Civil War in Allegany County

History: During the Civil War, thousands of United States soldiers were stationed in Cumberland and Allegany County to guard against raids and incursions by Confederate forces. The western terminus of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was located here in Cumberland, the National Road also ran through the area, and most significantly, Cumberland was a major stop on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Because of this location's importance to the Union forces, the railroad became a prime target for Confederate raiders. A large military hospital was also located in Allegany County that housed thousands of wounded and sick soldiers. Cumberland became a major demobilization base after the war.

More to Explore: The Western Maryland Railway station is located on Canal Street. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers daily train rides and specialty theme rides from May to December. The station building is part of the Canal Place Heritage Area, the state’s first Certified Heritage Area, which features plenty of dining and shopping opportunities. In addition to the railway station, visitors can also visit the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s Visitor Center in the station, which features exhibits about working on the canal. A bike ride or walk on the Great Allegheny Passage Rail Trail is an excellent way to enjoy scenic Cumberland.

Photo Credits:

1. "Baltimore Street." Photo courtesy of Allegany County Historical Society.
2. "Campobello, Camp Hill 1863." Photo courtesy of Allegany County Historical Society.