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Office of the Mayor Dear Internet Visitor: Please allow me to extend the warmest welcome from Cumberland, a small city nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Western Maryland. Just a short 130 miles to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, MD, and only 100 miles from Pittsburgh, PA, Cumberland is close to urban meccas but far enough away to enjoy a completely different pace of life. Our mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to a city of 21,518, a city known for both its late 19th to early 20th century architecture and its long transportation history. Cumberland proudly boasts that we were the starting point for the National Road, the first Federally funded highway, as well as the terminus of the C&O Canal. We're still a major rail hub for the CSX rail line and many people visit the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which provides train enthusiasts a trip up a mountain via either a real steam engine or a vintage diesel. A ride on our railroad is just one treat we have to offer. Once you're here, we'll send you off on a splendid walking tour of a Victorian neighborhood found right in the heart of town. The tour offers a view and a history of houses that are striking in their architectural beauty. Much of the rich architectural heritage that the city enjoys today is a reflection of the city's prosperity and growth during the mid-19th through early 20th centuries. Throughout the city, and particularly in the downtown and Washington Street districts, a variety of architectural styles that typified the period can be viewed today, including Richardsonian Romanesque, Italianate, Queen Anne, Art Deco, Gothic and Greek Revival, just to name a few. Thanks to a combination of early grassroots efforts and governmental intervention, most of the architectural treasures are still in place today and are being protected for generations to come. Local residents and visitors to the area can enjoy the not only the growing arts and cultural opportunities, including the Cumberland Theatre, Embassy Theatre, local museums and galleries, but also partake in the many recreational opportunities--year round and indoor and outdoor--that the area affords. Coming into town from Interstate 68, travelers are always struck by the beauty of the city's lighted church steeples, many of which sit atop small hilltops. Our beauty is indicative of our spirit, and we welcome all who wish to experience the best of our small town life. Come for a visit and discover why Cumberland is an excellent place to live, and enjoyable place to visit, and a profitable place to do business. Sincerely, Mayor Lee N. Fiedler (Mayor of Cumberland, Maryland 2000-2011) Visit the City of Cumberland on the Web at http://www.ci.cumberland.md.us
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NEP