Old Lock Pump House, Chesapeake and Delaware Canal
a.k.a. Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Pump House
U.S. 213, Chesapeake City, MD Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
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.
Maryland was the birthplace of the national anthem: The national anthem of the United States, "The Star-Spangled Banner," was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. Key witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor and was inspired by the American flag still flying over the fort at dawn.
In 1674, the area was officially designated as Cecil County and named after Cecilius Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore. The county quickly developed into an important agricultural and trading region, with tobacco, corn, and wheat becoming major crops. The town of Elkton became the county seat and an important center for trade along the Elk River.
During the American Revolution, Cecil County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Many residents joined the Continental Army, and the town of Charlestown served as a rallying point for militias. The county also suffered due to British raids, with towns like Elkton being burned by British forces.
In the 19th century, Cecil County experienced significant industrialization, with the construction of canals and railways connecting the region to larger markets. The county became known for its iron furnaces, textile mills, and shipping industry. However, the advent of the railroad led to a decline in the canal system, leading to economic challenges for the region.
Today, Cecil County is a mix of rural landscapes and growing suburban communities. The county has preserved many historic sites and buildings, showcasing its rich history. It is also known for its natural beauty, including the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal and state parks like Elk Neck State Park. Cecil County continues to evolve, blending its historical roots with modern development and maintaining its status as an important part of Maryland's heritage.
Cecil County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cecil County, Maryland.
- 1660: English settlers begin to colonize the area that would later become Cecil County
- 1672: A trading post is established near the mouth of the Susquehanna River, leading to further European settlement
- 1674: Cecil County is officially established as part of the Province of Maryland
- 1706: The town of Elkton, now the county seat, is founded
- 1732: The county's borders are finalized, encompassing the present-day region
- 19th century: The county becomes an important transportation hub with the completion of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal
- 1812: Cecil County experiences significant economic growth due to the War of 1812
- 1856: Construction of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad further boosts the county's development
- 20th century: Cecil County becomes predominantly rural with a focus on agriculture
- 1963: The Conowingo Dam is completed, creating a reservoir and impacting the county's landscape
- 1996: The Hollywood Casino Perryville, the first casino in Maryland, opens in Cecil County