Past to Present at Patapsco Valley

  • Thu, April 25, 10am - 12pm
  • This event has passed.

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Field Trips Open to the Public

Learn about Patapsco Valley State Park’s unique cultural history with Edward Johnson, volunteer ranger and coauthor of the book,  Images of America: Patapsco Valley State Park. Now known as Maryland’s first and largest state park, the Patapsco area has changed dramatically from the wildlands hunted by the Native Americans to the arrival of the Europeans who brought industry to now, the park we enjoy today.

Of those industries that left their mark on the area, the first commercial venture was an iron forge that helped to sustain the grain, paper, and textile industries that followed. We’ll visit ruins of those ventures along our hiking trail as we listen to the stories about the area’s deforestation and recovery and how the Thomas Viaduct was built in 1835 as the country’s first multi-span masonry railroad bridge built on a curve. We’ll learn how those original 43 acres became a popular camping destination in the 1920s, how the Civilian Conservation Corps stepped up to help in the 1930s, and about the major damage suffered during the floods of Hurricane Agnes in 1972 and the most recent Ellicott City flood in 2018. The park now encompasses eight recreational areas and has grown to 14,000 acres, including 32 miles along the Patapsco River.

We will also check out the Orange Grove area, about two miles down the road, to see the Swinging Bridge and the remains of the Orange Grove Flour Mill. This suspension footbridge spans the Patapsco River. Previous footbridges at this location enabled the residents of the Orange Grove mill town to cross the river to Baltimore County.
Edward Johnson has volunteered as a ranger for the park for over 20 years. He is a retired principal and teacher and can be found sharing his knowledge with park visitors using story-telling with historic photographs and nature painting classes. Copies of his book will be available for the discounted price of $23, including tax.
Ed, like most of the people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer. Your money directly supports the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/.

Difficulty: Easy, flat terrain

Remember to

  • Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. For sunny days, a hat with a brim may be needed.
  • Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
  • Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and for your camera, an extra battery, extra memory card, and lens-cleaning cloth.
  • No pets, please.
  • The exact meeting location will be found in your registration confirmation email.

Cancellation Policy: NHSM Field Experiences – Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a 5% processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.

Location

Patapsco Valley State Park