by Dana Miller What’s That? Manresa on the Severn
If you've ever driven along the Severn River in Annapolis, you may have noticed a stately white building perched on a bluff overlooking the water. That's Manresa on the Severn—a landmark with a long and fascinating history that many locals don't know much about. It started as a Jesuit retreat in the early 20th century and has transformed and adapted over the years to the changing needs of the Annapolis community. Today, it serves as an independent and assisted living community where residents continue to enjoy its beauty and charm. The origins of Manresa on the Severn trace back to the early 20th century. The first "closed retreat" was conducted by eighteen men at Georgetown University in August 1914. This gathering laid the groundwork for the establishment of dedicated retreat houses, leading to the founding of Manresa on the Severn in 1926. 1 Modeled after similar retreats in Europe, Manresa on the Severn served as a quiet place where people—whether clergy, laypeople, or even government officials—could step away from their daily lives and reflect. 2 Over the years, the retreat house has also welcomed midshipmen from the nearby U.S. Naval Academy and community leaders to take a break from the busyness of life. Spanning 20 acres of scenic waterfront property, the retreat's sprawling lawns and views of the Severn River offered a perfect escape for those seeking solitude and spiritual renewal. Manresa is not just notable for its history—it is also a local architectural treasure. The distinguished Cape Cod style building features divided pane windows, a tall spire, and a grand porch that stretches toward the water. For those
who have visited, sitting on the wide, shaded veranda while watching boats pass on the Severn is a truly peaceful experience. Its historic charm also persists throughout the interior details, including its stately woodwork and quiet nooks that once served as spaces for contemplation. After nearly 70 years as a retreat house, Manresa took on a new purpose when it was sold in 1995 to be converted into an assisted living facility, the Atria Manresa. 3 The estate recently reopened as Celebration Villa of Manresa, an independent and assisted living community that provides a home for seniors needing support. 4 The transition to a senior living community has been done thoughtfully, blending the building's historic character with modern amenities. Today, Celebration Villa offers an on-site full-service dining experience, salon and barbershop, wellness programming, and personalized care services. For many families in Annapolis, Manresa continues to be a meaningful place—not just as a landmark but as a welcoming home for loved ones. One of Manresa's special qualities is its proximity to the Naval Academy. Situated across the river from the Academy, Manresa offers incredible views of Naval Academy traditions, including flyovers and boat parades. Sources: 1. Inside Annapolis. 2006. "Manresa." Inside Annapolis. https://www.insideannapolis.com/ archive/2006/issue1/manresa.html. 2. Capital Gazette. 2019. "Home of the Week: Atria Manresa on the Severn Does Not Retreat from Elegant Living." Capital Gazette, June 26, 2019. https://www.capitalgazette.com/2015/12/04/ home-of-the-week-atria-manresa-on-the-severn-does-not-retreat-from-elegant-living/. 3. Baltimore Sun. 1994. "Jesuit Retreat to Become Community for Elderly." Baltimore Sun, July 21, 1994. https://www.baltimoresun.com/1994/07/21/jesuit-retreat-to-become-community-for- elderly/. 4. Celebration Villa of Manresa. n.d. Celebration Villa of Manresa. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://celebrationvillaofmanresa.com/.
Photographs courtesy of Deborah McQueary
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