Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County are steeped in history, with a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. Here’s a glimpse into the past of this beautiful area in the northern part of Maryland.
Native American History
The earliest inhabitants of Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County were various Native American tribes, including the Piscataway Indians and the Monocacy Indians. The original settlers hunted for game in the area, fished its many waterways, and gathered roots, fruits, nuts and vegetables from its abundant forests. Evidence of their lives can still be seen today in areas such as Oldtown Road near Accident, as well as Indian Rock on Savage River State Forest.
Early Settlers
By the late 1700s, settlers had begun to arrive in what is now known as Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County. These early settlers were mainly German immigrants who sought to farm the land and explore the opportunities provided by rivers such as the Youghiogheny River and Marsh Run stream system. Later generations followed suit with sawmills popping up along river banks to harvest timber used for lumber production.
Birth of a Holiday Resort
By 1925 landowner Samuel D Hamill had assembled 1000 acres of land surrounding Deep Creek Lake – then known as Bear Lick Reservoir – through various purchases from nearby farmers. He then started advertising plots around what he christened “the Great Glades” – which later became today’s state park – for sale to vacationers for just $4 per acre! His efforts turned what was formerly an agricultural community into one of Maryland’s most popular holiday resorts nicknamed “the Caribbean of Maryland” due to its warm summer climate given its high elevation along Backbone Mountain Range (1640 feet above sea level).
More Recent History
Since then, much has changed in Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County – but it is still possible to find traces of its earlier days if you know where to look! In addition to tourist attractions such as boating on Deep Creek Lake or skiing at Wisp Resort Adventure Park, visitors can also enjoy local history museums such as Bittinger Country Historical Museum or Oakland Train Station & Community Center Museum located close by.
No matter how you decide to spend your time in this extraordinary corner of Maryland, you will be sure to catch a glimpse into its vibrant past corner while enjoying all that modern day life has to offer there!