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Maryland was once a center of the slave trade: Maryland was one of the thirteen colonies that allowed slavery, and by the mid-18th century, it had become a major center of the domestic slave trade. Maryland slave traders sold enslaved people to plantation owners in other southern colonies and to the Caribbean.
About Wicomico County
Wicomico County Timeline
Wicomico County, located on the eastern shore of Maryland, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Nanticoke tribe, who relied on the Wicomico River for hunting, fishing, and transportation. European settlers arrived in the 17th century, bringing with them a new way of life.
In the early 18th century, Wicomico County was part of Somerset County. However, as the population grew and the need for local government increased, Wicomico County was established in 1867, named after the local river. The county seat was established in Salisbury, a thriving city that became the hub of commerce and industry in the region.
During the late 19th century, Wicomico County experienced significant growth and development. The expansion of the railroad network allowed for easier transportation of goods, leading to the establishment of canneries and mills, which became major industries in the area. Agriculture also played a vital role, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tomatoes.
In the 20th century, Wicomico County saw further economic growth and diversification. The establishment of Salisbury University in 1925 brought higher education opportunities to the region, while the construction of Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport in 1943 enhanced transportation and tourism. Today, Wicomico County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community, offering a mix of historical charm and modern amenities to its residents and visitors alike.
In the early 18th century, Wicomico County was part of Somerset County. However, as the population grew and the need for local government increased, Wicomico County was established in 1867, named after the local river. The county seat was established in Salisbury, a thriving city that became the hub of commerce and industry in the region.
During the late 19th century, Wicomico County experienced significant growth and development. The expansion of the railroad network allowed for easier transportation of goods, leading to the establishment of canneries and mills, which became major industries in the area. Agriculture also played a vital role, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tomatoes.
In the 20th century, Wicomico County saw further economic growth and diversification. The establishment of Salisbury University in 1925 brought higher education opportunities to the region, while the construction of Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport in 1943 enhanced transportation and tourism. Today, Wicomico County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community, offering a mix of historical charm and modern amenities to its residents and visitors alike.
Wicomico County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Wicomico County, Maryland.
- 1608: John Smith explores the area and records its Native American inhabitants
- 1638: The first English settlers arrive in the area
- 1665: The English crown grants a charter for the establishment of a county named Wicomico
- 1774: The county court is established
- 1795: A temporary county courthouse is built
- 1819: The county seat is established in Salisbury
- 1867: The first railroad line reaches Wicomico County
- 1902: The Wicomico County Courthouse is rebuilt after a fire
- 1941: The Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport is established
- 1967: The first Wicomico County Fair is held
- 1987: The Wicomico River is designated as a Maryland Scenic River
- 2003: The Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex opens in Salisbury
- 2018: The Wicomico County Youth & Civic Center undergoes major renovations