Ellicott's Mills

History: The prosperous community that had developed around the Ellicott family gristmills and ironworks exceeded a population of 2,000 by the start of the Civil War. Most who lived and worked here were Union supporters, but being the border state that Maryland was, there were many who sympathized with the Confederacy. Those who remained loyal to the Union joined the First Maryland Infantry. In order to protect strategic points along the Howard Country railroads, Union troops were stationed along the Thomas Viaduct located in Elkridge, and the B&O Railroad station for the remainder of the war.

More to Explore: Ellicott's Mills, now Ellicott City, has become a beautiful historic district filled with antique shops, boutiques, restaurants, museums, and other notable attractions. Explore the beauty of the surrounding area by visiting Patapsco Valley State Park, where you can take a hike, bike ride, or enjoy a BBQ with the family. Don't forget to stop by the B&O Railroad Museum during your afternoon, and if you enjoy hauntings or spooky tales, take a guided walking ghost tour in the evening. Catch a performance of the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company outdoors in the ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute in the summer time. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in Ellicott City.

Photo Credits:

1. “A playful illustration depicting the attack on Helltown.” Courtesy of Carole Zink.
2. “A Resident with Confederate Sympathies.” Courtesy of Howard County Historical Society.