Williamsport

Williamsport is the quintessential canal town since the canal was the only form of transportation that had any major influence on the community. Located at the confluence fo the Conocheaghe Creek and the Potomac River, Williamsport was first settled in 1740. In 1790 George Washington considered it for the capital city of the United States but rejected Williamsport because of the inability of large ships to navigate the Potomac to this point. Close by is Falling Waters where the Confederate Army made its escape across the rain-swollen Potomac after the Battle of Gettysburg.

Williamsport is the only place on the canal where examples of major canal structures can be viewed within a half-mile stretch. Lock 44, a lockhouse, a re-watered section of the canal, the Cushwa turning basin and the Conococheague Aqueduct are all located in this part of the park. One of the only Bollman Iron Truss Bridges still in existence today crosses the canal at Williamsport. The National Park's Visitor Center is located in the old Cushwa Warehouse and is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 4:30PM (301-582-0813). Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.