Heritage Area Themes

The overarching theme in the Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area (MMGTW) is Garrett County's relationship to the opening and development of America's western frontier in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, where in fact, Garrett County played a pivotial part in our country's Gateway to the West. Several primary themes were developed including, transportation, cultural uniqueness, man & nature, and historic recreation you can discover more about our themes below and uncover sites, museums and attractions that help define our heritage. Read more about our Heritage Area themes.

Historic Transportation

Various forms of transportation included railroads, waterways, and the historic National Road, which became America's first federally funded highway in 1811. The B&O Railroad began transporting folks to Western Maryland in the early 1850's. By trail, rail, or road, countless visitors have passed through Garrett County. In 1755, General Braddock and a young de camp aide George Washington improved an existing trail known as Nemacolin's Path for Bristish troops of the French and Indian war. Braddock's Road was overlaid by the National Road.

In the late 19th century, the B&O Railroad transported thousands to grand summer resorts before the automobile became more fashionable. The first notable road trips were made by a young group of inventors, which called themselves the Vagabonds and camped at Swallow Falls in the summer of 1921. The Vagabonds were made of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs. Garrett County also saw the largest public worker strike in 1970, which was carried out by the county roadworkers. 

Photo Credit: Bob Carney

Historic Recreation

Our natural beauty and recreational resources have inspired travelers from all walks of life including U.S. Presidents and other prominent figures to find adventure like a hunting or fishing expedition or just to enjoy a respite in the area's natural beauty. 

Photo Courtesy of Garrett County Historical Society, Leo Beachy Collection

Cultural Uniqueness

Several destinations throughout the Heritage Area preserve the traditions of those who settled here and continue to impact the region to this day. Take a long drive along the Barn Quilt Trial to discover quilt squares hung as works of art throughout Garrett County's farmland. Experience a dairy farm or horse drawn carriage, or even take a sleigh ride through our local communities. 

Significant sites include historic cabins at Spruce Forest Artisan Village, which are now open as artists' studios. Stanton's Mill is also there, an over 200-year-old grist mill in operation. Visit the Drane House, likely the oldest standing structure in Garrett County, and the Meshach Browning History Center which interprets early pioneer life. 

Photo Credit: Tim Jacobsen

Man and Nature

The region's natural resources and agricultural legacy are on display as you participate in farm tours, gaze upon a gushing waterfall or cross the Eastern Continental Divide just like Lewis and Clark did before they embarked upon their landmark expedition. Garrett County is home to eight state parks and two sprawling state forests that provide extraordinary opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors. Maryland's tallest waterfall is here, as well as its smallest state park. 

There is a subarctic swamp in Cranesville which provides a glimpse of the unique plant and animal species that are remnants of the last ice age. Across the rolling hills, you will find a patchwork of agricultural history. Learn about another way of life by visiting working farms and enjoy locally grown products straight from the land that you will not find anywhere else.

Photo Credit: Bob Carney