Williamsport, MD

Williamsport, Maryland is located along the heavily traveled “Indian Trail” and was once occupied by the Iroquois, Delaware, Catawba, Algonquin and Massawomeck tribes. The settlement was known as Conococheague, an Indian name meaning “a long way” in Algonquin or “river of many fish,” in Massawomeck. Eventually Williamsport became an important transportation hub throughout the Industrial Revolution with the Western Maryland Railroad and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal intersecting within city limits.

Start at the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Williamsport Visitor Center and explore the multiple examples of major canal structures that can be viewed within a half-mile.

Adjacent to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is River Bottom Park, a great place to stop, picnic, and even camp the night. Leaving the park and heading to town, you will find a welcome sign to the community. This business directory kiosk, installed as part of a regional initiative known as the Canal Towns Partnership, welcomes visitors and encourages them to stay and explore the history of the region and enjoy the many community services and businesses. The Williamsport sign provides you with a history of the town and the myriad of attractions and accommodations you will find in town.

Travel a few miles further up Potomac Street to Springfield Land to visit a frequent stop of George Washington’s–the historic Springfield Farm and Museum. The Town of Williamsport restored the historic barn and is in the process of restoring the farmhouse. Visit the museum located in the barn and operated by the History and Museum Board and observe firsthand the rich heritage and history of Williamsport. Other points of interest in town are the Byron Memorial Park, the historic Memorial Library and Riverview Cemetery where General Abner Doubleday set up a battery of artillery during the Civil War. The cemetery overlooks the Potomac River and the Conococheague Creek and is the burial site of many of the original inhabitants of the town.

Visit www.visithagerstown.com for more.

 

Region: C&O Canal Towpath
Activity: Bicycling, Civil War, History