New Windsor

History: When the Confederates invaded the North in 1863, the Federal cavalry hunted Confederate Gen. J.E.B. Stuart. On June 29, the exhausted men and horses passed through New Windsor on their way to Westminster and found a beautiful scene. One New York cavalryman wrote, "The moon shined beautifully, and as we looked over the place so still, it reminded me of some moonlight picture. I think it is the prettiest place I ever saw." That same night, Union VI Corps bivouacked near New Windsor after a grueling 26-mile march from New Market. Lt. George Bicknell also wrote about the beautiful countryside with a modern school house - New Windsor College.

More to Explore: Stay in a local bed and breakfast and check out the village by moonlight for yourself. It just may be the prettiest place you ever saw. In New Windsor, you will find Strawbridge Shrine, a replica of a 1760 Methodist meeting house, believed to be the first in the nation and home of the first American convert. Nearby is the county seat of Westminster, with plenty of amenities and visitor services.

Photo Credits:

1. “Restaurant in New Windsor.” Photo courtesy of Maryland Office of Tourism Development.
2. “New Windsor Streetscape.” Photo courtesy of Maryland Office of Tourism Development.
3. “New Windsor Museum.” Photo courtesy of Maryland Office of Tourism Development.