Categories: TRAVEL

Maryland Civil War Battlefields and Historic Points of Interest

Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest draw thousands of tourists annually. From the Chesapeake Bay to western Maryland there is plenty to keep history buffs occupied. The challenge isn’t so much in what to do but where to start first.

My family enjoyed our visit to the Chesapeake Bay. The day of our visit was picture perfect. The water was fresh and inviting and the people were friendly. This is just one of the many beautiful places that you will find in Maryland.

If you are thinking of visiting Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest is at the Official Site of the Maryland Department of Tourism. There you can find maps and downloadable information to help make your visit all that it can be.

#1 Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest.
U.S. Naval Academy
Annapolis, MD
Like all cities, Annapolis was a town divided. The presence of the U.S. Naval Academy stood in contrast with the political leanings of other parts of the state. A parole was established so that released prisoners of war could receive needed medical care. The Naval Academy was central to addressing the medical needs of soldiers.

It would take time for the Confederacy to build their navy. The U.S. Navy played a major role in the Civil War through the transportation of troops and supplies to Union controlled ports along the coast.

Today visitors can tour the U.S. Naval Academy. Although not specifically a Civil War site the visit is steeped in history and well worth a visit.

#2 Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest.
Booth’s Escape Route
Bryantown and other towns in MD
Travelers can now tour the escape route taken by John Wilkes Booth. After shooting President Lincoln in Ford’s Theater in Washington he fled first to Maryland and then into Virginia. There are several towns along the route that played important roles in the failed attempt of John Wilkes Booth to flee from justice.

#3 Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest.
Antietam National Battlefield
Sharpsburg, MD
When thinking of Civil War battles there are three sites that usually stand out. Among these are the battles at Manassas, Virginia. Lookout Mountain in Georgia and Tennessee and Antietam stand out. These were scenes of what are perhaps the fiercest battles of the Civil War.

A 3-day pass to the battlefield is $6 per family. Visitors may purchase an annual pass for $20. The park does honor Golden Age and Golden Access passes.

Visitors will enjoy a visitor center and bookshop, self-guided walking tours, educational talks by the rangers, monuments and more. A free film is shown in the visitor center. It can easily take an afternoon to explore the Antietam National Battlefield.

Next year, 2011 marks the beginning of the 150th anniversary of the War Between the States. Maryland Civil War battlefields and points of interest will be abuzz historical reenactments and activities during the Sesquicentennial Anniversary commemoration.

Visitors will want to contact the historical sites before arriving to inquire about planned activities.

Sources:
Personal experience
National park service
Civil War Traveler
Historic Annapolis Foundation
Maryland Dept. of Tourism
U.S. Naval Academy
Sons of the South
Visit Maryland