Civil War Trails® has been working with communities since 1994 to share their stories and connect visitors with small towns and big stories across a network that now spans six states. Travelers look to Trails to put them in the footsteps of the generals, soldiers, citizens, and the enslaved who found themselves in the midst of this Civil War.
Elkridge Furance Inn - On May 5, 1861, US General Benjamin F. Butler occupied Relay, Maryland with the goal of preventing Confederate sympathizers from sabotaging the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Thomas Viaduct - the most important and vulnerable target for saboteurs in central Maryland. Nearby, the Elkridge Furnace Inn became a "neighborhood parlor" and tavern.
B&O Railroad Station – The oldest railroad terminus in the U.S. (1831) was guarded by Union troops throughout the war. Is a free museum today.
Patapsco Female Institute – This is the site of an important school that influenced young ladies of the North and South. Is a park and event venue today.
Oakland Manor – Brothers Moses, William, and Joseph Shipley were slaves who labored here and on neighboring farms. Is an event venue today.
Savage Mill – This cotton-weaving mill was used for Federal service. Is a complex of specialty shops and restaurants today surrounded by a park and river trail.
Thomas Viaduct - The strategic B&O Railroad bridge to Washington placed two towns in the theater of war. Is located in the Orange Grove Area of Patapsco Valley State Park.
Check out Maryland Civil War Trail's new interactive map! This map helps you follow in the footsteps of soldiers, citizens, and freedom fighters.
