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The town of Hancock is rich
in history, primarily due to its unique location in Western Maryland. Hancock is
the western most town in Washington County, situated on the Potomac River at the
narrowest point in the state of Maryland. The town is named for ferryman Joseph
Hancock, Jr., who ferried travelers, traders and commerce across the Potomac.
In 1818 the National Pike,
Hancock’s Main Street, was officially opened, traversing the path of the
Nemecolon Indian Trail. Thanks to the increased flow of travelers, the town
boomed. Hancock enjoyed its second construction boom when work on the Chesapeake
& Ohio Canal filtered throughout the area in the 1830’s. By 1850 the canal
stretched all the way to Cumberland. During the Civil War, Hancock became an
important town in the struggle for control of the Canal and the
Potomac.
After World War I the town’s
economy centered on canning factories and orchards. As these industries began to
decline, the town attracted other industries to the area such as London Fog,
Fleetwood Industry and Genuine Parts. Like most small communities Hancock
suffered losses during the 1960’s, ‘70’s and ‘80’s, but the 1990’s has brought
revitalization and economic growth to the town.
Today the town
boasts a 48,000 square foot Antique and Crafts Mall, one of the finest indoor
antique and craft operations on the East Coast and many unique specialty shops.
The Hancock Historical Society Museum, located in the lower level of the Town
Hall and Community Center, focuses on local history and transportation – the
C&O Canal, the National Pike and the Western Maryland Railroad.
For the outdoor enthusiast,
Hancock (since its streetscape renovations) is a biker friendly town. With bike
racks, a bike livery, parks and several access points to the Western Maryland
Rail Trail, the cyclist can break in town to visit the many specialty shops and
restaurants before continuing their trip. The Western Maryland Rail Trail,
currently offers 10 miles of paved trail perfect for biking, rollerblading,
walking or running. Phase II of the Rail Trail will begin in spring 2000 with an
additional 10 miles of trail added to the west of Hancock. The C&O Canal
National Historic Park features biking and hiking trails, as well as a
re-watered section of the Canal.
Located near Hancock,
visitors can enjoy historic Woodmont Rod & Gun Club, a lodge where past U.
S. Presidents, Amos and Andy and Babe Ruth all hunted. The Potomac River Boat
Ramp also boasts the best bass fishing on this section of the Potomac River.
Close by is Fort Frederick, a restored 1756 fort used during the French and
Indian War, and Sideling Hill Exhibit Center.
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