Find us:
Millard Cooper Park, 7282 Cooper Drive, Sykesville, MD, in the stone house at the entrance.
Our hours are:
Sunday: 12-5
Tuesday: 10-4
Friday 10-4
The museum is closed on all Federal holidays, as well as from December 12, 2025-Feburary 27, 2026 for our annual reset.
Becoming a Museum
The Gate House didn't start life as a museum. Nor did it serve long in its original purpose as a controlled entry point to Springfield Hospital.
Beginning in 1913, the family of William Shipley lived in the Gate House. Shipley served as the chief purchasing agent for the hospital, and lived here until his death in 1954.
After the Shipleys left, the house fell into disrepair, and when Route 32 cut the town off from the hospital, the Gate House became further neglected. Eventually, the town of Sykesville bought the house from the state for $100.
A group of volunteers put in countless hours, gathering artifacts, analyzing paint, battling termites, and turning the old house into a town museum.
Since 1997, the museum has served as a free public history museum celebrating the Town of Sykesville.
How Can We Help You Engage with History?
Select the "Visit the Museum" button above to see our current exhibits and special offerings.
Group tours and scout programs are available outside of scheduled hours.
Please call the curator at (410) 549-5150 to schedule group tours or research visits.
The Gate House welcomes volunteers aged 12 (6th grade) and up. Call or visit for details about current volunteer needs.