Visit Frederick - Maryland

Fascinating history about some visitors to Frederick County during World War 2! 🇬🇧

Did you know that Catoctin Mountain Park served as a rest camp for Britain’s Royal Navy during World War II? 🇬🇧⚓️

The crews of 4 four Royal Navy ships stayed in Catoctin Mountain Park in 1941 while their vessels underwent repairs in Baltimore- the crew of HMS Southern Prince in June, the crew of HMS Bulolo in July, the crew of HMS Menestheus in August and September, and the crew of HMS Agamemnon in October and November.

While there was a press blackout, local residents were aware of the British presence in the park. Various community groups hosted typical American activities for the sailors and in return, the sailors held exhibition cricket, soccer, and rugby matches! 🏏⚽️🏉

Today, Catoctin Mountain continues to provide space for rest, relaxation, and recreation for visitors from the United States and beyond 🏕️

Image description: Royal Navy sailors standing at Camp Greentop in 1941 (NPS)

Have you gotten your tickets to this Saturday, June 13 Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage? Not only is it a behind the scenes peek into some of Frederick County's private historic homes, it's also a fundraiser for the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area and a Maryland 250 Commission designated event.

Learn more by visiting ⬇️
https://www.visitfrederick.org/event/maryland-house-and-garden-pilgrimage-frederick-county-tour/24522/

Why are we promoting the Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage and a fundraiser for the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area?? We are thrilled to be the first stop on the tour, but it is more than that....

The beloved Bussard's Barbershop turned Welcome Center - was supported by grants and donations through both of these organizations. Without them, this building may not have the had the same fabulous rehabilitation inside and out! We are very proud and excited to be part of this tour that is also a designated Maryland 250 Commission event. Not every event in 2026 gets this kind of designation. (Yay us!). And, as Main Street Middletotwn, we are looking forward to welcoming visitors to Main Street Middletown (because we know our downtown is THE B-E-S-T!).

If you appreciate the historic buildings in and around Maryland and especially in Frederick County, we invite you to attend the upcoming Frederick Tour on Saturday, June 13th! This is an event that does not happen every year, so you do not want to miss this opportunity!

Not only will you have a full day of peeking into private homes that are rarely open to the public, you'll experience the layers of history that is palpable. Moreover, you will be supporting TWO organizations that do so much to preserve and educate Marylanders about our fantastic history. This is a win-win! Great history, beautiful private homes, gorgeous gardens🌺, all for worthy causes.

Tickets can be purchased at the Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage website. Buy your tickets now, and we'll see you Saturday!! 😀