Thurmont

Originally known as Mechanicstown, Thurmont once served as a bustling village of "mechanics" engaged in support professions (teamsters, wheelrights, blacksmiths, tanners) for nearby Catoctin Furnace. Early residents, comprised primarily of German descent,  migrated here in the mid to late 1700's from the York and Lancaster areas of Pennsylvania.

The Western Maryland Railroad arrived in 1872 and served as an important shipping point for local farmers and boon to timber-related industries. The railroad also turned the town into a popular tourist destination, aiding Baltimore City residents looking to escape the oppressive summer heat in favor of mountain tranquility.

The most famous of Thurmont's "tourists" have been American Presidents beginning with Herbert Hoover and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Thurmont is known worldwide thanks to its proximity to the President's retreat at Camp David in the nearby Catoctin Mountains. Although Camp David is off limits to the public, one can learn about the retreat's rich history at the Camp David Museum located in the Cozy Restaurant, adjacent the Byway.

Thurmont with its revitalized downtown area is a designated Main Street Maryland community, boasting a number of specialty shops and restaurants. The Cozy, Mountaingate and Shamrock restaurants are located adjacent the Catoctin Mountain National Scenic Byway and are well-known by regular travelers of US15.

Learn more about Thurmont

Learn more about the history of Thurmont