In Frederick County, Maryland, the American Revolution is woven into the landscape—told through stone, iron, and the enduring architecture of the 18th century. For group travelers eager to walk in the footsteps of colonists, patriots, and loyalists, Frederick offers an immersive experience where the past comes vividly to life.
Begin at Catoctin Furnace, nestled at the base of Catoctin Mountain in northern Frederick County. This once-thriving ironworks forged cannonballs used by George Washington’s army at Yorktown—and was powered by enslaved labor. Today, the Museum of the Ironworker shares the powerful stories of the free and enslaved people who helped forge a new nation. Walk the preserved village, see forensic facial reconstructions, and reflect on America’s complicated birth. Ample bus parking is available at both destinations.
Just north of downtown Frederick, Rose Hill Manor Park tells the story of Thomas Johnson, Maryland’s first governor and a close ally of George Washington. He and his brothers helped operate Catoctin Furnace. The museum complex and surrounding gardens provide group-friendly access to early American life and legacy.
In downtown Frederick, stroll through Carroll Creek Park to the site of a 1755 meeting between Gen. Edward Braddock, George Washington, and Benjamin Franklin. A marker shares the story of their strategy session before Braddock’s failed attack on Fort Duquesne during the French and Indian War.
Nearby at City Hall, visitors stand where 12 Frederick County judges famously refused to enforce the Stamp Act in 1765—among the first organized acts of resistance to British rule in the Colonies.
Complete the experience at the Hessian Barracks, where British and Hessian prisoners of war were held during the Revolution. Located on the Maryland School for the Deaf campus, the site remains a powerful physical link to the war for independence.
Frederick County’s Revolutionary landmarks are perfect to explore as America commemorates its 250th anniversary. But for groups looking to explore further, Frederick County is full of fascinating, unique, and rich history from other eras, with docents who do an incredible job of sharing stories from the perspective of the people impacted.
The National Museum of Civil War Medicine, the only one of its kind devoted specifically to medicine and the story of care and healing on and off the battlefield, is very popular with groups. Other favorites include Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums and the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Frederick County also makes a great base camp for nearby visits to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; Harpers Ferry, West Virginia; and Baltimore, Maryland. Plan your history journey today!
Visit Frederick
800-999-3613
visitfrederick.org
Lead Image:
Seton Shrine
Photo courtesy of Visit Frederick
