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Ex pl or 2021 e SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA and FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX Unofficial Guide to State Park Facilities and Programs
Family Fun! epic In hagerstown & washington county Visit our 8 State Parks for Family Fun, Living History, Wildlife and More! #MasksUpMaryland / #RecreateResponsibly 301-791-3246 VISITHAGERSTOWN.COM
Voted Maryland Gin Distillery of the Year & Best Frederick Wedding Venue Award Winning Wines Tasty Food Menu Overnight Luxurious odations Accomm Indoor Eve For 300 nt Seating Guests Maryland ’s Farm & H Largest Lavende ome r Lavende of Maryland r Festiva l We Farm Whiskey Craft Beer On Tap illed Spirits Farm To Glass Dist Live Music & Even ts HM-944718-1 EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 3
The South Mountain Recreation Area is open for adventure year-round. Climb, swing,and ZIP through the trees on 14 different courses with 7 difficulty levels. DO YOU KNOW .. LEDO ? F y Family Style y DDinning inning Cut out or bring in for Fun For the Entire Family $ 3off purchase 25.00 $ • Hagerstown’s only paint your OR own pottery/ceramics studio! Foxshire Fox xshiree Pla Plaza aza $ 5off 30.00 $ • No appointment necessary! Experience purchase • Girls Night Out! cannot be combined with other discounts/promos Foxshire Plaza Private Banquet 1423 Dual Hwy., 1201 E Dual Highway, Hagerstown, MD 21740 • 301-797-3100 theDifference Room for Groups Hagerstown, MD See website for hours • www.potterybyme.net HM-946568-1 301-766-4900 4 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
Welcome to Maryland State Parks! South Mountain Recreation Area 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD South Mountain Recreation Area 301-791-4767 Interim Park Manager Mark Spurrier With five state parks in the midst of a 13,000-acre forest, the South Mountain Recreation Area is open for adventure year-round! Featuring boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, mountain Asst. Park Manager Michael Burditt biking, camping, and picnicking, Greenbrier State Park is the perfect place to get your blood Park Maintenance Program Supervisor pumping or just relax and unwind. Maryland's approximately 40 miles of the Appalachian Timothy Trembly National Scenic Trail follows the length of the South Mountain ridgeline, beckoning hikers Lead Ranger Chris Todd for a day trip or an overnight excursion. Gathland State Park presents the unique history of Office Supervisor Philip Hurline Civil War correspondent George Alfred Townsend, whose estate now houses two museums, South Mountain Cover Photo by Tammy McCorkle and you can walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought in the first major Civil War battle in Maryland at South Mountain State Battlefield. At Washington Monument State Park, climb to the top of the first monument honoring George Washington for unrivaled views of the mountain and valley. Be sure you have the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment Fort Frederick for a safe, environmentally respectful visit, and enjoy your time in the great outdoors at the South Mountain Recreation Area! State Park Complex 11100 Fort Frederick Road, Big Pool, MD 301-842-2155 Fort Frederick State Park Complex Park Manager Ranger Jacob Doyle We are very pleased to have you as our guest within the three parks that comprise this Asst. Park Manager Ranger Bob Study Potomac River heritage corridor. The park complex consists of Fort Frederick State Park, the Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT), and Woodmont Natural Resources Management Area Maryland Park Service Ranger Robert Ambrose (NRMA). The park complex headquarters is at Fort Frederick. Please join us for an historical Maryland Park Service Ranger Jeremiah Corbin interpretive program at the fort, a bike ride along the paved WMRT, and hunting and hiking Administrative Specialist Betsy Mellott at Woodmont Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA). At Fort Frederick State Park Fort Frederick Cover Photo by Frank Ceravalo Complex, we hope that you will come for the history and stay for the day! Park Watch 800-825-PARK TABLE OF CONTENTS Central Reservation 888-432-CAMP Leave No Trace.......................................................6 Hunting Policy and Land Maps.............................17 parkreservations.maryland.gov Appalachian Trail....................................................7 Fort Frederick State Park......................................18 General Information 800-830-3974 Greenbrier State Park.............................................8 Fort Frederick State Park Map..............................19 TTY users call via the MD Relay Greenbrier State Park Trail System Map..................9 Fort Frederick Walking Tour...................................20 866-804-7846 Greenbrier Campgrounds and Map.......................10 Williams Family - African-American Call Center International 410-500-9901 South Mountain State Heritage Walking Tour...........................................21 Battlefield and Map.............................................11 dnr.maryland.gov Friends of Fort Frederick.......................................22 Gathland State Park.............................................12 Western Maryland Rail Trail..................................23 Washington Monument State Park........................13 Woodmont Natural Resources Published by Herald-Mail Media South Mountain Recreation Area Map............ 14-15 Management Area................................................24 South Mountain State Park..................................16 Wildlife and Fishing, Pets Policy...........................25 Lisa Tedrick Prejean Editor Jessica Strope Graphic Artist Colleen McGrath Chief Photographer EMERGENCY AND 24-HOUR CONTACT INFORMATION Additional photography courtesy of park staff members Emergency Assistance Call 911 For Park Ranger Information or Assistance, Call the Park Ranger For advertising information, contact your Herald-Mail Media South Mountain Fort Frederick sales representative or call 301-791-7177. Recreation Area State Park Complex Park Office 301-791-4767 Duty Ranger 443-805-1759 © 2021 Herald-Mail Media All rights reserved by copyright. This book or parts For 24-Hour Assistance or to Report a Violation, thereof may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Call the Natural Resources Police The cover, design, format and layout of this publication 410-260-8888 OR 1-800-825-7275 are trademarks of Herald-Mail Media. For additional copies, call 301-791-4767. THE NATURAL RESOURCES POLICE IS THE PRIMARY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY FOR MARYLAND STATE PARKS. EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 5
EXPLORE LEAVE NO TRACE LEAVE NO TRACE Enjoy the outdoors and Maryland State Parks responsibly PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS • Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies. • Campfires are prohibited at Annapolis Rock. At all other Call 800-825-PARK or 911 if you have an emergency. designated campsites, use established fire rings. • Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. • Keep fires small. • Be aware of hunters. Hunting is heaviest from • Use only timber found on the ground; late September through January, and April through May. do not cut live vegetation. Wear bright-colored clothing during hunting seasons. • Burn all wood or coals to ash, put out campfires completely, TRAVEL AND CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES then scatter cool ashes. • Stay on designated trails and camp only on RESPECT WILDLIFE designated campsites. • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow, DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY approach or feed. • Pack-it-in, pack-it-out. There are no trash cans • Store food and trash securely. Black bears frequent in Maryland State Parks. South Mountain. Hang food in bear bags. • Deposit solid human waste at campground privies, • Control your pets. Dogs must be leashed. or in 8-inch deep cat holes. BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS • Dispense liquid waste (urine, dishwater) at least • Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. 200 feet away from springs and streams. Avoid raising your voice and (making) loud noises. • Trash should not be placed in privies. • Be courteous. Yield to other trail users. • Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. • Repackage food to minimize waste. APPALACHIAN TRAIL SPECIFICS • Travel in small groups. Avoid groups larger than LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND 10 participants for overnight trips, and groups larger than • Preserve the past. Examine—but do not touch—cultural 25 participants for day trips. or historic structures or artifacts. • Use a map. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club’s Maps 5 and • Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them. 6 are ideal for traveling the Maryland portion of the A.T. Copies • Avoid introducing and/or transporting non-native species. can be purchased at Greenbrier and Washington Monument • Avoid building structures, furniture or state parks. digging trenches. • Camping is allowed only at designated trail shelters and campgrounds. • The Appalachian Trail is for foot traffic only. • Follow official blazes. The A.T. is marked by white blazes, side trails by blue. Avoid bushwhacking your own trail or following abandoned roads. • Shelters and campsites are intended for backpackers or hikers. • Maximum of six people per regular campsite. • Maximum of 10 people per group campsite. • Overnight hikers will be limited to a maximum two-night stay at any shelter/campsite area. Learn more at lnt.org. 6 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE APPALACHIAN TRAIL DON’T MISS THESE A.T. POINTS OF INTEREST (Distances in miles between features) Mason-Dixon Line 0.2 Pen-Mar Park 2.9 High Rock 1.8 *Raven Rock Shelter 1.0 MD Route 491 (Raven Rock Hollow) 0.8 Warner Hollow Road 1.5 MD Route 77 1.2 POPULAR A.T. DAY HIKES *Ensign Cowall Shelter 0.2 Amazing Views and Historic Sites Provide MD Route 17 Great Destinations for a Day Hike 4.7 *Pogo Memorial Campground Washington Monument Return Options: Return by same trail or leave a 1.3 (elevation 1,500 feet) second car at Weverton Road (one mile south of Black Rock Access Point: U.S. 40 parking lot, 1/4 mile east Weverton Cliffs on A.T.). 1.0 of Greenbrier. Follow blue-blazed trail from parking Highlights: Weverton Cliffs offers a view of the *Annapolis Rock Campground lot to white-blazed A.T. Turn left to go south Potomac Valley near Harpers Ferry, WV. 1.6 (cross I-70 foot bridge). *Pine Knob Shelter Annapolis Rock (elevation 1,700 feet) Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 3 miles (one way) 0.6 Access Point: U.S. 40 parking lot, 1/4 mile east of Return Options: Return by same trail to U.S. 40 I-70 Footbridge/Route 40 Greenbrier. Follow blue-blazed trail from parking lot or leave a second car at Washington Monument 2.9 to white-blazed A.T. Turn right to go north. State Park. Washington Monument Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 4.4 miles Highlights: The first monument to George Washing- 2.0 (round trip) ton offers views to the east and west. U.S. Route Alternate 40 Return: Return by same trail to U.S. 40. (Turners Gap) Weverton Cliffs (elevation 750 feet) Highlights: Annapolis Rock offers a view of Green- 0.2 Access Point: Gathland State Park brier Lake and the Cumberland Valley. *Dahlgren Backpackers Difficulty: Strenuous • Distance: 6 miles (one way) Campground 0.8 Reno Monument Road APPALACHIAN NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL (Fox’s Gap) 1.0 Explore the Mountain’s Challenging, Scenic Terrain *Rocky Run Shelter 1.8 on this National Treasure of a Trail Lambs Knoll/White Rock 3.2 THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL — a 2,190-mile strength. *Crampton’s Gap Shelter footpath across Appalachian Mountain ridge- Maryland’s 40 miles are considered easy by A.T. 0.4 lines from Georgia to Maine — was envisioned standards, with only a 1,650-foot change in ele- Gathland State Park in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, a forester and vation from the low point at the Potomac River to (Crampton’s Gap) self-styled philosopher. Thousands of volunteers, the high point at High Rock. Following the South 3.7 many legislators and the Civilian Conservation Mountain ridgeline, it offers plenty of challenges *Ed Garvey Shelter Corps made the trail a reality by 1937. Many and impressive scenery. For beginning back- 2.1 hikers use the trail today for short day hikes or packers or those getting in shape, the entire A.T. Weverton Cliffs overnight backpacking adventures, and hundreds in Maryland can be hiked in three or four days, 0.9 tackle the entire journey, which requires exten- with trail shelters and backpacker campgrounds Weverton Road sive planning and incredible physical and mental spaced about a day’s hike apart. 0.5 C&O Canal Towpath HELP FOR THE HIKE To learn more about the A.T. and plan your trek, visit: (east end) 2.6 Appalachian Trail Conservancy appalachiantrail.org C&O Canal Towpath National Park Service (west end) and Footbridge nps.gov/appa to Harpers Ferry Potomac Appalachian Trail Club patc.net *Designated Campsites EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 7
EXPLORE GREENBRIER STATE PARK GREENBRIER STATE PARK Discover the Full Range of Fun, All In One Great Park Located in the Appalachian Mountains, PETS: Pets on leashes are allowed with a portion of the Appalachian Trail in Greenbrier State Park in the passing through the park’s eastern edge, following areas: Greenbrier is a multi-use park offering a • Pets on leashes are allowed in the day- range of recreational opportunities. The use and lake area from the day after manmade freshwater lake offers swim- Labor Day to the day before Memorial ming, sunbathing, boating and fishing Day Weekend. opportunities, and hiking trails meander • Pets on leashes are allowed in the through a variety of wildlife habitats and Cedar and Dogwood camp loops. spectacular views. Picnic tables, grills • Pets on leashes are allowed on and playgrounds are available in the trails outside the day-use and day-use area. lake area (access from outlying parking areas). SWIMMING: A 1,000-foot beach and swim area that gradually reaches a WILDLIFE: The park is home to abun- depth of six feet leaves plenty of shallow dant wildlife. Bring your camera and DAY USE SERVICE CHARGES guide books, but please respect the WEEKEND & HOLIDAY water for children to play in Greenbrier’s DATE WEEKDAY MARYLAND animals. Do not disturb! MARYLAND 44-acre fresh water lake. Lifeguards monitor the beach and swim area daily HUNTING: Greenbrier has a 500-acre October – April $3/vehicle $3/vehicle from Memorial Day through Labor Day. hunting area. A Maryland hunting license and knowledge of the Maryland hunting May & September $3/vehicle $3/person Restrooms, showers and changing rooms seasons are required. There is no hunting Memorial Day – are available. $3/person $5/person on Sundays. The Natural Resources Po- Labor Day Weekend PICNICKING: Greenbrier features lice monitor hunters closely, so be sure Additional $2 for out-of-state residents hundreds of picnic sites with tables and your weapon is unloaded in the safety • Maryland State Park Passport (good at any Maryland State Park): grills. Sites overlook the lake and are zones and near your vehicle. Remember $75*/$100 convenient to restrooms. Rent one of our that hikers may be unaware of hunting seasons. • Gazebos: $106.25 per day, including non-refundable $6.25 four lake-front gazebos for group picnics reservation fee. Gazebos can be reserved by calling — they seat up to ACCESSIBILITY: The Visitor Center 1-888-432-2267 or online at parkreservations.maryland.gov 32 people. and all restrooms in the beach area at Greenbrier State Park are accessible to For Maryland State Park Passport information visit BOATING: Bring your own boat (electric dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands trolling motors only) or rent paddleboats the mobility impaired. The beach plaza *Maryland resident discount; additional fees for out-of-state residents allows easy access to the beach and by the hour during the summer. shower house. Beach wheelchairs are FISHING: With an appropriate Maryland available at no charge on a first-come, fishing license in possession, you can fish for trout, bass or blue gill. Children first-served basis. PLAN YOUR VISIT VISITOR CENTER: Explore exhibits on 15 or younger do not need a fishing • Alcohol is prohibited in the entire park South Mountain’s wildlife, history and license. Free Fishing Days: first two the Appalachian Trail. Park staff will be • Greenbrier is a “Trash-Free Park.” Take your trash home Saturdays in June and July 4. No license happy to answer your questions. The Vis- with you; bring bags and plan accordingly to reduce waste. is required to fish in any of Maryland’s itor Center is open weekdays year round • Bus groups must make prior reservations. Buses are not permitted on fresh waters on and weekends in the spring summer weekends and holidays. these days. and summer. • Greenbrier often fills to capacity on summer weekends and holidays. If the park fills, all additional visitors will be turned away (no exceptions). To ensure entry, all party members are encouraged to arrive at the park early. • Baptisms at Greenbrier Lake are strictly prohibited between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Prior written approval is needed for baptisms at all other times. • Metal detectors are permitted on the sandy beach and in the swimming area only. From the Friday of Memorial Day weekend • Sales • Service/Repairs • Shuttle Service through Labor Day, metal detectors are prohibited from 9 a.m. to dusk. Metal detectors may not be used elsewhere in the park. • Rentals: Bicycles, Canoes & Kayaks Greenbrier State Park • Pedal & Paddle Day Trips c/o South Mountain Recreation Area 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713 | 301-791-4767 • Experience riding a FAT BIKE or ELECTRIC dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/greenbrier.aspx BIKE on the historic C&O Canal trail. 8 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE GREENBRIER STATE PARK TRAIL SYSTEM MAP BARTMAN HILL TRAIL Blaze Color: Light Blue HIT THE TRAILS Distance: 0.6 mile Mountain bikes are welcome on all Greenbrier Difficulty: Strenuous. Steep State Park trails except on the face of the dam, trail connects Visitor Center on a section of un-blazed trail between the to Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Turn left on the A.T. to go Rock Oak Fire Trail (blue) and the dam, and the north or right to go south. Bartman Hill Trail. Bikes are NOT permitted on the Appalachian Trail. BIG RED TRAIL Blaze Color: Red Pets are not allowed within the developed Distance: 4.5 miles areas the day before Memorial Day weekend Difficulty: Strenuous. The through Labor Day. Pets on leashes are longest trail in the park, Big welcome on the trails and on the A.T. Hikers Red is a complete circle with with pets must use Mountain Laurel Road many access points. and Greenbrier Road parking lots May–Sept. CAMP LOOP TRAIL Several Greenbrier trails are in public Blaze Color: Orange hunting lands. The most popular hunting Distance: 1 mile seasons are Sept.–Jan. and April–May. Wear Difficulty: Moderate. Adding a short section of bright colors during these times. the Big Red Trail makes this a 1.5 mile loop. Hilly by the lake. COPPERHEAD TRAIL Blaze Color: Green Distance: 0.4 mile Difficulty: Moderate. Parallels a section of the Big Red Trail. GREEN TRAIL Blaze Color: Green Distance: 0.8 mile Difficulty: Moderate. Loop trail starting at the Visitor Center. Good for beginning hikers. MARKED MILE Blaze Color: White Arrows Distance: 1 mile Difficulty: Easy. Follow white arrows on paved surfaces in the day use area for exactly a mile walk. Starts at the “X” near the Visitor Center. Tollbooth ROCK OAK FIRE TRAIL Blaze Color: Blue Distance: 1.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate. Parallels Snelling Fire Trail. Includes one steep section. SNELLING FIRE TRAIL Blaze Color: Silver Distance: 1 mile Difficulty: Moderate. Fairly flat; steep section in the middle. WATER TANK TRAIL Blaze Color: Yellow Ev Yo ergr Distance: 2.5 miles uth ee Ca n mp Difficulty: Moderate. Runs from Camper Registration Office to the Green Trail. EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 9
EXPLORE GREENBRIER CAMPGROUNDS AND MAP GREENBRIER CAMPGROUND CAMP HOSTS Connect with Family and Nature Camping Under the South Mountain Stars WANTED • Help maintain the park • Make campers feel at home • Help with special events and programs • Have a good time! In exchange for 20 hours of volunteer work per week, camp hosts receive a free campsite with full hook-ups and a sense of community with Greenbrier State Park. Call 301-791-4767 to apply. maryland.gov. Campsite costs range between $26 and $40 per night; Greenbrier features 165 developed dumpsters. Camping is open from early weekend, holiday, non-resident and campsites in a mountain forest setting. April through late October. Pets on leashes electric premiums apply. Alcohol is The campground includes four loops, are permitted in the Cedar and Dogwood prohibited in the campground and each with its own central shower building. loops only. throughout the park. Quiet hours start Each campsite has a driveway, a space Campsites allow for a maximum combined at 10 p.m.; check out is 1 p.m. for trailers or tents, a picnic table, lantern trailer and vehicle length of 30 feet. During the week (Sunday after 1 p.m. holder, and a fire ring. Each campsite can accommodate up to six people. Ash CAMPSITE RESERVATION through Friday before 3 p.m.) visitors are Loop is closest to the lake. Cedar Loop Call 888-432-CAMP between 8 a.m. welcome to tour/preview the Greenbrier includes electric hook-ups. The camp and 8 p.m. Monday–Friday, or reserve a campground after registering their vehicles area has a central dump station and site online anytime at parkreservations. with the Camp Office staff. To Lake il Tra side Lake r a il N Lo o p T Camp Gate W E ASH S BIRCH Speed Limit is 10 MPH in Camp Areas CEDAR Dogwood Campground Restroom Cedar Campground Water Birch Campground Ampitheater Pet-Friendly Ash Campground Parking Camp Host Visitor Center Amphitheater Parking Dump Station Evergreen Youth Camping DOGWOOD Pet-Friendly 10 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE SOUTH MOUNTAIN STATE BATTLEFIELD AND MAP SOUTH MOUNTAIN STATE BATTLEFIELD A Crucial Battle Echoed Through the Mountain Gaps in the Lead-Up to Antietam The Battle of South Mountain was perhaps the most decisive part of Gen. William B. Franklin did not begin an attack by his Union VI Corps until late Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee’s failed first attempt to invade the Union afternoon — a delay that cost the Union a chance at dividing the Confederate — and perhaps one of the most decisive events in the American Civil War. forces. A Confederate victory on northern soil might have compelled Great Britain By nightfall on Sept. 14, 1862, the Maryland Campaign changed for Lee and France to intervene on the South’s behalf, and persuade a war-weary and the Army of Northern Virginia from an offensive incursion to a defensive North to negotiate a peace settlement. A Southern victory might have secured withdrawal. Although the Battle of South Mountain was a Confederate tactical Confederate independence. defeat, the Union’s failure to lead a full-scale attack early in the day allowed Following his victory at 2nd Manassas, Lee’s invasion of the Union (also known Lee to summon reinforcements. On Sept. 15, Lee fell back to Sharpsburg to set as the Maryland Campaign) began Sept. 4, 1862, when a portion of the up a defensive position along Antietam Creek. Army of Northern Virginia crossed the Potomac River near Leesburg, Va., and The first major Civil War battle in Maryland, the Battle of South Mountain, advanced toward Frederick, Md. As the Confederates moved westward across shaped events that resulted in the bloodiest one-day battle in American history South Mountain toward Hagerstown, the Army of the Potomac under Union Gen. when, three days later, on Sept. 17, the armies clashed during the Battle of George B. McClellan left Washington, D.C., in pursuit of the invaders. Antietam. Everything went according to Lee’s plan until Sept. 13, when the Federals Send mail c/o South Mountain Recreation Area reached Frederick and Union soldiers found a copy of Lee’s Special Order No. 21843 National Pike | Boonsboro, MD 21713 191. The famous “Lost Order” revealed that Lee’s army was divided, with only a 301-791-4767 few regiments in Boonsboro watching the mountain gaps. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/southmountainbattlefield.aspx Fought Sept. 14, 1862, the Battle of South Mountain broke out in the Fox’s Gap and Turner’s Gap areas after Confederate gunners opened fire on Federal forces moving toward the base of the mountain. Charges and counter-charges continued here throughout most of the day. Further south at Crampton’s Gap, ORO Visiting Hallowed Ground BO O NSB Washington 1 ael Rd Monument 1 Mich State Park The South Mountain battlefield is a remarkable historic, natural, Frostown Gap Monumen King Rd Fros tow and recreational resource. In addition to being the site of the nR d Milt ers Rd m t Rd Sum first major Civil War battle in Maryland, it includes valuable farm 2 Turner’s Gap 2 Rd and forestland and is home to diverse wildlife. Only here does r abo M the Appalachian National Scenic Trail intersect a major Civil War ye Reno Monume Mt T rsv nt Rd Old Hager ille battlefield. The battlefield also serves as a shrine to the memory Fox Rd d G of the approximately 6,100 soldiers who were killed, wounded and 3 ll R 3 ap R 17 Kno Fox’s Gap s town missing that day. d r Rd b’s va ol i Lam B A large portion of the battlefield is privately owned. Please respect 67 ALT 40 Rd the property rights and privacy of our friends and neighbors when Marker Rd touring the battlefield. OWN MIDDLET Battlefield preservation is an ongoing, expensive process. untain Churc Mo h Rd Two-thirds of the battlefield remains unprotected. Assistance is Ho lte needed to prevent encroaching development from forever snuffing rR d Old Middletown out this unique landscape. To learn more about how to help save the 17 battlefield, call the South Mountain State Battlefield office at 301- Rd 432-8065 or visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Townsend Rd Arnoldstown Rd vil le tts website. ki Mtn Church Rd Rd Gathland r State Park Bu 4 4 Crampton’s Gap Gapland Rd Gap SOUTH MOUNTAIN STATE BATTLEFIELD lan Old Middl dR State Parks U.S. Highway d Bro State Highway ad R South Mountain VILLE BURKIT TS un State Park POINTS OF INTEREST Cities/Towns State Road etown Rd Rd Appalachian Trail Parking 351 383 Miles 17 0 1.25 2.5 5 2 Turner’s Gap 1 Washington Monument State Park A major thoroughfare in the area during the 4 Crampton’s Gap The Washington Monument Visitors Center Civil War, the National Road crosses the 3 Fox’s Gap (Gathland State Park) features exhibits covering the history of the mountain here, at one of the three major Wayside exhibits discuss the battle in this Two museums explore the literary nation’s first completed monument to honor gaps involved in the battle. The Mountain area. Monuments dedicated to the men who career of George Alfred Townsend, War George Washington, a summary of the 1862 House hugs the road and was a focal fought here include two devoted to generals Correspondents, and the Battle of South Maryland Campaign, and a fiber-optic map point during the battle. It still operates as killed during the battle: Union Major General Mountain. Interpretive wayside exhibits presenting an overview of the Battle of a restaurant today (South Mountain Inn). Jesse Reno, commander of the Ninth Army highlight points of interest from the South Mountain. Visit the monument itself, Wayside exhibits explain the battle around Corps, and Confederate Brigadier General battle. The War Correspondents Memorial, which was used as a Union signal station the gap, where the famous Iron Brigade Samuel Garland, commander of a North constructed by Townsend after the war, during the Civil War. earned its name. Carolinian brigade. stands at the park entrance. EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 11
EXPLORE GATHLAND STATE PARK GATHLAND STATE PARK Nature and Architecture Combine in Mountain Estate Honoring Civil War Correspondents While researching his novel, Katy of Catoctin, George Alfred Townsend — the Civil War’s youngest field correspondent and one of late-19th century America’s most important journalists and novelists — became captivated by beautiful Crampton’s Gap, site of a September 1862 Civil War battle. He purchased 100 acres on the ridge of South Mountain and built his estate. Townsend often wrote under the pen name “GATH,” which he derived from adding an “H” to his initials “G.A.T.,” and the estate is now Gathland’s pavilion is available for reservation by calling 888-432- Gathland State Park. CAMP or visiting parkreservations.maryland.gov. Reservation cost During the Civil War, Townsend reported on the events from the is $76.36 per day. Alcohol permits are available for this pavilion Union side. He covered the Peninsular Campaign in 1862, then and are available through the reservation service for $35. lectured in Europe before returning to report on the war’s end. A popular syndicated columnist and novelist, Townsend fashioned The Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes through himself as a Renaissance man and was an unabashed self- Gathland State Park. You can hike the A.T. from Maine to Georgia promoter. Race horses, pocket knives, a line of cigars as well as a or for just a few miles. If you are planning an overnight backpack post office all bore his pseudonym. outing, you can park at Gathland State Park for a few days. In establishing his estate, he included a monument to honor war correspondents, artists and photographers. The War Gathland State Park Send mail Correspondents Arch — a monument 50 feet high and 40 c/o South Mountain The museums are open in spring, feet across built in 1896 — is a national historic monument summer and fall, and by request. Recreation Area administered and maintained by the National Park Service. Two 900 Arnoldstown Road 21843 National Pike buildings from Townsend’s estate survive and now serve as Jefferson, MD 21755 Boonsboro, MD 21713 Gathland State Park’s museum. The museum features many 301-791-4767 artifacts from Townsend’s life, career and estate, as well as dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/ artifacts from the Battle of South Mountain. Pages/western/gathland.aspx 12 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE WASHINGTON MONUMENT STATE PARK WASHINGTON MONUMENT STATE PARK A Monument to Our First President Provides Stunning Views and an Activity-Packed Park In 1827, the citizens of Boonsboro became the first to complete a monument in honor of George Washington. According to a period newspaper account, on July 4, 1827, at 7 a.m., most of PHOTO BY: SCOTT CANTNER Boonsboro's 500 inhabitants assembled at the public square. Behind the Stars and Stripes and stepping spiritedly to the music of a fife and drum corps, they marched two miles up the mountain to the monument site. The citizens worked until noon and then held a dedication ceremony and lunch. They resumed work and by 4 p.m. the monument stood 15 feet high on a 54-foot circular base. The day ended with the reading of the Declaration of Independence and a three-round salute fired by three Revolutionary War veterans. The workers returned that September to complete the monument, at a finished height of 30 feet. During the Civil War, the Union Army pressed the monument into service as a signal tower. The monument fell into disrepair, and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) restored it in 1936. FEES AND RESERVATIONS Visitors today can take in panoramic views of four states from Entrance Fee: $2* Maryland Park Passport: $75* the top of Washington Monument, which anchors a park featuring *Maryland Resident Discount • Additional fees for hiking, picnicking, camping, bird watching, and a museum. Most of out-of-state residents the Washington Monument's hiking trail is part of the Appalachian Fort Necessity Picnic Shelter $61.36/day (Shelter capacity: 55) National Scenic Trail. Hikers planning an overnight backpack outing Youth Group Camping Areas: No charge with MPS Youth Group Pass can park at Washington Monument State Park for a few days To reserve campsites or shelters, call 888-432-CAMP or visit (park in the lower lot only and sign the hiker log book). Day-hikers parkreservations.maryland.gov. Alcoholic permits are available for this can trek north for 3 miles to Greenbrier State Park or go south to shelter and are available through the reservation service for $35. South Mountain State Battlefield and Gathland State Park. Pets on Call the park office at 301-791-4767 for help planning your visit. leashes are welcome on the Appalachian Trail and in Washington Monument State Park. Washington Monument State Park Picnic sites with tables and grills are available, and families or The museum is open in spring, summer and fall, and by request groups can rent one of the two pavilions. The park includes a 6620 Zittlestown Road | Middletown, MD 21769 multi-purpose field for pick-up games and playground for children. 301-791-4767 The monument is an ideal site for spotting migratory birds like dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/washington.aspx hawks, eagles and falcons; peak time is mid-September. The monument museum features historical artifacts related to the Send mail c/o South Mountain Recreation Area history of Washington Monument and the Battle of South Mountain. 21843 National Pike | Boonsboro, MD 21713 Washington Monument PHOTO BY: BILL WANTZ ad Museum Park ent Ro Road Monum Park Wash ingto Office n Mo nume nt Ro a d d own Roa Private Residence Zittlest Overnight N Hiker’s Parking W E S Path to Playground/Field Trail Monument Picnic Area Appalachian Trail Youth Group Site 1 Parking Parking Lot Paved Youth Group Site 2 Picnic Pavilion Building Youth Group Site 3 Restroom Road Youth Group Site 4 EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 13
Pennsylvania Pe 418 n 64 M 60 ar Rd 418 High Rock Rd d ck Ro e 11 gh Pik Rock R Hi 550 ar rsh M 60 n Ma Raven Pe 81 Raven Rock Le Shelter ite 64 rsb ur Raven Rock Pennsylvania Av g e Sm i th 491 60 sb 62 ur g Rd e 58 Av BUURRGG Catoctin ac l Rd m MITHSSB SSM Mountain to oo 40 Po Park Sch 144 uk TOWN 66 64 H AG ERS 64 uira Jefferson Blvd Q 77 11 Ensign Cowall Shelter Wolfsville Rd Ave inia Virg Dr Rd 65 lls r ALT Fa 40 Cunningham ye t al 632 40 me Falls State Park rys Pogo C ttle 66 Backpacker Sto 70 camp 17 White O ak Rd Wolfsv ille Black Rock Rd d eR lk Rd Wolf Frederick Annapolis Rock Loy 65 40 Municipal nt Wa a Forest 68 na Le Pleas Mt Mt Len San M a Rd ar Rd Pine Knob 17 Harp 66 Greenbrier Shelter d State Park H i ll eR Rd Mountain Laurel Rd vill lfs 68 ALT Wo Ke 40 ad le Rd 65 Rd Rd n 70 ai nt Ca na ou d M dstone aH ro
Hi o i ll D nsb d Gr Boo r tR Mo num en ent Rd Ha u m rm ORO on VILLE B O O NSB M ony M YERS Rd Washington Monument 34 State Park n 40 to M King Rd ing ye Antietam sh rsv National Dahlgren Wa ille Backpacker Camp Rd Battlefield Reno Monument Rd Fox Ga 17 Po Rocky Run Gambrill p Rd rte Shelter d State Park d rR r st oa va URG ll R K no B o li b’s ow SH A RPSB 67 Lam n ALT Marker Rd Rd 40 Bu rn sid White Rocks eB ri d TOWN Mt. MID DLE ge Br 70 Bidle Rd Rd untain Churc Mo h Rd RICK iar R d Ho lte FR EDE h Rd Rd rR Marker Tr Qu d eb eg Rd Rd o ec n S ch Rd ove tai 17 oo d in Churc un R lR d ut Gr ds o Mo oo Arnoldstown cW Chestn Treg ni Mounta Rd c Crampton’s Gap Pi Shelter Rd Gathland r r y Rd ove State Park rs Fe t Gr stnu Harpe Che 180 Bro ILLE ad R un Old Middl C&O Canal BURKITTSV 15 Rd i ke nP Historical rso Ga 383 ffe Je etown Rd National pla n dR Park d Rd y 17 rr 351 Fe 67 Bro ers ad R un Rd arp H 180 15 Ed Garvey Shelter Rd 340 Maryland Parking rton Harpers Ferry Rd ne ri National N State Parks State Highway Ho Weve Historical Park Weverton Cliffs South Mountain AT Points of State Park Interest Weverton Rd W E 464 Cities/Towns State Road 180 s Rd 464 Appalachian Trail Interstate Highway ock t of R West Poin S Shelters U.S. Highway 351 17 85 Virginia Miles Virginia 0 1.25 2.5 5 C&O C ANAL
EXPLORE SOUTH MOUNTAIN STATE PARK SOUTH MOUNTAIN STATE PARK Explore a Landscape Teeming with Wildlife, Scenic Vistas and History South Mountain State Park is a 40-mile-long multi-use state park disturb! South Mountain is also along the Eastern Flyway, a weaving along the South Mountain ridge from the Pennsylvania migration route for hawks, eagles and owls. line to the Potomac River. The park has no distinguishable Maryland’s portion of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail is situated along the ridge top of South Mountain State Park. The boundary or entrance facility but is accessible at a number of A.T. is perfect for a variety of hikes and experience levels: You locations. Most of the park is only accessible by foot. can make a simple day hike, an overnight backpack trip or a South Mountain State Park’s 13,000-acre forest is home to a multi-night excursion part of your South Mountain adventure. Use a detailed Appalachian Trail map to plan your outing, available wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, meadow voles, for purchase at Greenbrier State Park. South Mountain features whitetail deer, raccoons, rat snakes and opossums. Please be several impressive scenic vistas, including High Rock, Black respectful to the wildlife; keep your distance and do not Rock, Annapolis Rock, White Rock and Weverton Cliffs, which are all accessible from the A.T. WE RENT SOLUTIONS In addition to its natural significance, South Mountain has been influenced by several historic figures, including General Edward Braddock, George Washington, William McKinley, RU $2 OFF 20 lb. Refill PROPANE Rutherford B. Hayes, Robert E. Lee, George B. McClellan, and George Alfred Townsend. READY! Exp. 9/30/21 South Mountain State Park Home • Industrial • Contractors PROPANE REFILLS The South Mountain State Park Office Mon-Sat 7AM-5:30PM is located at Greenbrier State Park. • Motor Homes 5 Locations HAGERSTOWN FREDERICK Send mail c/o South Mountain Recreation Area • Gas Grill Tanks Sharpsburg Pike 36 Thomas Johnson Dr. 21843 National Pike | Boonsboro, MD 21713 240-420-0200 301-663-9200 • Heater Tanks 301-791-4767 dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/ 877-RU-RENTS (787-3687) rentalsunlimited.com western/southmountain.aspx 16 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE HUNTING AND HUNTING LANDS MAPS HUNTING Observe Safety Zones and Respect Private Property South Mountain State Park includes Black Rock Hunting Lands, Gathland Hunting Lands and Lambs Knoll Hunting Lands. A Maryland hunting license and knowledge of the Maryland hunting seasons are required. THERE IS NO HUNT- ING ON SUNDAYS. Access is limited, so be prepared to hike long distances. To improve your hunting experience, scout out the areas prior to hunting season. You may use the Appalachian Trail to access the hunting areas, but the Appa- lachian Trail Corridor is a non-hunting area. You cannot hunt until you are 150 yards away from the Trail in either direction. Hunting is not permitted on Federal land. Make sure your weapon is unloaded in the safety zones and also while hiking to your destination through non-hunting areas. Respect private property. Off-road motorized vehicle use is strictly prohibited. Remember that many hikers using the A.T. may be unaware of hunting sea- sons. Boundaries are marked with yellow paint. A yellow line indicates you are looking into state property; a yellow dot indicates you are looking into private property. To learn more about hunting on public lands, hunting licenses and education programs, visit dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/Pages/default.aspx For hunting maps of South Mountain Recreation Area, call 301-791-4767 RD OWN N AVE 66 ® 17 APPLET RD PADE ER R KING RD LS D MOS L FAL STA E AV CRY AN IC BUCK 66 BL SKIN PU CT RE REP UB L ICA N AVE WN RD DR CLEVELANDTO LS BLOSORAN FAL SO GE TAL MOSER RD M CT P RD YS X GA CR FO SAFETY RENO MONUMENT RD ROYS LN ZONE RENO MONUM MO R RENO ENT RD NU ENO LT MEN PO TR N DS D VVIL LE R E Y RD D D V A LL R RD FE R BLACK ROCK SP COLD REEDE WOL ANT RING PLEAS RD L OY AMOS TROY LAMBS KNOLL LN REN FOX G A RF OM GAP ON IE L UM RD RD D HUNTING EN 66 DR GA TR LLS D L FA RF E LD RD I STA HUNTING CRY JUG TOW D ER NR D LIN BOLIVAR CT NK AREA JOH AR RD AREA BOLIV RD LFE 66 WO D CARTER WAY LO Y reek R NE MT aC S LN SAFETY KLI AE Aetn TN DR RT JOHN AR BE ZONE Mt RO LE D 17 OO OT OT VIEW Harman Branch OO TER L Dry R un WAL ED RD R Mt Ae 17 LL tna C HA reek a Creek Aetn RD RK Mt MT AE EY PA CRYSTAL FALLS DR T BAIL RD NA 66 MT AET DR NA RD RD OINT SMITH C RD A HIGHP BOLIV PARK HALL ADEMY DR AR RD LN AC A DEMY LN GE IE OG AS BO LIN DR ek Cre er av Be Y RD RR LOY W OL F E RD BE SP reek MART RA IN R rC LOCUST SAFETY ZONE D ve a Be 66 GROVE RD DR Safety Sa fe ty Zone Zone LS FAL SI NES TAL HANNAH LN YS LN CR ES BIDL LN W Dry R un HIT RD VIOLET RD CK BL EO AC AK N RD RO KR RD RTI OW OC MA BLA MEAD CK R O KL BLACK R " N OCK RD K RD BAGTOWN KR D C E RD ENBURG HOLLOW RD C K RO HA W OLF BLAC YES BLAC KR RD MAR L OY WO BL KER OC AC BRAND KR LF K RO VI RD LL S CK D 70 RD D ER TTL EMEYER RD RIDEN STOTTLEMYER RD OUR R D MOUNTAIN ySAFETY Zone RD R CHURCH TD Safety Safettty Zo ne ZONE 17 S STO RE W OL LE RD AC F S V IL ILD RD CH VE RO CRYSTAL FALLS G LK RD W IN ST LL RD DR WA DO NTA CU SAN T RD W ILD CAT RD LO MEA OU PLEA HARP HI M YER D OG RD ME TLE DR OT ST FE RD 67 L Y WO 40 LO MAIN RUBLE RD D ST MARKER RD ER QUEBEC D BL SCHOOL R RD RU EA WILDCAT eek RD Little Catoctin Cr RD STAL FALLS DR ST ALK AY TW P HILL RD DW AN ER D EW MT AS MOUNTAIN CHURCH PLE LAN IN AY R LE GC NA D HAR WOO T CRY RD D OLD TR D YR OL LEY D RD AR R A RD RD LN NM RKER SA S TE MT EA RD MA LENA T WALK RD PLEASAN SAN MA RIER RD R RD 40 GR EEN BENT WILLO W RD GREENB EL RD BRIE RD LAUR R 70 TAIN MOUN ! 67 STONE ROW LN Annapolis RU EAR N PL Rock CL SAFETY OO DS RD SAFETY ZONE NIC W PIC Safety S ZONEZone affe tty y Zo n ARNOLDTOWN RD SC VE RA LR ARNO D LDTOW D N RD KR LAUREL RD " TW AL TOWNSEND RD CHUR TAIN CH RD AN AS P LE MOUN MOUNTAIN TO W NS EN D 40 RD RD K EA DLE R DAY D EAST ER KE AD 70 RD LE RD DSTONE RUN CA NA DA 17 P HIL GA LR CT IN D RD GR IN GREENBRIER SP TA GUARD CT UN 40 MO RO USGS TNM - National Structures Dataset; USGS TNM - National Transportation Dataset; TomTom Commercial Roads; U.S. Census Bureau - TI GER/Line; USGS TNM - National Boundaries Dataset; USGS TNM - Geographic Names Information System; BO NS USGS TNM - National Hydrography Dataset O BO EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 17
EXPLORE FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK The centerpiece of Fort Frederick State Park is a unique stone fort that Historical Interpretation and Reenactor Events are all served as Maryland’s frontier defense during the French and Indian tentative as of the date of this publication. Please see our War. Built in 1756, the Fort’s stone wall and two barracks have been website for an up-to-date Calendar of Events. restored to their 1758 appearance. Historic exhibits are in the Fort, barracks, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum, and Visitor Center. The fort barracks are open seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on the weekends in the spring and fall, when staff and volunteers dress in period clothing and occupy the fort, demonstrating daily life in the 18th century. The 585-acre park borders the Potomac River and The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal passes through the park. The park also features a boat launch, campsites, camp store, fishing, flat water canoeing, hiking trails, a playground, a picnic area and small pavilion. Group tours are available seasonally. Facility Service Charge: $3 per vehicle for MD residents. $5 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors. Please pay at one of the honor boxes located in the picnic area or the store parking lot near the fort. You may also pay at the Visitor Center or Captain Wort’s Store. General Park Hours: April 1-October 31 (8 a.m.-Sunset) November 1-March 31 (10 a.m.-Sunset) • Closed: Christmas Day Camping: Family camping at Fort Frederick State Park is available on 29 sites. Sites include: a picnic pad with stone dust surface; a picnic table; a fire ring with grilling grate attached; a lantern post with small wooden countertop area. There are no electric sites, and the restrooms in the vicinity are portable toilets. Flush toilets are located near Capt. Wort’s Sutlery and are available throughout your stay. Tent camping is available April through October. Camping is available year round for self-contained units. Family campsites may be reserved through the reservation system, however walk-ins are also welcome on a first-come first-served basis. ALL CAMPING EQUIPMENT MUST BE PLACED ON THE STONE DUST PAD. Four youth group campsites are available for organized youth groups aged 16 and younger. These sites must be reserved either online or through the park office. To obtain a two-year youth group pass, please apply online at: dnr.maryland.gov and search “youth group pass.” To make pavilion or youth group camping reservations, call Park Reservations at 1-888-432-2267. Or make your reservation on the internet: parkreservations.maryland.gov Fort Frederick State Park Potomac River Family Camping Potomac River Steps to River located behind Sites # 2 & 8 Steps to River for Youth Groups Site # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Youth Group Camping Area Campground Road to Youth Group Camping Area Site # 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 Y1 Y2 Woods Campground Road Woods Woods Y4 Y3 Beaver Pond Area reserved for Youth Groups Only Canal Bridge Williamsport, MD C & O Canal Towpath Trail Hancock, MD Map Not to Scale - Denotes Handicapped Site Big Pool Lake - Porta Pots (April - October) 18 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
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EXPLORE FORT FREDERICK WALKING TOUR FORT FREDERICK WALKING TOUR 1. Stone Wall ~ This wall is the fort’s main defense. It is built of local rock and is three layers thick. The outside layer is mainly limestone with a rubble layer between. It measures four feet thick at the bottom and tapers to two feet thick at the top. At its highest point, the wall measures roughly 22 feet high. British engineers designed the fort for the Colony of Maryland. As a guide, the engineers used the design of French engineer Sebastian de Vauban. His design was very popular in European forts and was modified for different environments in the colonies. Many American- and English-built forts followed a similar design but were built of logs and earth. Fort Frederick is designed as a large square with four diamond-shaped bastions used for defensive purposes. The wall is made of stone, rather than wood, which allows the fort to be very secure. 2. Fort Gate ~ Large wooden doors are the only entrance to the fort and were closed except when a supply wagon came through. Individuals were allowed to enter through a smaller door known as a wicket gate. This gate allowed the guard to watch people entering the fort. If an enemy was trying to get in, he could be pushed back, the door closed, and block anyone else from entering. The main gate had a row of spikes to discourage anyone from climbing over. 3. West Barracks ~ This building shows the life of the common soldier. Governor Sharpe set up the fort to house 200 men 8. Bastion and Catwalk ~ The catwalk in the fort was built by the easily and 400 if needed. The barracks are large for the 18th Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It is not known what century. Typically, frontier forts did not have two-story buildings, kind of defenses were inside Fort Frederick. There is no proof white clapboard siding, double porches and glass windows. The that there were ever catwalks inside the fort. There is evidence floor plan was open except for a sectioned-off area on each that two of the bastions had earth ramps. The bastion end for camp followers’ living space. The camp followers were defenses allowed soldiers to fire over the wall at attackers. women hired by the army to cook for the officers, do laundry, Each bastion had one six-pound cannon. Bastions improved the sew, clean and do nursing duties. The enlisted men would have fort’s defenses by allowing the artillery to have a broad range done their own cooking in groups of 6-8 men. The Barracks of fire and by putting crossfire on attackers who might attempt were rebuilt in 1975 for the bicentennial. The barracks are to attack the wall. There is some evidence that the northeast open when staff in 18th-century clothes are present. bastion had an earth-covered powder magazine. 4. Governor’s House ~ This building, represented by the stone 9. CCC Museum ~ The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built outline, was the officers’ quarters. Governor Horatio Sharpe this building in the 1930s for the park store and museum. The stayed in this building several times as he supervised the building does not look like any building from the 18th century. construction of Fort Frederick and commanded the fort in Today, it houses exhibits about the CCC. the summer and fall of 1758. The large diamond shape in 10.Captain Wort’s Store and Outbuildings ~ The Civilian the middle of the east wing shows a central chimney with a Conservation Corps (CCC) built these buildings in the 1930s fireplace in each room. It appears there were no fireplaces as the Park Superintendent’s Residence, which now serves in the west wing and could indicate this side was used for as the park store. The outbuildings included a barn, carriage storage. The middle rooms were used as the fort’s office and house and blacksmith shop. officers’ dining area. In May 1757, Wahachey of Keowee (near Clemson, S.C.) and 62 Cherokee Warriors came to the fort. In a meeting held in the Governor’s House, the Cherokee agreed to help Maryland in the fight against the French and their American Indian allies. 5. Parade Ground ~ The parade ground between the fort’s buildings was used for troop inspection, drill and review. The area inside the fort encloses about two acres, a large size for a frontier fort. 6. East Barracks ~ This building and the one across the parade ground were the enlisted men’s quarters. This building now shows officers’ quarters, grand hall, armory, store house, laundry and kitchen on the first floor, which would have been in the Governor’s House historically. The second floor shows other areas, including a hospital and doctor’s quarters, Indian trade good storehouse and timeline museum. 7. Well ~ By building the well inside the fort, the garrison’s water supply could be protected. Since the Potomac River was a half- mile south of the fort, a well supplied the men with water for drinking, cooking and laundry. 20 | EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX
EXPLORE WILLIAMS FAMILY - AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE WALKING TOUR WILLIAMS FAMILY - AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE WALKING TOUR From 1860 until 1911, the fort was owned by the Nathan Williams 8. Other Points of interest: family. The Williamses were free African-Americans. The family Western Maryland Railroad ~ This railroad crossing is part of the had been held as slaves until Nathan’s father, Samuel, purchased former Western Maryland Railroad, and is an active spur line for the family’s freedom in 1826. By 1847, Nathan would purchase CSX today. The Western Maryland Railroad began construction in his wife, Ammy from bondage. The Williamses made a prosperous 1852 but did not reach Big Pool until 1882. It offered passenger farm on the site. In 1876, Nathan was named trustee of “Fort and freight service and was an economic catalyst for local farmers. Frederick Colored School,” which operated off and on until 1909. C&O Canal ~ Construction began in 1828. By 1852, it was Two of Nathan’s children served as teachers for the school. completed from Georgetown to Cumberland, Md. Some of the 1. Visitors’ Center and Kiosk ~ At the visitors’ center, watch an laborers used to build the canal were enslaved people. Tradition orientation movie about the fort‘s history and view an exhibit states it was part of the Underground Railroad. The canal opened about the Williams family. The kiosk located in the parking lot up commerce, trade and travel both east and west. This was features historical information on the fort and the Williams family. accomplished by overcoming the mountains with a series of locks The visitors’ center is near the site of the Charles Williams farm. which raised and lowered canal boats. The Williams’ family would Charles was Nathan William’s son and a school teacher. have been intimately familiar with the canal workers and using the canal as a source of trade. 2. First House Site & Civil War Trails Markers ~ From about 1857 to 1909, the Williams family resided on this site. The Potomac River ~ The river was the original source of trade and restored foundation might be from the kitchen of the house. travel for early settlers. By the 1800s, it was an obstacle to be According to period sources, the house was considered a overcome for north/south trade. Ferries were established along “mansion.” A period image of the house contradicts that the river; the closest being at McCoy’s Ferry and Cherry Run. sentiment as the house appears to have had two stories, no During the Civil War, the river would be the dividing line between porch, and no more than six rooms. The house was destroyed two nations and the front line of that war. Nathan Williams, a by fire in 1909. During the Civil War, Union officers occupied the Virginian by birth, knew and traded with people who lived in house for their quarters, and Ammy Williams cooked for them. Virginia. He did not let the war stop him. He would take goods and cross the river with his wagon and trade with soldiers and civilians 3. Second House Site ~ On this site stood the second home built in the Confederacy. Upon his return to Maryland, he would give by the Williams family. It was built in 1909 and was raised information to Union soldiers stationed around Fort Frederick. by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1934. It was a two-story frame house with a wrap-around porch and had four to eight rooms. 4. Cannon Hole ~ According to Nathan Williams, Union soldiers knocked a hole in the wall in 1861, to fire a cannon through at Confederates across the Potomac River in Virginia. Historical documentation places Union artillery at the fort in 1861 and 1862. In 1931, the Daughters of the American Revolution placed a Confederate Civil War cannon at the hole, it is currently displayed in the Visitors’ Center. 5. Fort Interior ~ Williams took advantage of the ruined walls of the fort and used the area inside for many purposes, including a pig sty, orchard and vineyard. 6. Northwest Bastion / Bank Barn ~ Around 1860, Nathan Williams dismantled the northwest bastion and built a bank barn here, recycling a lot of the wall’s stone in its construction. 7. “Fort Frederick School for Colored’s” ~ In 1876, Nathan Williams was named trustee of the “Fort Frederick School for Colored’s.” This school was the second school built in Washington County for the education of African-American children. The school appears to have been in several buildings and locations, including Charles Williams’ house before the current building was built. The school consisted of three rooms, one classroom and two offices or closets. It has been altered several times during its life span. This building was built about 1899 and used as a school periodically until 1909. Two of Nathan Williams’ children, Charles and Betty, were teachers at this school. The school building was sold by the county in 1914 and became a private residence. EXPLORE 2021 SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA AND FORT FREDERICK STATE PARK COMPLEX | 21
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