Garrett County Maryland

A Historical Overview of Garrett County, Maryland 

Garrett County, located in the westernmost part of Maryland, is known for its mountainous terrain, rich natural resources, and deep historical roots. Established in 1872, it was the last county formed in Maryland. With a history tied to Indigenous cultures, European settlement, railroads, coal mining, and tourism, Garrett County has played an essential role in Maryland’s development while maintaining its rugged and scenic Appalachian character.

Pre-Colonial and Indigenous History (Before 1700s)

Before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples inhabited the region for thousands of years. The area was home to Algonquian-speaking tribes, including the Shawnee and Susquehannock, who relied on the dense forests, rivers, and wildlife for survival.

  • The Youghiogheny River and Deep Creek Lake were important travel and trade routes for Indigenous groups.
  • Seasonal hunting camps were established in the Appalachian Mountains.
  • By the mid-1700s, Indigenous populations declined due to European expansion, disease, and warfare.

Colonial Exploration and Settlement (1700s–1800s)

Early European Exploration

  • European exploration of western Maryland began in the 1730s and 1740s, led by fur traders and land speculators.
  • The rugged mountains made settlement slow compared to Maryland’s coastal and central regions.

French and Indian War (1754–1763)

Garrett County was part of the contested frontier during the French and Indian War.

  • Fort Cumberland (to the east) served as a British military outpost against the French and their Native American allies.
  • General Braddock’s Road, one of the first major roads through the region, was built during this time for military use.

Early Settlement and Agriculture

By the late 1700s and early 1800s, European settlers, mainly German, Scots-Irish, and English families, arrived in what would become Garrett County.

  • Settlers cleared land for small-scale farming, hunting, and logging.
  • The harsh winters and mountainous terrain made large-scale farming difficult.

Formation of Garrett County (1872)

Before 1872, the land that now makes up Garrett County was part of Allegany County.

  • The county was officially formed on November 4, 1872, and named after John Work Garrett, the president of the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad.
  • The creation of the county was largely driven by economic and political interests, particularly those tied to railroads and coal mining.

19th Century: Railroads, Industry, and Growth

The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad (1850s–1900s)

The arrival of the B&O Railroad in the 1850s transformed Garrett County’s economy.

  • The railroad connected the county to Baltimore and Pittsburgh, allowing for increased trade and travel.
  • Towns like Oakland (the county seat), Grantsville, and Friendsville grew around the railroad stops.
  • The B&O Railroad also brought tourism, as wealthy city residents traveled to Garrett County’s cool mountain resorts to escape the summer heat.

Coal Mining and Timber Industry

  • Coal deposits in the county led to the rise of mining operations, attracting laborers from Ireland, Germany, and Eastern Europe.
  • Logging became a major industry, as vast forests provided timber for railroads, construction, and paper mills.
  • The region’s rivers were used to float logs downstream to sawmills and markets.

The Civil War (1861–1865)

  • Though no major battles were fought in Garrett County, the region was divided in its loyalties.
  • The B&O Railroad was a key Union supply line, making it a target for Confederate raids.
  • Some residents sympathized with the Confederacy, while others remained loyal to the Union.

20th Century: Tourism, Conservation, and Economic Shifts

Rise of Mountain Resorts and Deep Creek Lake (1920s–1950s)

Garrett County’s natural beauty and cooler climate made it a popular destination for wealthy vacationers from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh.

  • The Deep Creek Lake Dam was completed in 1925, creating Maryland’s largest freshwater lake.
  • The lake became a major attraction for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
  • State parks and conservation efforts expanded, including the creation of Swallow Falls State Park and Big Run State Park.

Decline of Coal and Logging Industries (1950s–1970s)

  • The coal industry declined as demand decreased and resources were depleted.
  • Deforestation led to conservation efforts, limiting logging operations.
  • Many former mining and logging towns experienced population declines.

Growth of Modern Tourism and Outdoor Recreation (1980s–Present)

  • Deep Creek Lake, Wisp Ski Resort, and state parks became the economic backbone of the county.
  • Winter sports and eco-tourism attracted new visitors.
  • The county focused on preserving historical landmarks and promoting Appalachian heritage.

Garrett County Today: A Balance of History and Nature

Today, Garrett County remains one of Maryland’s most unique and scenic regions.

  • Tourism is the main industry, with visitors coming for skiing, hiking, and boating.
  • Historic towns like Oakland and Grantsville maintain their 19th-century charm.
  • Efforts to preserve the county’s forests, rivers, and mountains have made it a leader in conservation and sustainable tourism.

Conclusion

Garrett County’s history is one of frontier resilience, economic transformation, and environmental preservation. From its Indigenous roots and early European settlements to its boom in railroads, coal, and timber, and its modern focus on tourism and conservation, the county has evolved while keeping its Appalachian heritage alive.

Thank you for visiting our website! We appreciate your time and support. Before you go, check out our exclusive Garrett County MD Flag Tumbler—a perfect way to show off your Maryland pride while keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature.

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