additional information, please contact the Museum through the methods at the bottom of the page
Confirmed Use as of November 2, 2025:
1883-1885: Frank Brown purchases 41 acres of land, including this property, from Harry Clabaugh, trustee for the Whiting Estate constructs cottages throughout the Sykesville area, of which this house was one of several. (30 November 1883: 60-95)
1996: Home is purchased and is restored by Jonathan and Rebecca Herman (The Sun, Baltimore, 11 May 1997, p. 6K)