Interesting Facts You May Not Know About Grantsville, Maryland

As the Casselman brand grows, we remain committed to our promise to serve guests, tourists, and travelers throughout the Grantsville, Maryland area. From our historic hotel, motel, restaurant, and bakery, we have something for everyone to enjoy. 

In operation since 1842, we know a little something about the Garrett County region. Grantsville is your one-stop destination for relaxation, adventure, and more with its rich history and recreational opportunities. Read on to discover what separates our town from the rest. 


FACT #1: EARLY FOUNDING

In 1785, Daniel Grant, a Baltimorean, acquired 1100 acres of land called Cornucopia. No, not the basket. Located in the center of the acreage is what would become the town of Grantsville, named after its founder. Once a member of Allegany County, Grantsville became part of Garrett County, named after John Garrett, in 1872.


FACT #2: WASHINGTON PASSES THROUGH

Before the arrival of Daniel Grant, the wooded region was covered by hills, valleys, and rivers as far as the eye could see. Though not heavily inhabited, it saw some foot traffic and camping near Hilltop and Little Crossings from American heroes, George Washington and General Braddock, as they passed through to Fort Duquesne.


FACT #3: THE CASSELMAN RIVER BRIDGE

Once an aspect of the National Road project, the Casselman River Bridge was famously constructed in 1813. The stone bridge was at once known as the "largest single-span bridge of its day." In the early 1950s, it became inoperable for vehicular traffic, but this National Historic Landmark is still open to pedestrians and viewable from the Casselman River Bridge State Park


FACT #4: HISTORICAL SITES

Did you know that Grantsville is home to several historical sites and the Grantsville Community Museum, recording the region's best historical facts and figures? 

Interpretive Panel

Describing the area's history and is located in front of the Casselman Inn.

Casselman Inn

Operational since 1842, our inn has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the last recorded from the National Road era.


Check out our related blog to learn some interesting facts about The Casselman: Interesting Facts You May Not Know About The Casselman Historic Hotel. 

Cornucopia Farm

This private residence still bears the name of the original land grant established in 1785.

Fuller-Baker Log House

Now a private residence, this log house likely functioned as a tavern during the 19th-century.

Stanton's Mill

The mill was built in 1797 and operated as a grist mill from 1824 until 1990.

Tomlinson Inn

Now a private residence, this large stone home was once a busy inn along the National Road, hosting guests like James K. Polk. 

Read our related blog to learn more about historical sites to visit in the Grantsville area: 5 Historical Sites Near Grantsville, Maryland, You Should See. 


FACT #5: RECREATION GALORE

There's something for the whole family to enjoy in and around the Grantsville area. 

Big Run State Park 

Located at the Savage River Reservoir's mouth and surrounded by Savage River State Forest, the park provides lots of hiking, fishing, and excitement. 

Casselman River Bridge State Park 

Home of the original stone bridge, the Casselman River also provides some of the best fly fishing in the Mid-Atlantic.

Little Meadows Lake 

If you're a camper, hiker, or angler, Little Meadows is the park for you.  

New Germany State Park 

Home to some of the best cross-country skiing, fishing, swimming, hiking, geocaching, and camping, this state park is ready for exploration.

Savage River State Forest 

That's right––Maryland's largest state forest can be seen right from Grantsville's backyard. 


VISITING GRANTSVILLE? CHECK OUT THE CASSELMAN!

Ready to explore, observe, and learn something new on your next trip? Look no further than The Casselman Inn or The Casselman Motel in Grantsville. 

Not only will you have plenty to look forward to in town, but you can enjoy Grantsville's rich legacy firsthand from the Casselman. So book a room with us, eat a lovely dinner and breakfast at The Casselman Inn Restaurant, and walk away with the finest baked goods in all of Maryland. 

Call us at 301-895-5055, or contact us online. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.