Near Grantsville in Garrett County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Negro Mountain
The Highest Point on the National Road
— The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation —
You have reached the highest point on the National Road. Here, in the far western mountains of Maryland is the backbone of eastern America. In 1817, the National Road construction crew took on the challenge of crossing this tough terrain by laying a crushed stone road surface and building a stone bridge over nearby Puzzley Run.
By the 1930s, the National Road evolved into an asphalt and concrete ribbon. This improved road surface inspired a new generation of travelers to “hit the road,” and a new road culture began to emerge. Although the curves were straightened, and the grade a bit gentler, travel was still tough over Negro Mountain.
At almost 3000 feet, this is the highest point on the National Road through all six states. Descending Negro Mountain required early drivers to pay close attention to their brakes.
High Point camp catered to travelers that commonly packed camping gear and joined other auto campers in grounds provided by entrepreneurs.
The Naming of Negro Mountain. Nemesis, a black frontiersman, was killed here while fighting Indians with Maryland frontiersman Thomas Cresap in the 1750s. Legend tells us that he had a premonition of his death. In his honor, they named this mountain after him.
Erected by America's Byways.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Natural Resources • Roads & Vehicles. In addition, it is included in the The Historic National Road series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1817.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 39° 42.374′ N, 79° 12.68′ W. Marker was near Grantsville, Maryland, in Garrett County. Marker was at the intersection of National Pike (Alternate U.S. 40) and Zehner Road, on the left when traveling west on National Pike. Marker is at a roadside picnic area at the crest of the mountain. Touch for map. Marker was at or near this postal address: 5386 National Pike, Grantsville MD 21536, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this location, measured as the crow flies. A different marker also named Negro Mountain (here, next to this marker); Keyser's Ridge (approx. 2.1 miles away); General Braddock’s 5th Camp (approx. 2.1 miles away); The Fuller-Baker House (approx. 2.2 miles away); The National Road (approx. 3 miles away); Leo J. Beachy (approx. 3 miles away); Casselman Hotel (approx. 3.2 miles away); Traveling the National Road (approx. 3.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Grantsville.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has been replaced with the linked marker.
Also see . . . A photo essay showing the Puzzley Run bridge and road relocation. (Submitted on March 31, 2008, by Christopher Busta-Peck of Shaker Heights, Ohio.)
Credits. This page was last revised on November 28, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 18, 2006, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio. This page has been viewed 18,229 times since then and 106 times this year. Last updated on February 15, 2008, by Christopher Busta-Peck of Shaker Heights, Ohio. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 18, 2006, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio. 3. submitted on March 31, 2008, by Christopher Busta-Peck of Shaker Heights, Ohio. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.