Willow Grove
a.k.a. Willow Grove Brick House Farm
MD 457 off MD 213, Greensboro, MD Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The Battle of Antietam was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War: The Battle of Antietam, which took place on September 17, 1862, was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. More than 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing after 12 hours of fighting. The battle is considered a turning point in the war, as it gave President Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation.
During the American Revolutionary War, Caroline County played an important role as many of its residents joined the fight for independence. The county was home to several notable patriots, including Samuel Chase, who signed the Declaration of Independence. After the war, agriculture became the main economic driver in the county, with tobacco and wheat being the primary crops.
In the 19th century, Caroline County witnessed significant changes due to advancements in transportation. The construction of railroads, such as the Queen Anne's Railroad in the mid-1800s, facilitated the movement of goods and people, stimulating economic growth. The county also played a key role in the underground railroad, with notable abolitionist figures like Harriet Tubman, who was born in nearby Dorchester County, leading enslaved individuals to freedom through the Eastern Shore.
The 20th century brought further changes to Caroline County, including the decline of agriculture and the rise of manufacturing and tourism. The county experienced a boom in the canning industry, with companies like Vlasic Pickles and Maryland Canning establishing operations within its borders. Additionally, the opening of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in 1952 made the area more accessible, attracting tourists to its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
Today, Caroline County continues to embrace its agricultural roots while also diversifying its economy. The county remains an important center for farming, but it has also seen growth in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Caroline County's rich history, scenic beauty, and close-knit community make it an attractive place to live and visit on Maryland's Eastern Shore.
Caroline County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Caroline County, Maryland.
- 1707 - Caroline County was established as a part of Queen Anne's County in the Province of Maryland.
- 1773 - Caroline County became its own separate county.
- 1801 - The town of Denton was established as the county seat.
- 1800s - The county saw growth and development in agriculture, with tobacco being a major crop.
- 1862 - The county experienced Civil War conflict during the Battle of Fredericksburg.
- 20th century - The county's economy shifted towards poultry farming and canning industries.
- 1960s - Civil Rights movements impacted the county with demonstrations and protests for racial equality.
- 1990s - The county experienced population growth and an increase in residential and commercial development.