About Poolesville, Maryland
Poolesville, a town of 6,000 people in western Montgomery County, Maryland, is a worthwhile diversion for canal travelers. Poolesville has a storied history, with roots in the Civil War. Established by the Poole brothers in the 1760s, Poolesville grew from one log store into a small incorporated community by 1867. The town was occupied by the Union Army during the Civil War, and Confederate troops staged several raids there. The graves of Union troops rest in the old Poolesville Methodist Cemetery. Nearby, White’s Ford was the location for three major Confederate crossings of the Potomac River during the war.
Getting There
Parking Access
Poolesville is located about five miles from the C&O Canal National Historical Park. To get to the Park from the Old Town Bank Museum located on Fisher Avenue in Poolesville, head west on Fisher Avenue and make a left onto W. Willard Rd. Make a right onto Westerly Road in approximately 1.4 miles. You will then make a left onto Edwards Ferry’s Rd and continue until the end of the road. There is a small parking lot available for day and overnight parking located here.
River Access
Edward’s Ferry boat ramp access is located at the end of Edward’s Ferry Road, past Lockhouse 25. This is a historic Civil War site used by the Union Army for crossing the Potomac River. This area is known for smallmouth bass fishing.
Where to Stay
Town Highlights You Don't Want to Miss:
For History Lovers:
The John Poole House
Originally built in 1793 as a log store, the John Poole House is the oldest building in Poolesville. It served as Poolesville’s first Post Office in the early nineteenth century and is now the Historic Medley District office. This historic building is located behind The Old Bank/ Old City Hall of Poolesville.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts:
McKee Beshers Wildlife Management Area
McKee-Beshers is known for its deliberately flooded forests during the fall and winter. Biologists create these “greentree reservoirs” to attract colorful wood ducks and other waterfowl that migrate through or spend the winters here. Along the preserve’s many miles of trails, you can also spy more than 200 species of songbirds and other wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, reptiles and amphibians.
Sugarloaf Mountain overlook
This registered National Landmark has a breathtaking view and is accessible for bikers and hikers on the towpath. This is about a 10 mile bike ride from or 15mins by car from White’s Ferry. from Poolesville and 17 mins from Whites Ferry. The park is open 8 a.m to sunset. Gates close one hour before sunset.
Where to Eat & Drink:
Poolesville has so much to offer for visitors seeking local bites and charming small-town gathering places. Support our small businesses and visit these recommended places on your next visit to the park!
Photos by Mike Mitchell, Nicholas Clements, Jan Branscome, Trust Staff