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.
Thomas Cresap died in 1787 and was buried here, overlooking Lock 70. This land was later owned by the Ginevan family, who built an impressive Victorian home on the land, which still stands today. Learn more.
Thomas Cresap died in 1787 and was buried here, overlooking Lock 70. This land was later owned by the Ginevan family, who built an impressive Victorian home on the land, which still stands today.
For many years (centuries, in fact), Thomas Cresap’s grave sat unmarked and nearly forgotten. Livestock grazed over the unkempt grave, and the headstone was knocked over. In 1939, someone moved the headstone to the Oldtown Methodist Church cemetery a mile away for safekeeping. For the next 60 years, the gravesite would sit unmarked in the middle of a cow pasture. Historians, descendants, and the National Park Service overcame many challenges to return the headstone to its rightful place in the 1990s.
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:
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C&O Canal Explorer!
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.