GENERAL INFORMATION

Washington County, Maryland is rich in history. Named after America’s first president George Washington, Washington County was created in 1776. This was the first County in the United States to do this. As of now, near 30 counties use the name “Washington County” in other states.

While Washington County has many hills and is a mountainous area, it is best known in Maryland for its agricultural products and livestock. It is the number one fruit and nut producer in Maryland. Washington County also produces dairy products. Some of the agricultural other then fruit that Washington County grows are: corn, wheat, oats, clover, and barely.

Hagerstown played a part in the Civil War. Hagerstown did not have plantations so they voted against secession. But because of the need for food and supplies the town became very prosperous. In 1863, General McCausland of the Confederate army came to Hagerstown and demanded large amounts and clothing. The town has able to supply the money but was unable to supply the clothing demand.

One of Washington County’s biggest attractions is the Antietam National Battlefield. This was the site of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle. In total, 23,381 men died on that day September 17, 1862. The Battlefield is ten miles from Hagerstown. Today, there are re-enactments, monuments, a Visitor Center, and maps at the Battlefield. Also present is the Antietam National Cemetery. Established in 1865, it contains 5037 graves of soldiers.

Washington County’s Boonsboro also was involved in the Civil War. A small battle occurred here and the town was also used to nurse hurt soldiers from The Battle of Antietam. George and William Boone, who were both related to Daniel Boone, founded Boonsboro in 1774.

The town of Williamsport also played a part in Civil War history. General Robert E. Lee held the town briefly before the Battle of Gettysburg. Williamsport gets its name from Otho Holland Williams who founded. The town was also a lively port and a center of commerce.

The History of Washington is not only interesting to the reader, but it also very important to the Civil War. Washington County is a mix of farms, lively historic towns, and rolling hills. The history of Washington County is rich, its landscape is beautiful, and its significance to Maryland is great.



SCHOOL INFORMATION

Please click on the apple below to view area school information.

 

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Please click on the link below to view community information throughout
Washington County directly from the Washington County, Maryland Convention & Visitors Bureau.

http://www.marylandmemories.org/proof/communities.html