Creating a National Park
Historical marker location:Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
1872: Yellowstone National Park is established as the first national park in the United States and widely recognized as the first national park in the world.
1890: Yosemite National Park is established in California, protecting its iconic landscapes and natural wonders.
1916: The National Park Service (NPS) is created as a federal agency responsible for managing and preserving national parks. Stephen Mather becomes the first director of the NPS.
1919: Grand Canyon National Park is established in Arizona, safeguarding its immense and awe-inspiring canyon.
1926: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is established, becoming the most visited national park in the United States.
1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt establishes the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of his New Deal program. The CCC plays a crucial role in the development and conservation of national parks, employing thousands of young men in projects such as trail construction, reforestation, and infrastructure improvements.
1964: The Wilderness Act is passed, protecting designated wilderness areas within national parks and other public lands, ensuring their preservation in their natural state.
1970: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is signed into law, mandating environmental impact assessments for federal projects, including those within national parks.
1980: The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act is passed, expanding the national park system and adding significant areas of land in Alaska, including the establishment of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
2009: President Barack Obama signs the Omnibus Public Land Management Act into law, designating several new national parks and expanding existing ones, such as Joshua Tree National Park and Zion National Park.
Present: The U.S. National Park system has grown to include over 60 designated national parks, as well as national monuments, preserves, seashores, and historic sites. These protected areas attract millions of visitors each year and serve as vital conservation areas for biodiversity, natural wonders, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation.
The establishment and continued expansion of the U.S. National Parks reflect a commitment to preserving and sharing the country's unique natural and cultural treasures for future generations.
During the American Revolutionary War, Washington County played a significant role. Many residents of the county enlisted in the Continental Army, and several key battles were fought in the region. One such battle was the Battle of Antietam in 1862, which was the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. The county saw a major influx of soldiers and activity during the war, leaving lasting scars on the landscape.
After the war, Washington County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the Cumberland Valley Railroad in the mid-19th century brought increased trade and commerce. The county became an important transportation hub, connecting various regions and facilitating economic growth. Agriculture also thrived in the area, with crops such as wheat, corn, and apples being major contributors to the local economy.
Today, Washington County is a diverse and thriving community. It is known for its historical landmarks, including the Antietam National Battlefield and the C&O Canal, both of which attract tourists from around the world. The county also has a strong agricultural presence, with farms and vineyards dotting the countryside. Additionally, Washington County is home to several educational institutions, including Hagerstown Community College and the University System of Maryland at Hagerstown. Overall, the history of Washington County, MD reflects a rich tapestry of Native American heritage, Revolutionary War significance, and ongoing growth and prosperity.
Washington County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Washington County, Maryland.
- 1776 - Washington County, MD is established on September 6th.
- 1781 - Hagerstown, the county seat of Washington County, is founded.
- 1814 - The Battle of Hagerstown takes place during the War of 1812.
- 1827 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal begins construction in Washington County.
- 1842 - The Western Maryland Railroad is founded, enhancing transportation in the county.
- 1861 - During the Civil War, Washington County is the first in Maryland to vote against secession.
- 1862 - The Battle of Antietam, one of the bloodiest battles in American history, occurs in Washington County.
- 1873 - The Maryland Agricultural College (now the University of Maryland) is established in Hagerstown.
- 1937 - The Appalachian Trail, which passes through Washington County, is completed.
- 1943 - The Army's Fort Ritchie is established in Washington County.
- 1975 - The Hagerstown Regional Airport opens for commercial flights.
- 1984 - The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is founded in Hagerstown.