Howard Berliner

Carroll County Area Guide

Carroll County is a picturesque rural county along Maryland’s northern border. Serene farmlands roll on as far as the eye can see. Densely wooded forest areas beckon to the outdoorsman in all of us to come and sit for a while and bask in the beauty that is all around. Reservoirs and lakes provide fishing and boating fun. There are bustling towns like Westminster with a population numbering just under 20,000 to small towns like New Windsor with a population of approximately 1,500. Bordered by the famous, sometimes infamous Mason-Dixon Line, Carroll County has a strong Civil War history, as well as an overall history dating back to 1837. Interesting shops, excellent schools, caring communities, beautiful, serene settings…all this and more awaits you in Carroll County, Maryland. Welcome home!

Links to Towns of Carroll County website:
http://www.carrollcountytourism.org/thingstodo/townlinks.aspx

History

Carroll County was established in 1837, out of areas that once were parts of Baltimore and Frederick Counties. The Civil War brought about extremely turbulent times in Carroll County, as the Mason-Dixon Line runs directly along Carroll County’s northern border. This line, as most are aware, was considered the line dividing the Union and the Confederacy. Residents of Carroll County were sharply divided, taking both sides in this tragic event. In 1863, massive numbers of troops marched through Carroll County on their way to the Battle of Gettysburg, the most deadly battle of the Civil War. Later the same year, a small battle known as Corbit’s Charge took place in the streets of Westminster, now the county seat of Carroll County.

On another note, Carroll County was the childhood home of Francis Scott Key, famed author of the poem that was to become the Star Spangled Banner.

Click here for Carroll County historic places that have made the list: National Register of Historic Places

Attractions and Activities

Where to begin? We’ll simply give you a list of some of the many attractions throughout Carroll County and let you decide!

Antique shops

Art Galleries and Theaters

Bike Tours

Carroll County Arts Council

Carroll County Farm Museum

Corn Mazes

Malls

Museums

Pick-your-own Produce

Specialty Shop

Tea Rooms

Walking Tours

Wineries

Parks and Recreation

Parks in Carroll County offer facilities for every sportsman, no matter what the sport of choice. Fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, you name it…there’s a place in Carroll County to do it! http://www.carrollcountytourism.org/thingstodo/parks.aspx

Bike Tours

Equestrian Council and Center

Equestrian Programs

Fishing

Golf

Sports and Fitness

Swimming

Events Calendar Info

Needless to say, given the amazing amount of attractions in Carroll County, there is always an engaging event happening. Bring the whole family out to see what all the talk about Carroll County community spirit is all about! http://www.carrollcountytourism.org/events/calendar.aspx

Carnivals

Carroll County Farm Museum Festivals and Events

Farmers’ Markets

Maryland Wine Festival