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.
In 1755, the Virginia General Assembly recognized the need for a proper river crossing, and Thomas Swearingen was authorized to operate a ferry on the Potomac River between the Maryland side and Shepherdstown, about half a mile upstream from Packhorse Ford. For over 50 years, the Swearingen family operated the ferry until John Blackford, who married into the Swearingen family, gained a controlling interest in 1816. Learn more.
In 1755, the Virginia General Assembly recognized the need for a proper river crossing, and Thomas Swearingen was authorized to operate a ferry on the Potomac River between the Maryland side and Shepherdstown, about half a mile upstream from Packhorse Ford. For over 50 years, the Swearingen family operated the ferry until John Blackford, who married into the Swearingen family, gained a controlling interest in 1816. Two of Blackford’s slaves, the “Foreman of the Ferry”, operated the ferry with power to hire. They oversaw white laborers, free blacks, and Indians.
In the late 1840s, citizens chartered the Virginia and Maryland Bridge Company, which posed a threat to the ferry. Ferry service was discontinued in 1850 and the company built a covered wooden bridge. Potomac Bridge got travelers across the river, though it was destroyed in 1861, 1889, and 1936 by fire, flood, and flood – respectively. In 1939 the bridge was rebuilt again and named after the innovative inventor of the steamboat, James Rumsey, and now carries Route 34 overhead.
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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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.