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“Bite-Size Bits of Local, National, and Global History”
 
 
 
 
 
 
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The Historic National Road Historical Markers

“The Road that Built the Nation.” The first (1811) federally funded road in the U.S. ran from Baltimore, Maryland to Vandalia, Illinois.
 
Greenville Marker image, Touch for more information
By Jason Voigt, January 3, 2020
Greenville Marker
1 Illinois, Bond County, Greenville — GreenvilleFinding a Place for Print
On North 4th Street at West Main Street, on the right when traveling south on North 4th Street.
Imagine a world without books--a frontier where print is a luxury, often out of reach. It's the world you would have known in 1815, when George Davidson settled the bluff overlooking Little Shoal Creek, just a short walk from where you stand. . . . Map (db m144131) HM
2 Illinois, Bond County, Greenville — History of Greenville-Bond County
On 3rd Street (Illinois Route 127) at Main Street, on the right when traveling north on 3rd Street.
Illinois Confederacy Indians roamed this prairie land, rich in game, which became Illinois County of Virginia. Ceded in 1784 to the United States it was successively included in the Northwest, Indiana; and in 1809, Illinois Territory. Formed in . . . Map (db m34169) HM
3 Illinois, Bond County, Greenville — Wells Judd Tire Sales
On North 2nd Street just south of West Oak Street, on the right when traveling south.
Built in 1918, this site was headquarters for Wells Judd Tire Sales, a Goodyear Tire Dealer for over 50 years. Managed by Earl Wildermann, it served the local tire and battery trade, as well as customers traveling on the National Trail. Restored in . . . Map (db m144108) HM
4 Illinois, Bond County, Mulberry Grove — Mulberry GroveThe Shake Rag Stop
On West Main Street (Illinois Route 140) just east of North Maple Street (Illinois Route 140), on the right when traveling east.
In the 1820s, not far from where you stand, passengers could board a stagecoach traveling west to Alton, Ill., or east to the Illinois Capitol at Vandalia. According to local lore, if passengers at the town tavern were waiting for a coach, the . . . Map (db m144132) HM
5 Illinois, Bond County, Pocahontas — PocahontasMuscle, Metal, and Merchandise
On State Street at Park Street, on the right when traveling east on State Street.
The village square may be quiet today, but from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s, the ring of hammers bending iron and shaping steel echoed down these streets. Northwest of where you stand, blacksmiths shaped horseshoes, linked chains, . . . Map (db m144110) HM
6 Illinois, Bond County, Smithboro — SmithboroNow Boarding for Henderson Station
On 2nd Street west of Washington Street, on the left when traveling west.
Where the Illinois Central Railroad saw land it didn't need, Henry Hedrick Smith saw opportunity. In the mid 1800s, Smith, an ambitious outspoken entrepreneur, bought 800 acres of Bond County prairie from Illinois Central. When the St. Louis, . . . Map (db m169984) HM
7 Illinois, Clark County, Casey — CaseyA Tale of Two Cities
On East Main Street west of 2nd Street, on the right when traveling east.
It's a story often told on the National Road. Two towns, both poised to prosper, grow up within walking distance of one another. One thrives. The other fades into the footnotes of history. In the 1830s, Ewing Chancellor settled land along an . . . Map (db m152559) HM
8 Illinois, Clark County, Casey — The Development of Casey
On West Main Street west of South Central Avenue (Illinois Route 49), on the right when traveling west.
With the opening of the National Road through this area, small communities began to the established along the route, one of which was Casey. The first settler was John Lang, a native of Scotland. Lang and family arrived from Ohio in 1838 and bought . . . Map (db m152488) HM
9 Illinois, Clark County, Casey — The Early Settlement of Cumberland
Near North 10th Street north of East Alabama Avenue, on the right when traveling north.
With the completion of the National Road (Cumberland Road) through Clark County in 1834, a settlement known as Cumberland was established in this vicinity. The settlement consisted mainly of workmen who moved here for the purpose of securing . . . Map (db m188290) HM
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10 Illinois, Clark County, Marshall — MarshallArcher's Avenue
On North 8th Street west of Michigan Avenue (Illinois Route 1), on the right when traveling south.
Built at the intersection of Illinois' first state road and America's first federal highway, Marshall was a gateway community for immigrants traveling west. It was founded in 1835 by Illinois Gov. Joseph Duncan and Col. William B. Archer. . . . Map (db m152562) HM
11 Illinois, Clark County, Marshall — Old Stone Arch Bridge
On National Road (Avery Avenue) (U.S. 40) east of Oak Crest Road, on the right when traveling west.
This Bridge was completed by Army Engineers sometime between 1834 and 1837 as part of the Old National Road, between Cumberland, Maryland and Vandalia, Illinois, was authorized by the enabling act of 1803 and was the Nation's first federally . . . Map (db m71127) HM
12 Illinois, Clark County, Marshall — The Archer HouseNational Historic Landmark
On Archer Avenue west of Michigan Avenue (Illinois Route 1), on the right when traveling east.
This structure was erected in 1841 by Col. Wm. B. Archer, founder of Marshall, and John Bartlett and has been in continuous use as a hotel. It was an important stage coach stop on the early Cumberland Road where many prominent people, including . . . Map (db m152564) HM
13 Illinois, Clark County, Martinsville — MartinsvilleThe Merchants of Main Street
On East Main Street west of Mill Street, on the right when traveling east.
Imagine you're traveling the National Road in the late 1800s. Your wagon is one of many trundling toward town. The dirt road is rough and the ride uncomfortable, but you welcome the trip. It's a day to visit with friends, catch up on news, and trade . . . Map (db m152560) HM
14 Illinois, Clark County, Martinsville — The Linn Family / The Rowe Foundry Anvil
On East Main Street at Mill Street, on the left when traveling east on East Main Street.
The Linn Family The ancestors of the Linn Family immigrated from Ireland in 1809. They eventually settled in Parker Township in Clark County Illinois, near Westfield in 1864. Walter Linn and his family moved to Martinsville in the late . . . Map (db m242006) HM
15 Illinois, Cumberland County, Greenup — "The Road that Built the Nation"
On Cumberland Road north of U.S. 40, on the right when traveling east.
[column 1:] "History of The National Road" Settlers had been moving west since the early 1700's. By 1802, so many farms and towns had been settled in the Ohio Valley that people living in the territory were calling for . . . Map (db m155631) HM
16 Illinois, Cumberland County, Greenup — Cumberland County Covered Bridge
On Cumberland Road north of U.S. 40, on the right when traveling east.
Historic Bridge Re-Created 177 years after the original Jackson Covered Bridge was constructed on this site a new bridge now spans the Embarass River. This structure re-creates as an original covered timber bridge that once stood on this . . . Map (db m152477) HM
17 Illinois, Cumberland County, Greenup — GreenupRails and Trails
On West Cumberland Street (Illinois Route 121) west of Mill Street, on the right when traveling east.
He was a man of vision. When William C. Greenup co-founded this village in 1834, the land around it was wilderness. But as Illinois Superintendent of the National Road, Greenup saw tremendous potential in the area adjacent to America's highway. . . . Map (db m152532) HM
18 Illinois, Cumberland County, Greenup — Old to New: Bridges over the Embarras River
On Cumberland Road north of U.S. 40, on the right when traveling east.
[column 1:] 1830 - Original Jackson Truss Bridge Excerpts from inspection report made in 1833: [Doc. No. 117] 23d Congress, 1st Session, HO. Of Reps. War Dept. May 14, 1834 "Inspection Cumberland Road and its . . . Map (db m155370) HM
19 Illinois, Cumberland County, Greenup — Site of Barbour Inn
On West Cumberland Street (Illinois Route 121) west of Mill Street, on the right when traveling east.
Site of Barbour Inn 1831, on Old National Trail, town established in 1836, by W.C. Greenup Map (db m152786) HM
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20 Illinois, Effingham County, Altamont — AltamontRising from the Prairie
On East Cumberland Road (U.S. 40) at South Ewing Street, on the left when traveling west on East Cumberland Road.
During the late 1800s, communities on the National Road were watching a new path to prosperity make its way across Illinois. By the time J.W. Conlogue, a superintendent with the St. Louis, Vandalia and Terre Haute Railroad, platted Altamont in 1870, . . . Map (db m169991) HM
21 Illinois, Effingham County, Dexter — National Road
Near Interstate 70, 5 miles east of Farina Road, on the right when traveling west.
The National Road, sometimes called the Cumberland Road or the Old Pike. Ran from Cumberland, Maryland, to Vandalia, Illinois the Illinois portion of the road was begun in 1830 and opened in the summer of 1838 it extended 89 miles from the . . . Map (db m161424) HM
22 Illinois, Effingham County, Effingham — EffinghamCrossroads of Opportunity
On East Jefferson Avenue west of South 3rd Street (U.S. 45), on the left when traveling east.
From 1871 to 2007, this courthouse was the heart of Effingham County government. For many cities on the National Road, a courthouse promised growth and prosperity. For others, it stood as silent testimony that fortunes change, and promises aren't . . . Map (db m152529) HM
23 Illinois, Effingham County, Montrose — MontroseDrummers, Drays and Railroad Days
On National Road (U.S. 40) east of Montgomery Street, on the left when traveling east.
In 1870, the St. Louis, Vandalia and Terre Haute rail line replaced the National Road as the fastest, most reliable route across Illinois. Drummers, or traveling salesmen, rode the rails from one town to the next. At the depot, the drummers' . . . Map (db m152531) HM
24 Illinois, Effingham County, Teutopolis — TeutopolisA Community Built On Faith
On West Main Street (U.S. 40) west of Pearl Street, on the right when traveling west.
They traveled West by horse and wagon, oxen and Conestoga, and by foot. They represented a staggering assortment of crafts, talents and trades. They emigrated from Germany in search of affordable land, economic opportunity, and political and . . . Map (db m152530) HM
25 Illinois, Fayette County, Brownstown — BrownstownTwin Pumps
On East Cumberland Road (U.S. 40) at South 3rd Street, on the right when traveling east on East Cumberland Road.
Nearly 100 years before Brownstown businesses offered fuel, food, and lodging to motorists following US 40 across America, there was Ezra Griffith and Twin Pumps. A New York native, Griffith followed the National Road to Fayette County, Ill., . . . Map (db m144228) HM
26 Illinois, Fayette County, St. Elmo — St. ElmoPlanes, Trains, and Automobiles
On East Cumberland Road (U.S. 40) at South Olive Street, on the right when traveling east on East Cumberland Road.
St. Elmo's history is rooted in the dust of a settlement named Howard's Point. Hamlets like Howard's Point relied on the National Road to sustain their businesses. Some of these small settlements grew into cities. Others faded as their . . . Map (db m144229) HM
27 Illinois, Fayette County, Vandalia — Cumberland Road
On 4th Street at Gallatin Street, on the right when traveling north on 4th Street.
Vandalia was the western terminus of the Cumberland or National Road which extended eighty feet wide for 591 miles from Cumberland, Maryland through Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. Illinois construction by the Federal Government began in 1811 and . . . Map (db m42345) HM
28 Illinois, Fayette County, Vandalia — Madonna of the TrailThe National Old Trails Road
On Gallatin Street at 4th Street, on the left when traveling east on Gallatin Street.
N·S·D·A·R Memorial to the Pioneer Mothers of the Covered Wagon Days The Cumberland Road. Built by the Federal Government. Was authorized by Congress and approved by Thomas Jefferson in 1806. Vandalia marks the . . . Map (db m42341) HM
29 Illinois, Fayette County, Vandalia — VandaliaEnd of The Road
On Gallatin Street just west of South 4th Street, on the right when traveling west.
In 1828 Joseph Shriver surveyed the National Road from Indiana to the Illinois capital at Vandalia. Between the Wabash and Kaskaskia rivers, he found little more than wilderness. By the mid-1830s, the National Road had spawned settlements in . . . Map (db m144226) HM
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30 Illinois, Fayette County, Vandalia — Welcome to the National Road Interpretive CenterVandalia, Illinois
On South 5th Street just north of West Gallatin Street, on the right when traveling north.
Come inside and live the story of the Historic National Road, the road that built the nation. Just thirty years after declaring independence from the British, the young nation was feeling the growing pains of westward expansion. President Thomas . . . Map (db m144185) HM
31 Illinois, Fayette County, Vandalia — William C. GreenupAug. 28, 1785 - June 10, 1853
Born in Maryland. Clerk of First General Assembly of Illinois Territory, Kaskaskia 1812. Clerk of House of Representatives and of Legislative Council, 1815. Clerk of Constitutional Convention 1818. Secretary of Senate 1818-20. Chief Surveyor of . . . Map (db m42374) HM
32 Illinois, Madison County, Collinsville — CollinsvilleMain Street of America
On North Combs Avenue just north of West Main Street, on the left when traveling south.
Imagine Main Street in the early 1900s. Horses pull supply wagons stocked with fruits, vegetables, and dry goods to shops facing the thoroughfare. Trolleys bounce and clang as they trundle down rails at the street's center. Bicyclists weave between . . . Map (db m144068) HM
33 Illinois, Madison County, Highland — HighlandFresh Horses and New Courses
On Broadway, 0.1 miles west of Swallow Lane, on the right when traveling west.
During the era of stagecoach travel, the building before you played an important role. It anchored a relay station. Coach journeys were broken into stages of about 10 miles. At the end of each stage, drivers stopped at a relay station like . . . Map (db m144107) HM
34 Illinois, Madison County, St. Jacob — St. JacobThe St. Louis Wagon Road
On Park Drive just south of West Main Street, on the right when traveling south.
In the mid 1800s, roughly a quarter-mile east of where you stand, Madison County residents carved a settlement from farm fields, prairie grass, broken forests, and the National Road. Here, the National Road was little more than a scraped-earth . . . Map (db m144106) HM
35 Illinois, Madison County, Troy — Crossroads of Transportation
On East Market Street (Illinois Route 162) at South Hickory Street, on the right when traveling east on East Market Street.
Today, many families find Troy an ideal place to live because of its physical location - close to St. Louis, near Scott Air Force Base and in the midst of the I 55 -70 - 270 exchange. Early settlers and townspeople found much the same . . . Map (db m176313) HM
36 Illinois, Madison County, Troy — TroyCabins, Coaches and Coal Mines
On East Center Street (Illinois Route 162) at Cheshire Road, on the left when traveling east on East Center Street.
"It looks like home." That's what Frederick Mersinger might say if he could see the cabin in this park. The building was reconstructed from photos of a log home purchased by Mersinger in 1859. Generations of Mersingers grew up in the house, south . . . Map (db m144083) HM
37 Illinois, St. Clair County, Collinsville — Cahokia MoundsThe Road to America's Oldest City
On Ramey Drive, 0.3 miles south of Collinsville Road, on the right when traveling south.
In 1806, President Thomas Jefferson signed legislation creating America's first federal highway. The National Road would join the bustling cities of the East to the resource-rich wilderness of the West, connecting state capitals, county seats, . . . Map (db m144040) HM
38 Illinois, St. Clair County, Fairmont City — Fairmont CityThe Road to America
On North 44th Street south of Collinsville Road, on the right when traveling north.
Between 1880 and 1920, nearly 24 million immigrants arrived in the United States. Many found work in the mines, mills, and factories of America's rapidly expanding industrial sector. In 1913 American Zinc, Lead and Smelting Company established . . . Map (db m167916) HM
39 Indiana, Clay County, Brazil — You Are HereHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built the Nation —
On East National Avenue (U.S. 40) west of Forest Avenue (Indiana Route 59), on the left when traveling east.
Brazil, just like her sister US 40 communities, prospered due to its location on the National Road. With the 1926 designation of the National Road as US 40, Brazil instantly became linked with the rest of the nation. Almost every raw material, . . . Map (db m233271) HM
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40 Indiana, Hancock County, Greenfield — Information on the MoveHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built The Nation —
On South State Street (U.S. 40) at South State Street (Indiana Route 9), on the left when traveling west on South State Street.
Information always travels by the best available technology. In the 19th century, the National Road (Main Street) along which you now stand, represented the latest in state-of-the-art communications. Today many of us rely on sophisticated . . . Map (db m130948) HM
41 Indiana, Hendricks County, Plainfield — EatHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built the Nation —
On West Main Street (U.S. 40) west of West Street, on the right when traveling east.
A waitress named Marge. A red vinyl stool at the counter. The pie case and the bottomless cup of coffee. Diners were America's first fast-food restaurants. As automobile traffic increased on the National Road in the 1920s, diners sprang up to . . . Map (db m233274) HM
42 Indiana, Henry County, Knightstown — A Gargantuan UndertakingHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built The Nation —
On East Main Street (U.S. 40) at North Washington Street, on the right when traveling west on East Main Street.
Constructing the National Road through Indiana in the early 19th century was a monumental task. The road, which crossed the rich soil of Indiana, connected people, wealth, and commerce and linked the state to the rest of the nation. Increased . . . Map (db m233244) HM
43 Indiana, Henry County, Knightstown — The National Road — West
On National Road (U.S. 40) west of West Street, on the right when traveling west. Reported missing.
Knightstown—first town platted on National Road after survey, 1827—named after noted surveyor Jonathan Knight. Home of American Communications Network founded, in 1966, to preserve and perpetuate the “Ideals that built . . . Map (db m139247) HM
44 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Downtown — Marion CountyOrganized in 1822 — Named for Francis Marion —
Near North Blackford Street north of Indianapolis Cultural Trail, on the right when traveling north.
The Capital Commission, meeting near what would become the junction of the National Road and White River, identified the location as the site for the new state capital in 1822. Alexander Ralston and Elias P. Fordham, influenced by Pierre Charles . . . Map (db m238989) HM
45 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Downtown — National Road Legacy Project
Near Central White River Trail south of Downtown Canal Walk, on the right when traveling north.
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials dedicates this brick pathway as its 2000 inaugural Legacy Project, designed to promote the spirit of community and transportation partnership. This Legacy Project commemorates . . . Map (db m239047) HM
46 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Downtown — Politicians, Poets, and Lion TamersHistoric National Road — The Road That Built the Nation —
Near Central White River Trail at Indianapolis Cultural Trail, on the right when traveling west.
In 1842 former President Martin Vin Buren was unceremoniously toppled from his carriage on the muddy National Road in Plainfield, Indiana. The Hoosier "welcoming committee" was still angry over his veto of a bill to provide much needed funding to . . . Map (db m239039) HM
47 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Downtown — Vigo CountyOrganized in 1818 — Named for Francis Vigo —
Near North Blackford Street north of Indianapolis Cultural Trail, on the right when traveling north.
Sitting at the junction of the National Road and the Wabash River, Vigo County has played a vital role in the transportation of goods to and from Indiana markets. Terre Haute means "high ground" and reflects early French influence in the area. Paul . . . Map (db m238840) HM
48 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Downtown — Wayne CountyOrganized in 1811 — Named for Anthony Wayne —
Near North Blackford Street north of Indianapolis Cultural Trail, on the right when traveling north.
National Old Trail Road in Wayne County is marked by the 18-foot high Madonna of the Trail statue. The National Road was a primary route for immigration into Indiana and provided access to essential eastern markets for Hoosier companies. Two such . . . Map (db m238934) HM
49 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Irvington — Historic National RoadNational Road in Marion County — Opening Up the West —
On Old National Road (U.S. 40) at North Layman Ave., on the right when traveling west on Old National Road.
Side A National Road in Marion County Workers built the National Road through this area in the 1830s, nearly four decades before Irvington’s founding. A constant stream of travelers on the road drew business to the area. The first commercial . . . Map (db m174717) HM
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50 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Mile Square — Historic National Road / Make History, Drive ItThe Road That Built The Nation
On West Washington Street at Senate Avenue, on the right when traveling west on West Washington Street.
An Important Road The National Road is a true American icon, conceived by George Washington, authorized by Thomas Jefferson, and traveled by Abraham Lincoln. In 1806 construction of the National Road was approved by the US Congress to . . . Map (db m232658) HM
51 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Mile Square — Indiana's Main StreetHistoric National Road — The Road That Built The Nation
On West Washington Street west of North Meridian Street, on the left when traveling west. Reported damaged.
You are standing on Washington Street—the route of the Historic National Road in Indiana. In the early 19th century, this broad street had no sidewalks and was lined with log buildings and frame taverns that crowded near the newly constructed state . . . Map (db m132794) HM
52 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Mile Square — The National Road / Indiana Centennial
On W. Washington Street.
. . . Map (db m239050) HM
53 Indiana, Marion County, Indianapolis, Wayne — Site of "Masonic Well"
On West Washington Street (U.S. 40) at Bridgeport Road, on the left when traveling west on West Washington Street.
During westward migration along old National Road, thousands of horses were watered at this widely known public watering place. Town pump and trough maintained as community service by Bridgeport Lodge No. 162, F. & A. M., organized 1854.Map (db m174953) HM
54 Indiana, Putnam County, Coatesville — Destination IndianaHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built the Nation —
On U.S. 40 east of Indiana Route 240, on the right when traveling east.
"Are we there yet?" For emigrants traveling along the National Road in Indiana, the answer was a resounding "YES!" Many of us move for the same reasons: new jobs, attractive settings, and nice houses. In the 19th century, thousands moved west . . . Map (db m233272) HM
55 Indiana, Vigo County, Terre Haute — 84.1998.1 — Crossroads of America
On U.S. 40 at North Seventh Street (Old U.S. 41), on the right when traveling west on U.S. 40.
U.S. Highway 40, the old National Road which opened the West for settlement, and U.S. Highway 41, a major North-South route, were designated part of the original Federal Highway System in 1926. Their intersection in Terre Haute at Wabash Avenue and . . . Map (db m8925) HM
56 Indiana, Vigo County, Terre Haute — Destination AnywhereHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built the Nation —
Near Robinwood Lane north of Wabash Avenue (U.S. 40).
The road in front of you was once the most important highway in the United States. Head west and you could go all the way to San Francisco. Head east and you could drive to Atlantic City. Depending on your choice, you'd have the opportunity to cross . . . Map (db m233365) HM
57 Indiana, Vigo County, Terre Haute — Historic National Road / Make History, Drive ItThe Road That Built the Nation
On Wabash Avenue west of Schaal Avenue, on the right when traveling west.
An Important Road The National Road is a true American icon, conceived by George Washington, authorized by Thomas Jefferson, and traveled by Abraham Lincoln. In 1806 construction of the National Road was approved by the US Congress to open . . . Map (db m233002) HM
58 Indiana, Wayne County, Cambridge City — 89.1992.2 — Cambridge City
On West Main Street (U.S. 40) at Foote Street, on the left when traveling west on West Main Street.
A transportation center, platted 1836 along the Whitewater River, the Cumberland/National Road, and the Whitewater Canal route. Four steam railroads served the town; interurban electric railroad opened 1903. Cambridge City Historic District listed . . . Map (db m63949) HM
59 Indiana, Wayne County, Cambridge City — Huddleston House1839 1940
On National Road (U.S. 40), on the left when traveling east.
Built by John Huddleston of bricks made on this farm. Located on the old National Road now U.S. Highway 40. The house is typical of the architecture of the period. Pioneers going west in covered wagons found food and shelter here. . . . Map (db m152014) HM
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60 Indiana, Wayne County, Centerville — Pike TownsHistoric National Road / Make History, Drive It — The Road That Built The Nation —
On E. Main Street (U.S. 40) at N. First Street, on the right when traveling west on E. Main Street.
(Side One) The National Road--along which you now stand—arrived here in Centerville in 1832. Centerville was an early "pike town". Regularly spaced about a day's journey apart by wagon, pike towns welcomed travelers and catered to . . . Map (db m69309) HM
61 Indiana, Wayne County, Richmond — Historic National Road / Make History, Drive ItThe Road That Built the Nation
On Old National Road (U.S. 40) at Industrial Parkway, on the left when traveling west on Old National Road.
An Important Road The National Road is a true American icon, conceived by George Washington, authorized by Thomas Jefferson, and traveled by Abraham Lincoln. In 1806 construction of the National Road was approved by the US Congress . . . Map (db m139348) HM
62 Indiana, Wayne County, Richmond — Madonna of the Trail
On East Main Street (U.S. 40) near North 22th Street, on the left when traveling east.
(Southwest Face) N.S.D.A.R. Memorial to the Pioneer Mothers of the Covered Wagon Days. (Northwest Face) A Nation's Highway! Once a wilderness trail over which hardy pioneers made their perilous way seeking new homes in the dense forests of the . . . Map (db m244) HM
63 Indiana, Wayne County, Richmond — Madonna of the TrailSide Marker
On East Main Street (U.S. 40) at North 22nd Street, on the right when traveling west on East Main Street.
The Madonna of the Trail statue, commissioned by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, was designed and sculpted by August Leimbach of St. Louis, Missouri. It symbolizes the courage, faith, and spirit of the pioneer mothers who . . . Map (db m138880) HM
64 Indiana, Wayne County, Richmond — The First Toll Gate
On East Main Street (U.S. 40) near North 22th Street, on the left when traveling east.
This tablet marks the site of the first toll gate in the state of Indiana erected about 1850.Map (db m288) HM
65 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — “The Narrows”
On National Highway (Alternate U.S. 40), on the right when traveling north.
One of the most picturesque spots around Cumberland. Discovered by Spendelow after the road over Wills Mountain had been constructed by General Braddock. Adopted as the route of the Cumberland Road (The National Road) 1833. The old stone bridge . . . Map (db m187070) HM
66 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — Church of St. Patrick, Cumberland
On North Centre Street at Market Street, on the right when traveling west on North Centre Street.
A log chapel dedicated to St. Mary was built on this site in 1791. The first parishioners were mostly English Catholics from Southern Maryland. A brick church replaced the log building in 1939. Cumberland became a major center of transportation and . . . Map (db m134394) HM
67 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — Crossroads of America Mural
On Canal Street, 0.1 miles north of West Harrison Street, on the left when traveling north.
About this sign The outline drawing above represents the heritage-themed mural to your right. The mural is organized chronologically into sections. Each section is described here, with accompanying historic images.. . . . Map (db m140048) HM
68 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — CumberlandTown Map and Directory
On Canal Street just north of West Harrison Street, on the left when traveling north.
Downtown Cumberland The Flood of March 29, 1924 inflicted almost $5 million worth of destruction in the City of Cumberland. Telephone, telegraph, roads and electric wires were washed away. Though not as bad, another flood occurred on May 12th . . . Map (db m139111) HM
69 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — Cumberland
On Great Allegheny Passage, 0.1 miles north of Baltimore Street, on the left when traveling north.
In 1749 Christopher Gist, an agent for the Ohio Company, arrived at the junction of the Wills Creek and the North Branch of the Potomac River to erect a trading post. In anticipation of the French and Indian War a fort was constructed in 1754 . . . Map (db m139113) HM
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70 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — Cumberland Gateway Westward — Fort Cumberland Trail —
Near Greene St..
Will's Creek Settlement, later known as Cumberland, served as a major gateway for trade, military campaigns against the French, and settlement beyond the mountains in our growing nation. "The New Storehouses" of the Ohio Company were across the . . . Map (db m17783) HM
71 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — The NarrowsAn Easier Route for the National Road — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On National Highway (U.S. 40), on the right when traveling north. Reported permanently removed.
At first, the National Road climbed west from Cumberland up and over Haystack Mountain. In the 1830s, when the road was rebuilt, a new route was chosen. It would be a mile longer but the grade was substantially decreased so that horse teams could . . . Map (db m4926) HM
72 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — The NarrowsAn Easier Route for the National Road — The Road That Built The Nation —
On National Highway Southwest (Alternate U.S. 40) 0.4 miles north of North Mechanic Street, on the right when traveling north.
At first, the National Road climbed west from Cumberland up and over Haystack Mountain. In the 1830s, when the road was rebuilt, a new route was chosen. It would be a mile longer but the grade was substantially decreased so that horse teams could . . . Map (db m243570) HM
73 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — The National RoadThe Road that Built the Nation — The Road That Built The Nation —
On W. Harrison Street, on the right when traveling south.
“… so many happy people, restless in the midst of abundance.” —Alexis de Tocqueville, 1840.
Americans are an adventurous people. From past to present, they have used feet, horses, wagons, stagecoaches, . . . Map (db m67479) HM
74 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — The Old National Pike — Fort Cumberland Trail —
On Greene St. at Bridge Street on Greene St..
The National Pike was also called the National Road (used national funds) or the Cumberland Road (began in Cumberland). Behind you and to the right along the base of the hill, were the storehouses of The Ohio Company. The earliest trails were made . . . Map (db m167058) HM
75 Maryland, Allegany County, Cumberland — Where the Road Began — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built the Nation —
On Greene Street at Bridge Street on Greene Street.
You are standing at the starting point of this country's first federal road building project, the National Road. A vision of George Washington as a means to develop the continent and to unite the country, his idea was championed by Thomas . . . Map (db m17716) HM
76 Maryland, Allegany County, Flintstone — Martins MountainSunday Drivers and “Tin-Can Tourists" — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation —
Near Pleasant Valley Road Northeast.
The National Road enjoyed a revival from about 1910-1960, with the rising popularity of the automobile. Tourist travel began in earnest when cars became reliable enough for the average person to take a long trip. “Waysiders,” people who catered to . . . Map (db m4922) HM
77 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — Blazing Braddock's Road
On Historic National Road (Alternate U.S. 40), on the left when traveling west. Reported missing.
“We this day passed the ‘Aligany’ Mountain (Big Savage Mountain) which is a rocky ascent of more than two miles, in many places extremely steep…” Captain Robert Orme, June 15, 1755 British General Edward Braddock led a 2,100-man army . . . Map (db m177978) HM
78 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — FrostburgThe Frost Family Legacy — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On East Main Street (Alternate U.S. 40) east of Broadway, on the left when traveling east. Reported permanently removed.
Years before St. Michael’s Church was built, Meshach Frost and his wife Catherine purchased this property in 1812. When the Frosts bought the property, construction of the National Road was already underway. They soon found they were feeding . . . Map (db m3551) HM
79 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — FrostburgThe National Road, Coal and Fancy Hotels — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On East Main Street west of Water Street, on the right when traveling east. Reported permanently removed.
The National Road has sustained Frostburg for almost two centuries. As the road was being surveyed in 1811, Josiah Frost began laying out lots. Businesses, serving passing stagecoaches and wagons, soon lined a developing Main Street. By . . . Map (db m3553) HM
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80 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — FrostburgThe National Road, Coal and Fancy Hotels — The Road That Built The Nation —
On West Main Street (U.S. 40) west of South Water Street, on the left when traveling west.
The National Road has sustained Frostburg for almost two centuries. As the road was being surveyed in 1811, Josiah Frost began laying out lots. Businesses, serving passing stagecoaches and wagons, soon lined a developing Main Street. By the . . . Map (db m199906) HM
81 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — FrostburgThe Frost Family Legacy — The Road That Built The Nation —
On East Main Street (Alternate U.S. 40) 0.1 miles west of Depot Trace, on the right when traveling west.
Years before St. Michael's Church was built, Meshach Frost and his wife Catherine purchased this property in 1812. When the Frosts bought the property, construction of the National Road was already underway. They soon found they were feeding and . . . Map (db m199913) HM
82 Maryland, Allegany County, Frostburg — The Naming of Frostburg
On Depot Street.
Contrary to popular belief that it was named for its frigid winter weather, Frostburg can trace its history back to 1800 when the community was known as Mt. Pleasant. By the time the National Road (authorized by Congress in 1806) opened through in . . . Map (db m167992) HM
83 Maryland, Allegany County, La Vale — "The Gateway to the West"
On National Highway (Alternate U.S. 40) 0.4 miles west of Winchester Road (Maryland Route 53), on the left when traveling west.
Dedicated to the pioneers who with heroic sacrifice and undaunted courage blazed this old trail now known as the National Highway and thus opened "The Gateway to the West"Map (db m199894) HM
84 Maryland, Allegany County, La Vale — First Toll Gate House
On National Highway SW (U.S. 40), on the left when traveling west.
First toll gate house on the old National (Cumberland) Road. Erected about 1833 after this portion of the road was turned over to the State of Maryland by the United States government. There was one other toll gate in Maryland on this Road.Map (db m442) HM
85 Maryland, Allegany County, La Vale — The La Vale Toll HouseThe Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
Near National Highway SW (U.S. 40), on the left when traveling west. Reported permanently removed.
Toll houses were built along the National Road as a result of a 25 year national debate as to whether or not the federal government should be responsible for funding road improvements. While there was agreement on the idea that those who used the . . . Map (db m443) HM
86 Maryland, Allegany County, La Vale — The La Vale Toll House — The Road That Built The Nation —
On National Highway (Alternate U.S. 40) 0.4 miles west of Winchester Road (Maryland Route 53), on the left when traveling west.
Toll houses were built along the National Road as a result of a 25 year national debate as to whether or not the federal government should be responsible for funding road improvements. While there was agreement on the idea that those who used the . . . Map (db m199902) HM
87 Maryland, Allegany County, La Vale — The National Road(Called The Cumberland Road)
On National Highway (Alternate U.S. 40) west of Mary Court, on the left when traveling west.
Was the first of the internal improvements undertaken by the U.S. Government. Surveys were authorized in 1806 over the route of “Braddock’s Road,” which followed “Nemacolin’s Path,” an Indian trail, over which George . . . Map (db m167131) HM
88 Maryland, Allegany County, Little Orleans — Town Hill OverlookThe Beauty Spot of Maryland — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On National Pike (U.S. 40), on the left when traveling west. Reported permanently removed.
The long, winding ascent of Town Hill reaches a height just beyond that of Sideling Hill, but was much more easily crossed. However, early automobiles were still no match for the steep grades and tight turns along this section of the National . . . Map (db m20986) HM
89 Maryland, Allegany County, Little Orleans — Town Hill OverlookThe Beauty Spot of Maryland — The Road That Built The Nation —
On National Pike Northeast (Scenic U.S. 40) at Tower Road, on the right when traveling east on National Pike Northeast.
The long, winding ascent of Town Hill reaches a height just beyond that of Sideling Hill, but was much more easily crossed. However, early automobiles were still no match for the steep grades and tight turns along this section of the National . . . Map (db m199930) HM
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90 Maryland, Baltimore, Bromo Arts District — The Baltimore & Frederick-Town TurnpikeA Transportation Revolution started here — The Road That Built The Nation —
On West Baltimore Street west of North Eutaw Street, on the left when traveling east.
Maryland toll roads helped revolutionize American travel. The Baltimore and Frederick-Town Turnpike began with a tollgate, placed near this corner in 1807. For a few cents, you could head west on a "smooth" road that was the ancestor of today's . . . Map (db m243468) HM
91 Maryland, Baltimore, Carroll-South Hilton — Bridging Gwynns Falls
On West Baltimore Street, on the right when traveling west.
The lofty, triple-arched Baltimore Street Bridge was built here in 1932 to provide better access across the Gwynns Falls Valley to the city's rapidly developing west side. Earlier, the Frederick Turnpike crossed farther south on a relatively . . . Map (db m6351) HM
92 Maryland, Baltimore, Carroll-South Hilton — Gwynns Falls ValleyFrom Work to Play — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation —
Near Frederick Avenue (Maryland Route 144), on the right when traveling west.
As the Baltimore and Frederick-Town Turnpike twisted and turned westward, it passed one of the centers of early city industry. A three mile long millrace on the Gwynns Falls provided power for over twenty mills that sawed wood, ground flour, wove . . . Map (db m167307) HM
93 Maryland, Baltimore, Downtown — The Baltimore & Frederick-Town TurnpikeA Transportation Revolution started here — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On West Baltimore Street, on the left when traveling east. Reported permanently removed.
Maryland toll roads helped revolutionize American travel. The Baltimore and Frederick-Town Turnpike began with a tollgate, placed near this corner in 1807. For a few cents, you could head west on a “smooth” road that was the ancestor of today’s . . . Map (db m5700) HM
94 Maryland, Baltimore, Inner Harbor — The Port of BaltimoreThe National Road begins and ends here — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation —
Near Pratt Street.
Moving Goods Since 1729, Baltimore has owed its existence to its deepwater port. The city looks east to the Chesapeake Bay and ports around the world. It also looks west with access to markets in America’s heartland. It began with local farmers . . . Map (db m6140) HM
95 Maryland, Baltimore, Irvington — IrvingtonThe Last Stop before Baltimore — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation —
On Frederick Avenue (Maryland Route 144) at Woodington Road on Frederick Avenue.
Before Irvington existed, eastbound travelers encountered the last hill on the Baltimore and Frederick-Town Turnpike. The turnpike was part of the system of roads that connected to the National Road in Cumberland in 1806. During the 1800s, this . . . Map (db m114592) HM
96 Maryland, Baltimore, Pigtown — Railroads Eclipse a National Road“Thus will scientific power conquer space.” — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
Near West Pratt Street (U.S. 40). Reported permanently removed.
For several decades in the early 1800s, thousands of Conestoga Wagons, “ships of inland commerce,” ruled the National Road. With their sloping bodies, wheels taller than a man and six-horse teams skillfully maneuvered with a single “jerk line,” . . . Map (db m5705) HM
97 Maryland, Baltimore, Pigtown — The National RoadThe Road that Built the Nation — The Historic National Road - The Road That Built The Nation
On West Pratt Street (U.S. 40). Reported permanently removed.
“… so many happy people, restless in the midst of abundance.” —Alexis de Tocqueville, 1840.
Americans are an adventurous people. From past to present, they have used feet, horses, wagons, stagecoaches, canals, . . . Map (db m5703) HM
98 Maryland, Baltimore, Pigtown — The National RoadThe Historic National Road, America's First Federally Funded Highway
On South Poppleton Street just south of West Pratt Street, on the left when traveling south.
The National Road was the first American highway funded by Congress. Construction began in 1811 for a 620-mile route starting at Cumberland, Maryland, and, by 1841, extending to Vandalia, IL. Designed for stagecoaches and Conestoga wagons taking . . . Map (db m243533) HM
99 Maryland, Baltimore, Pigtown — The Underground RailroadThe Historic National Road, America's First Federally Funded Highway
On South Poppleton Street just south of West Pratt Street, on the left when traveling east.
The Underground Railroad was a network of American abolitionists who aided and sheltered 100,000 African Americans seeking freedom from enslavement in the South. These Freedom Seekers often journeyed north by land, and many crossed into the free . . . Map (db m243532) HM
100 Maryland, Baltimore County, Catonsville — 6-Mile Marker on the National Road1787
On Frederick Road (Maryland Route 144), on the right when traveling west.
This 6-miles-to-Baltimore marker was welcomed by thousands on horseback, in stagecoaches and wagons, who traveled this Frederick Turnpike. Some headed west to settle in the Ohio Valley, along with merchants selling their wares, while millers with . . . Map (db m39347) HM

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Apr. 18, 2024