1668

Dorchester County's legal origin is not known, although it was in existence by February 16, 1668, when a writ was issued to the county sheriff by the Lord Proprietary. The County was named for Sir Edward Sackville, the 4th Earl of Dorset, a family friend of the Calverts. Dorset as it was originally called was a political entity by 1669. The 4 th Earl of Dorset died in England in July of 1652. The county was created from portions of Somerset and Talbot counties. Note that Maryland was founded in 1634 and the Earl helped administer the Virginia settlement in 1631.
Learn More of the 4th Earl of Dorset

Edward Sackville, 4th Earl of Dorset

THE FOLLOWING MAP LOADS SLOW AS IT HAS BEEN MADE LARGE SO YOU CAN READ THE DETAILS.

CLICK TO SEE MARYLAND TIME-LINE

CLICK HERE FOR LAND RECORDS FROM 1675 - 1899