“Your own summer cottage where you can swim sail fish and spend every summer evening with your family enjoying life as it was meant to be lived.” That’s how Arden on the Severn was advertised back in 1951. Welcome to Arden on the Severn Maryland. It is a hidden gem in Anne Arundel County.
Arden on the Severn wasn’t always the name. It started as Sunrise Beach. Developers sold quarter-acre cottage sites for as little as $495. The idea was simple create a summer haven close to Baltimore. The vision promised an idyllic escape. It highlighted swimming sailing and family evenings. All just 14 miles from Baltimore.
The name Arden on the Severn evokes a romantic past. It’s inspired by the ancient Forest of Arden in England. J Spence Howard surveyed the area in 1911. He laid out roads following the natural contours of the land. The original settlement spanned 600 acres. It stretched from Whitneys Landing Drive to Plum Creek. Sections four and five were not included initially.
Early deeds had surprising restrictions. No alcohol consumption was allowed. Also sales to people of Asian descent were prohibited. These restrictions reflected the prejudices of the time. Two doctors from the University of Maryland built homes here. They were close friends. They wanted to live as neighbors. But a poker game changed everything. An argument led them to sell their dream houses.
Sunrise Beach began to transform in the 1950s. More residents started living here year-round. They decided to unite and build a community. The Sunrise Beach Arden Civic Association formed in 1955. Residents wanted to create a directory. This led to plans for a civic group.
The community decided to change its name. Sunrise Beach became Arden on the Severn. Residents thought Sunrise Beach sounded like a summer resort. They feared it would lower property values. The new name was approved by the Post Office. But legal changes with Anne Arundel County never happened. So property deeds still say Sunrise Beach.
The Arden Community Association worked with Beach Shores Inc. Together they improved the community. Streets were turned over to the county. Street lights were installed. Bus service was introduced. Recreation programs were created. A ball field and playground were developed.
Today Arden on the Severn thrives. It has four private community beaches. Kayak Beach offers storage for kayaks. Residents enjoy direct access to the Severn River. Annapolis is just a short boat or car ride away.
Crabbing is a popular pastime here. Residents can use up to three crab traps per property. They often catch Maryland Blue Crabs. Many residents also dock boats and jet skis. Arden on the Severn offers a unique waterfront lifestyle. It is secluded yet close to major cities. It’s a place where history and community intertwine.