Introduction to Allegany County, Maryland
Allegany County is located in the western part of Maryland, bordered by Pennsylvania to the north and West Virginia to the south and west. The county was established in 1789, and its name is derived from the Allegheny Mountains, which dominate the region’s landscape. Allegany County is part of the Appalachian region and is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, rivers, and mountains that offer abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Historically, the county played a key role during the Industrial Revolution due to its coal mining and railroad industries.
The county experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. It has a population of approximately 67,000 people and offers a blend of rural charm and small-town living.
- County Seat: Cumberland
- Number of Cities and Towns: 6 incorporated cities and towns
- Major School Districts: Allegany County Public Schools
Cumberland
City Overview
Cumberland, the county seat of Allegany County, is located in the heart of the county along the Potomac River. Founded in 1787, Cumberland became an important transportation hub during the 19th century due to its location on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and its role as a railroad center. The city is often called the “Queen City” and was once one of the largest cities in Maryland. Today, Cumberland is known for its historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and vibrant arts community.
Cumberland experiences cold winters and warm, humid summers. Major landmarks include the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the mountains, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park, which provides recreational opportunities along the Potomac River.
City Facts
- Population: 19,076 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 2,000 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21502
- Road Network: Interstate 68, U.S. Route 40, U.S. Route 220
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport, Hagerstown Regional Airport
- Libraries: Allegany County Library – Washington Street Library
- Hospitals: UPMC Western Maryland
Major Schools
Cumberland is served by Allegany County Public Schools. Allegany High School (grades 9-12) enrolls around 750 students and offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career and technical education. Additionally, Fort Hill High School, also serving grades 9-12, enrolls around 650 students and provides a wide variety of academic and extracurricular programs. Washington Middle School serves grades 6-8, and several elementary schools, such as West Side Elementary, cater to younger students. The schools in Cumberland are known for their academic excellence and active participation in athletics and the arts.
Frostburg
City Overview
Frostburg is located in the western part of Allegany County, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Established in 1812, Frostburg has a rich history as a coal mining town and was a key location during the coal boom of the 19th century. Today, Frostburg is a small college town, home to Frostburg State University, which brings a youthful and vibrant energy to the community. The city also boasts a charming downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Frostburg experiences cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Major landmarks include the Frostburg Museum, which showcases the town’s mining heritage, and the Frostburg Depot, where visitors can catch the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. The Great Allegheny Passage, a popular biking and hiking trail, also passes through Frostburg.
City Facts
- Population: 8,075 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 2,200 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21532
- Road Network: Interstate 68, U.S. Route 40
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport, Hagerstown Regional Airport
- Libraries: Frostburg Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Cumberland (UPMC Western Maryland)
Major Schools
Frostburg is served by Allegany County Public Schools. Mountain Ridge High School (grades 9-12) enrolls around 900 students and offers a variety of academic programs, including AP courses and vocational education. The school is also known for its strong athletics and arts programs. For younger students, Frost Elementary School serves grades K-5, while Mount Savage Middle School serves grades 6-8. In addition, Frostburg State University, a public university with approximately 4,000 students, offers undergraduate and graduate programs, contributing to the city’s vibrant educational environment.
Lonaconing
City Overview
Lonaconing is a small town located in the George’s Creek Valley of western Allegany County. Founded in 1837, the town grew rapidly in the 19th century due to its coal mining and iron manufacturing industries. Today, Lonaconing retains its historical charm, with a number of well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The town is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including mountains and forests, making it a peaceful, rural community.
Lonaconing experiences cold winters and warm summers, typical of the region’s continental climate. Major landmarks include the Lonaconing Iron Furnace, one of the best-preserved iron furnaces in the country, and the George’s Creek Railway, which runs through the town.
City Facts
- Population: 1,144 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 1,400 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21539
- Road Network: Maryland Route 36
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport
- Libraries: George’s Creek Regional Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Cumberland (UPMC Western Maryland)
Major Schools
Lonaconing is part of the Allegany County Public Schools system. Westmar Middle School (grades 6-8) and George’s Creek Elementary School (grades K-5) serve the local student population, offering a well-rounded education with a focus on core academic subjects. High school students typically attend Mountain Ridge High School in nearby Frostburg. These schools provide a small-town educational experience with personalized attention, preparing students for success in both academic and extracurricular activities.
Westernport
City Overview
Westernport is located in the southern part of Allegany County, near the confluence of the Potomac River and Savage River. The town was founded in the early 19th century as a transportation and industrial hub, serving as a key port along the Potomac River. Westernport’s economy was historically based on coal mining and railroads, though it has transitioned to a more residential community in recent years.
Westernport experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Major landmarks include the Tri-Towns Plaza and the Potomac River, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and kayaking.
City Facts
- Population: 1,888 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 1,900 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21562
- Road Network: U.S. Route 220, Maryland Route 135
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport
- Libraries: Westernport Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Cumberland (UPMC Western Maryland)
Major Schools
Westernport is served by Allegany County Public Schools. Students in the area attend Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg for grades 9-12, which has a student population of around 900. The high school offers a range of academic courses and extracurricular activities. Westernport Elementary School serves students in grades K-5, providing early education and support for young learners. Additionally, nearby Westmar Middle School serves grades 6-8. These schools aim to provide a well-rounded education with a focus on preparing students for future success.
Midland
City Overview
Midland is a small town located in the George’s Creek Valley, between Lonaconing and Frostburg. Founded in the mid-19th century, Midland grew as a coal mining town and remains a close-knit community with a rich history. The town is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Midland has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Major landmarks include the Midland Fire Hall, which serves as a community gathering place, and the nearby Savage River State Forest, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.
City Facts
- Population: 429 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 1,400 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21542
- Road Network: Maryland Route 36
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport
- Libraries: Nearest library in Lonaconing
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Cumberland (UPMC Western Maryland)
Major Schools
Students in Midland attend schools within the Allegany County Public Schools system. Westmar Middle School and George’s Creek Elementary School serve younger students in grades K-8. For high school, students typically attend Mountain Ridge High School in nearby Frostburg. These schools offer a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and community service opportunities, helping to foster well-rounded educational experiences.
Barton
City Overview
Barton is a small town located along George’s Creek in the southwestern part of Allegany County. Founded in the mid-19th century, Barton was historically a coal mining community. The town has retained its rural character and is known for its quiet, small-town atmosphere. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, Barton offers scenic views and outdoor recreation, with easy access to nearby state parks and natural areas.
Barton experiences a temperate climate, with cold winters and mild summers. The town is located near the Potomac River, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
City Facts
- Population: 429 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 1,600 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 21521
- Road Network: Maryland Route 36
- Nearest Airports: Greater Cumberland Regional Airport
- Libraries: Nearest library in Westernport
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Cumberland (UPMC Western Maryland)
Major Schools
Barton is served by Allegany County Public Schools. Students attend Westmar Middle School (grades 6-8) and George’s Creek Elementary School (grades K-5). High school students typically attend Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg. These schools provide a strong academic foundation, along with opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and community service. The district emphasizes preparing students for college and careers, with personalized instruction and small class sizes.