Allegany County Maryland

A Historical Overview of Allegany County, Maryland

Allegany County, Maryland, located in the westernmost part of the state, has a rich history deeply intertwined with early American expansion, transportation, industry, and coal mining. The county was officially established in 1789, carved out from Washington County, and its name is derived from the Allegheny Mountains, which dominate the region.

Early Inhabitants and Settlement

Before European colonization, the region that would become Allegany County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Susquehannock. The area was a strategic location along indigenous trails, which later became key routes for European settlers moving westward.

The first Europeans to explore the region were primarily English, German, and Scotch-Irish settlers in the mid-18th century. The French and Indian War (1754–1763) saw the construction of Fort Cumberland (modern-day Cumberland, Maryland), which played a pivotal role as a British military post. George Washington, who later became the first U.S. president, spent time in the area as a young officer during the war.

Development and Transportation Hub

During the early 19th century, Allegany County became a crucial transportation hub due to its strategic location along the Potomac River. The National Road (now U.S. Route 40), the first major federally funded highway in the U.S., was extended to Cumberland in 1811, making the city a key gateway to the West.

The arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad in the 1840s further cemented Allegany County’s importance in transportation. Cumberland became a major rail center, facilitating commerce and the movement of goods between the East Coast and the expanding western territories. The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal, which reached Cumberland in 1850, provided an additional avenue for trade, particularly for coal shipments.

Industrial Growth and the Coal Industry

Coal mining became the backbone of Allegany County’s economy in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The region is part of the Appalachian coal belt, and its abundant reserves led to a booming industry that fueled industrialization throughout Maryland and beyond. Coal mining towns, such as Frostburg, Lonaconing, and Midland, grew rapidly due to the demand for labor. Immigrants from Ireland, Germany, Italy, and Eastern Europe settled in the area to work in the mines. 

Manufacturing also thrived in the region. Cumberland became known for its glassworks, textiles, and breweries. The Kelly-Springfield Tire Company, one of the earliest tire manufacturers in the U.S., was founded in Cumberland in the late 19th century.

The Civil War and Allegany County

Although Maryland remained in the Union during the Civil War, Allegany County had divided loyalties. The region saw occasional skirmishes, and Confederate raids targeted the B&O Railroad, a vital supply line for Union forces. In 1864, Confederate General Jubal Early’s troops attempted to capture Cumberland but were repelled by Union defenders.

20th Century Decline and Modern Revitalization

As coal production declined in the mid-20th century, Allegany County faced economic struggles. The decline of the railroad industry and the closure of many manufacturing plants further exacerbated the region’s downturn. By the late 20th century, efforts to diversify the economy led to growth in education, tourism, and healthcare.

Frostburg State University, established in 1898 as a teacher’s college, became a key institution in the region, providing education and employment opportunities.

Tourism has also played a role in the county’s economic revival, with attractions such as the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, the Great Allegheny Passage (a rail trail extending from Pittsburgh to Cumberland), and the C&O Canal National Historical Park drawing visitors.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Allegany County remains proud of its heritage. The county hosts historical sites such as the Gordon-Roberts House, Emmanuel Episcopal Church (which contains a tunnel used in the Underground Railroad), and the Thrasher Carriage Museum in Frostburg. The county’s Appalachian culture is reflected in its music, arts, and local traditions.

Conclusion

Allegany County has evolved from a frontier outpost to an industrial powerhouse and, more recently, a region focused on heritage tourism and education. While the decline of heavy industry presented challenges, the county continues to embrace its historical significance and natural beauty as part of its economic and cultural identity.

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