Industry and Economics

Visit the Williamsport Visitor Center at Cushwa Basin for information about the Canal and the surrounding area, sites including an aqueduct, rail lift-bridge, lockhouse, and operable locks.

Want to explore history and enjoy a day bicycling? This is the route for you. Enjoy a leisurely 40-mile bike ride, or choose to hike and or paddle the length instead, spending the night camping or staying in paid accommodations. Historic treasures await you in Williamsport, Shepherdstown, and Harpers Ferry along the way.

Explore the long history of the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Virginius Island is located in Harpers Ferry Historical Park, at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. The cultural landscape of Virginius Island has three periods of significance: 1750-1820, when the Shenandoah Canal was established; 1820-1855 when the island was organized into smaller parcels of land and the milling industry was established; and 1855-1890, when the island experienced destruction caused by the Civil War and floods.

The Allstadt Farm is a vernacular landscape that was a diversified agricultural operation at the time of the John Brown Raid and the Civil War. The cultural landscape is significant in four distinct areas and periods of history: agricultural history (1793-1901), social history (1859-1861), military history (1861-1865), and industrial history (1901-1957).

The Main Arsenal is a defining feature of Springfield Armory National Historic Site. Built between 1847-1850, under the direction of Major James W. Ripley, it gave the Armory a military and commanding presence. Today the Main Arsenal serves as a museum which tells the story of the workers, technological innovation, the evolution of firearms, and the impact the Armory had on Springfield, the surrounding communities, and the United States.

The C&O Canal National Historical Park will close a portion of the towpath near the Paw Paw Tunnel around the beginning of June.

On May 5th, 2017 at 11:00 am, There will be a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the restoration of the Conococheague Aqueduct! This ceremony is free and open to the public.

Discover the St Clement’s Island Museum where Maryland's founding story comes to life. Explore exhibits that highlight the rich history of the Piscataway People and early settlers. Stand on the historic island where the first English settlers landed in 1634, accessible by water taxi. Experience the beauty of the Potomac River and immerse yourself in the culture that shaped the Chesapeake Bay. Don’t miss the chance to learn and explore this unique site in St. Mary’s County.