Sillery Bay Residents Epitomize “Pride In Ownership”

If not for the community’s large welcoming sign, Sillery Bay would be one of the hidden waterfront gems off Lower Mountain Road. It’s the kind of secluded and quiet neighborhood that makes people say, “I didn’t even know those homes were there.” For the residents in Sillery Bay’s 226 homes, that’s exactly how they like it.

The Sillery Bay Beach, as it was originally called, was platted in 1929 and had just 75 lots, though few were initially sold. In 1938, Kemp and Spellhouse Developers replatted the area. Lots and homes sold quickly to families attracted by the waterfront and affordable prices. By 1955, the Sillery Bay Improvement Association was incorporated.

The community has a large beach on the Magothy River. The water is clean and has a gradual drop-off, which makes it perfect for swimmers of all ages. A community marina is open exclusively to Sillery Bay residents. Developed by the Tar Cove Boat Company in 1958, the marina offers boat slips as well as a newly remodeled ramp.

David and Barbara Fisher
Residents Since 1976 and 1989, Respectively

Barbara Fisher officially became a resident of Sillery Bay in 1989 when she married David, who had owned a home in the community since 1976. They decided to remain in Sillery Bay, calling it their “sanctuary down Mountain Road.”

“We love the proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and our friendly, caring neighbors,” said Barbara, noting that there is plenty for the neighbors to enjoy together, such as an annual community picnic, family socials and boat club activities that take place on a regular basis from spring through fall.

“We have amazing neighbors who always look out for each other,” she continued. “For example, when a hurricane or bad storm hits our community, or in cases of illness, everyone is there for each other helping wherever and whenever help is needed.”

The residents of Sillery Bay maintain a private, members-only marina and a private, resident-maintained beach, which schedules regular work parties as part of the upkeep.

“Our neighborhood schools are Bodkin Elementary, Chesapeake Middle and Chesapeake High School,” said Barbara. “I was a teacher and department chairperson at Chesapeake High School prior to working as an Anne Arundel County Public Schools administrator. We are very proud of these three schools in the Chesapeake complex.”

Barbara serves the community as an officer of the board for the Sillery Bay Boat Club as secretary. She has assisted the county and community in beach cleanups, and she volunteered with the Maryland Department of Agriculture to continue the process of mosquito control.

“We truly love living in the Sillery Bay community,” said Barbara. “It is a lot like ‘country in town.’”

Patrick & Lynn Fisher
Residents Since 1976, 1986

Patrick Fisher moved from Pittsburgh to Sillery Bay with his family in 1976. He briefly attended Bodkin Elementary School before heading to middle school.

“I can remember when the students were polled and asked to vote on the new name, school colors and mascot for Chesapeake High and Windmill Point Middle School,” recalled Patrick. “Over the years, Chesapeake High School colors have changed and the two middle schools merged and became Chesapeake Bay Middle.”

After he graduated from Chesapeake High School, Patrick moved out of the community. Patrick married his wife, Lynn, in 1986, and they decided to move back to Sillery Bay. All three of their children later attended the same schools that he had as a child.

“The beach and water were the main reasons we moved back to this community,” said Patrick, referring to the safe and family-friendly beach area that is within walking distance from his home.

Patrick has been on the board of directors for the Sillery Bay/Hunters Harbor Civic and Recreation Association for more than 20 years. As a retired Anne Arundel County police officer, he has overseen security for the marina.

As vice president for Sillery Bay Improvement Association, Lynn is working on plans for a new playground, and she oversees security for the community.

“Sillery Bay has a lot to offer,” said Patrick. “Many families volunteer their time to maintain the community property and provide social events for the enjoyment of all residents. This is why we chose Sillery Bay.”

Colby and Brittany Eldredge
Residents For Five Years

Following co-workers’ recommendations, Colby and Brittany Eldredge moved to Sillery Bay in 2013 after living in Baltimore. In that short time, Colby has been elected president of the homeowners association.

“We had two very young children and wanted to move to an area with great schools. When we learned about Bodkin, we really concentrated on its feeder radius,” said Brittany Eldredge. “We absolutely love the school and the sense of community spirit that it brings to the area.”

Both Brittany and Colby grew up in rural areas out of state, so the lot sizes in some of Pasadena were much smaller than they were used to be. But both Brittany and Colby appreciate the proximity of neighbors.

“The houses are closer to each other than we’re used to, but that is such a huge advantage for our children, and for us, that we’ve grown to love it,” added Brittany.

In Pasadena, and certainly Sillery Bay, Brittany feels like her family has been let in on a little secret.

“We’re always shocked about how many people who grew up here and have stayed here to raise their children, or have moved back home after their post-high-school adventures,” she added. “We think that speaks huge volumes about the joy of growing up and raising a family in an area like this. We’re thrilled to have discovered the secret. It’s special here and the people reflect that.”