About our Heritage Area

Maryland’s Heritage Areas are locally designated and State certified regions where public and private partners make commitments to preserving historical, cultural and natural resources for sustainable economic development through heritage tourism. Garrett County’s unique heritage resources reflect Maryland’s pioneering spirit as western frontier lands were opened for settlement in the 18th and 19th centuries. As the county was settled, its abundance of natural resources provided for both industry and recreation. Even now in the 21st century, man and nature are still the driving force for the modern economy.

The Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area (MMGWHA) has four major themes: Transportation, including Braddock’s Trail and the National Road; Man and Nature, highlighting the county’s unique natural resources; Historic Recreation as Garrett County’s natural beauty has inspired travelers from all walks of life to visit and locate to the area; and Cultural Uniqueness, recounting the lives of various cultural groups that settled and have remained in the area. These key heritage topics best describe the local history, culture, archaeology, natural resources and transportation systems which depict the story of Garrett County’s development as Maryland’s Gateway to the West.

The geographic boundaries of the Garrett County Heritage Area are delineated in areas containing high concentrations of significant heritage resources. These areas encompass the towns of:

• Accident

• Deer Park

• Friendsville

• Grantsville

• Kitzmiller

• Loch Lynn Heights

• Mountain Lake Park

• Oakland

The unincorporated communities of McHenry and Bloomington are also included. In addition, the numerous Scenic Byways and the county-wide trail system provide alternative connections to even more heritage sites within the county.

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is the official Management Entity for the Heritage Area and also serves as the Destination Marketing Organization for the county. The Garrett County Heritage Manager administers the Heritage Area Program and works with a 15 member Heritage Area Advisory Board (HAAB) that assists with the administration of the Heritage Area Management Plan. The Chamber, in cooperation with the HAAB, strives to ensure that stakeholders and partners are represented in the county with the main goal being to implement the Heritage Plan and achieve the mission of the Heritage Area.

MISSION STATEMENT: To work with stakeholders, partners, and businesses to implement the Garrett County Heritage Plan by offering technical and financial assistance for heritage related initiatives that preserve valuable heritage resources and enhance tourism in the County.

      GOAL 1: Establish a management structure for the Garrett County Heritage Area.

      GOAL 2: Preserve, protect, and promote Garrett County's heritage resources.

      GOAL 3: Raise public awareness regarding Garrett County's history, culture and resources.

      GOAL 4: Increase economic development related to heritage tourism in Garrett County for the benefit       of Heritage Area stakeholders, partners and friends.

Check back regularly for updates on current projects, news, and events.

Also check-out our Facebook page Garrett County Heritage Area

This project has been financed in part with state funds from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority.