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Maryland was founded as a Catholic colony: Maryland was founded by the English nobleman George Calvert, also known as Lord Baltimore, in 1632. He envisioned Maryland as a haven for Catholics who faced persecution in England at the time. The colony's first settlement, St. Mary's City, was established in 1634.
About Dorchester County
Dorchester County Timeline
Dorchester County, Maryland, located on the Eastern Shore, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Nanticoke and Choptank tribes, who relied on the region's natural resources for survival. European settlers arrived in the 17th century and established the town of Cambridge in 1684, which would later become the county seat.
During the colonial era, Dorchester County became a major center for tobacco cultivation and trade. The county's economy thrived on the labor of enslaved Africans, who were brought to the area to work on the plantations. The presence of plantations and the subsequent introduction of the Underground Railroad led to Dorchester County becoming an important site for the escape of enslaved individuals seeking freedom in the North.
In the 19th century, the county's economy gradually shifted away from agriculture and towards industry. The construction of the Cambridge and Seaford Railroad in 1865 encouraged industrial development, leading to the establishment of canneries, oyster canning factories, and shipyards in the county. This industrial growth brought job opportunities and economic prosperity to the area.
In the 20th century, Dorchester County faced challenges due to the decline of its industrial sector and the impact of racial segregation. However, it has also witnessed efforts towards revitalization and preservation of its historical and natural assets. Today, Dorchester County attracts visitors with its historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation centered around the Chesapeake Bay and the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
During the colonial era, Dorchester County became a major center for tobacco cultivation and trade. The county's economy thrived on the labor of enslaved Africans, who were brought to the area to work on the plantations. The presence of plantations and the subsequent introduction of the Underground Railroad led to Dorchester County becoming an important site for the escape of enslaved individuals seeking freedom in the North.
In the 19th century, the county's economy gradually shifted away from agriculture and towards industry. The construction of the Cambridge and Seaford Railroad in 1865 encouraged industrial development, leading to the establishment of canneries, oyster canning factories, and shipyards in the county. This industrial growth brought job opportunities and economic prosperity to the area.
In the 20th century, Dorchester County faced challenges due to the decline of its industrial sector and the impact of racial segregation. However, it has also witnessed efforts towards revitalization and preservation of its historical and natural assets. Today, Dorchester County attracts visitors with its historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation centered around the Chesapeake Bay and the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
Dorchester County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dorchester County, Maryland.
- 1669 - Dorchester County established as one of the original eight counties of Maryland.
- 1695 - Cambridge designated as the county seat.
- 1774 - The American Revolutionary War begins, with many Dorchester County residents actively participating.
- 1833 - The first railroad, the Cambridge & Seaford Railroad, is completed in Dorchester County.
- 1861 - The Civil War begins, and Dorchester County experiences both Confederate and Union control.
- 1879 - The Great Cambridge Fire destroys a significant portion of the town.
- 1933 - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge is opened, connecting Dorchester County to Annapolis and the Eastern Shore.
- 1962 - The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is established in Dorchester County.
- 1987 - The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park is established to honor the legacy of Harriet Tubman, who was born in Dorchester County.