Belair Mansion (Bowie, Maryland)

Belair Mansion, located in Bowie, Maryland, is a historic five-part Georgian-style house dating back to the 18th century. It served as the centerpiece of the vast Belair estate, a prominent horse breeding and racing farm owned by the prominent tasker and Ogle families.

The original section of the house was constructed circa 1745 by Benjamin Tasker Jr. Later, the property passed to his daughter, Anne Tasker Ogle, and her husband, Samuel Ogle, who served multiple terms as Governor of Maryland. The Ogles significantly expanded the house, adding wings and decorative features, reflecting their wealth and status.

Belair gained renown for its successful breeding and racing operation, producing numerous thoroughbred champions. Horses bred at Belair included Gallorette, Discovery, and Nashua, all of whom achieved significant success in American horseracing. The estate played a vital role in shaping the development of the American thoroughbred.

In the mid-20th century, the Belair estate was sold and subdivided. The house and a small portion of the surrounding land were preserved. Today, Belair Mansion is owned by the City of Bowie and operated as a historic house museum. Visitors can tour the mansion, learn about its history, and explore exhibits related to the Tasker and Ogle families, as well as the Belair Stud farm. The mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.