Proudly standing atop South Mountain in western Maryland is a nearly 200-year-old monument dedicated to George Washington. When the citizens of the nearby town of Boonsboro erected it in 1827, it was actually the very first monument completed in honor of Washington! This stout stone monument played an interesting role in the American Civil War and still survives to this day for visitors to explore and appreciate. Oh- and it sits along the famous Appalachian Trail!
History
Following George Washington’s death on December 14, 1799, there was an outpouring of grief, remembrance, and gratitude around the United States of America. Oftentimes, speeches and celebrations acted as an outlet for these emotions and on occasion, statues and monuments were constructed in honor of the nation’s first President. One such monument, the very first one to be completed in his honor in fact, was erected by the patriotic citizens of Boonsboro, Maryland.
On July 4, 1827, citizens of Boonsboro marched to the site where the monument now stands (atop South Mountain) and constructed a 15-foot tall monument. In September of that year, they returned to complete it to what it looks like today.
During the American Civil War, the heights upon which the Washington Monument sits became an important strategic location when General Robert E. Lee’s Confederate Army marched into western Maryland (it is located near a crucial mountain pass). Local citizens climbed up to the tower in order to get a better view of the action during the Battle of South Mountain on September 14, 1862. A few days later, the Union Army’s Signal Corps took control of the tower to use it as a signal station.
During and following the American Civil War, the Washington Monument was damaged and slowly deteriorated over time. On July 4, 1882, members of the South Mountain Encampment decided to rebuild the Washington Monument. Thanks to their efforts, the monument survived the next four decades until the 1930s, when it was properly restored (from 1934-36) by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Today, the Washington Monument is in great shape and remains a remarkable monument to George Washington and a symbol of American patriotism and perseverance. Additionally, the nearly 2,190 mile-long Appalachian Trail passes right by the monument, which offers hikers a unique opportunity to see some unique history and a fantastic view.
Interesting Facts
- The Washington Monument in Boonsboro, Maryland was the very first monument in honor of George Washington to be completed. Although a monument to Washington was begun in Baltimore in 1815, it wasn’t completed until 1829- a full two years after the one in Boonsboro
- During the American Civil War, the Union Army used the Washington Monument as a signal station to monitor Confederate troop movements in the area in 1862
- Today, the Washington Monument sits along the famous and oft-traversed Appalachian Trail
Our Visit & Recommendations
The Washington Monument near Boonsboro (6620 Zittlestown Road, Middletown, MD, 21769) is located in Washington Monument State Park. It is truly a hidden gem and if you are ever in/passing through the area, well worth a visit! The monument is free to visit, with ample parking and bathrooms on-site. In order to get to the monument, follow the brown and white sign to the trailhead, which will take approximately 5-10 minutes to walk.
One of my favorite parts about our visit were the numerous signs that mark various milestones in the life of Washington. As you walk the trail, various red and white signs explain major events in George Washington’s life, from his birth all the way until his death- quite interesting and informative!
As you continue on the trail and just prior to reaching the monument, you will see a path veer off to your right, which is actually the Appalachian Trail! You may see some weary hikers passing by during your visit.
Upon arriving to the crest of the hill, you will be met with the commanding presence of the Washington Monument- we were blown away by the view! Although we were unable to ascend the stone steps to the top, we were able to appreciate the monument and relax for a bit. Its no wonder the citizens of Boonsboro chose this location to build the monument.
