No other part of the county enjoys Sandy Spring's concentration of fine old homes. A few, like Clifton, were imposing when built and remain little changed from the original construction. Most began modestly, often as log cabins, and were improved in accordance with need and resources; in this they reflect the gradually increasing prosperity of the community's progressive farmers. A large number were erected by a single Quaker family, the Thomases, who also built the Meeting House. Richard 'Marse Dicky' Thomas alone built five proud houses before 1800, all of which still stand: Cherry Grove, Norwood, Woodlawn, Bloomfield, and Mt. Airy. The Museum's attractive Map of Sandy Spring lists 73 Civil-War-and-older homes that are visible from public roads. Many more fine residences, such as Avalon and Tanglewood, rest hidden in groves and woodlands, or were erected following the war.

Tanglewood
A lawnful of Thomases find a variety of perches at the family home Tanglewood c.1898. Alban Gilpin Thomas stands to the right of the horse, wife Susanna is fifth from left, and son Frederic holds the bicycle handlebars. Both male Thomases served as president of the bank and played key roles in its success. The A.G. Thomases built Tanglewood in 1871.