You can now create your own itineraries to guide your C&O Canal exploration, or you can copy one of ours! Learn more about Itineraries.
The Allegany County Historical Society was founded in 1937, and in 1954 the Society purchased its current location – 218 Washington Street in Cumberland. The Society’s primary mission is to engage visitors of all ages in history and to “develop and preserve an awareness of the history and traditions of Allegany County for its citizens as well as visitors to the county.”
The house holds hundreds of artifacts and historical items, and has evolved into a house museum depicting the only two families to live there: the Gordon and the Roberts families. Learn more.
The Allegany County Historical Society was founded in 1937, and in 1954 the Society purchased its current location – 218 Washington Street in Cumberland. The Society’s primary mission is to engage visitors of all ages in history and to “develop and preserve an awareness of the history and traditions of Allegany County for its citizens as well as visitors to the county.”
The house holds hundreds of artifacts and historical items, and has evolved into a house museum depicting the only two families to live there: the Gordon and the Roberts families. The Historical Society also operates the F. Brooke Whiting House & Museum at 632 Washington Street and the Union Grove One Room School on Mason Road. It hosts annual Heritage Days the second weekend of June, holds two general membership meetings a year, and welcomes volunteers at all of its sites.
We know that to preserve something, you need to experience it, so we are proud to provide support to the C&O National Historical Park as their official philanthropic partner.
Please visit the National Park Service website for the following information:
For more information and nearby places to stay or grab a bite to eat, please visit our local tourism partners:
There has been a lapse in appropriations, and a shutdown of the federal government is currently in effect. Much of the C&O Canal National Historical Park remains open to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Visitor services, including park visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, will not be available. Inquiries to the National Park Service will not be received or responded to until the shutdown ends.
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely. Scheduled Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled. While a federal government shutdown is in effect, visitors should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown.
When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations. Love the Park? Help the Trust! Consider making a donation. Your support directly helps fund beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park.