According to a2zcamerablog, Accident, Maryland is an unincorporated community in Garrett County. Located just off of I-68 and surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Accident is a small town with a population of just under 600 people.
The area was first inhabited by Native Americans, who used the land for hunting and fishing. The first settlers arrived in Accident in the early 19th century, and it was incorporated as a town in 1887. The town’s name is thought to have been derived from an incident involving a stagecoach which overturned near the settlement.
The area around Accident has long been known as one of the most beautiful parts of Maryland. With its rolling hills and lush forests, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this place. The nearby Youghiogheny River offers plenty of recreational opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, and tubing. In addition to outdoor activities, there are several unique attractions that make Accident worth visiting including the Garrett County Historical Society Museum and the Garrett County Fairgrounds which host events throughout the year such as rodeos, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and more!
Accident is home to several businesses including restaurants such as Hometown Pizza & Subs and Chet’s Country Store & Deli; shops such as Lariat Leather & Gifts; motels like Best Western Mountain Lake Inn; gas stations like Sheetz; banks like BB&T Bank; service stations like EZ Lube; convenience stores like 7-Eleven; automotive repair shops like T&T Automotive Repair; hardware stores like Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse; auto parts stores like AutoZone Auto Parts Store; pharmacies such as CVS Pharmacy; grocery stores such as Food Lion Grocery Store; liquor stores such as Total Wine & More Liquor Store; churches including St John’s Lutheran Church and Zion United Church of Christ; specialty shops including Mountain View Antiques & Collectibles; medical offices including Garrett Regional Medical Center; post offices; fire departments; public libraries; police departments; schools including Southern Middle School and Northern High School; parks including Maple Grove Park, Deep Creek Lake State Park, Swallow Falls State Park, Herrington Manor State Park, New Germany State Park, McHenry National Wildlife Refuge, Big Run State Park , Savage River State Forest, Green Ridge State Forest, Potomac-Garrett State Forest Complex, Rocky Gap State Park .
Accident is full of friendly folks who are always willing to lend a hand or provide advice about what to do around town. It’s no wonder why visitors often return year after year! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a quiet getaway spot – Accident has something for everyone.
History of Accident, Maryland
Accident, Maryland is a small town located in Garrett County, in the far western corner of the state. It was first founded in 1814 as a sawmill town by Jacob Strickler and his family. The name of the town was derived from an incident that occurred while the Stricklers were traveling to Maryland from Pennsylvania; they were involved in an accident with their wagon and decided to stay and settle in the area.
The early years of Accident were largely shaped by its proximity to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, which arrived in 1842. This provided a valuable connection to larger markets, allowing farmers and merchants to send their goods to distant towns and cities. As a result, Accident quickly grew into an important center for commerce and industry, with numerous businesses setting up shop along Main Street. The construction of the National Road (now US Route 40) also helped spur growth, allowing even more people to travel through the area on their way westward.
In addition to its commercial importance, Accident has also been known for its strong sense of community spirit over the years. In 1845, a schoolhouse was built at what would later become known as “the crossroads” – where Main Street intersects with Garrett Highway – providing education for local children. A church was also established around this time; today it is known as St Paul’s United Church of Christ and still serves as a spiritual center for many residents.
The turn of the century saw further development: electric lighting arrived in 1902; telephone service followed shortly thereafter; and in 1913, Accident became home to one of Maryland’s first movie theaters – The Picture Show House – which operated until 1925 when it was converted into a general store.
Throughout its history, Accident has retained much of its rural charm while also embracing modern conveniences such as high-speed internet access and nearby ski resorts like Wisp Resort at Deep Creek Lake State Park (which opened in 1960). It remains an inviting place for both visitors and residents alike who enjoy its small-town atmosphere combined with all that nature has to offer.
Today Accident is home to approximately 600 people who are proud of their hometown’s history while looking forward eagerly toward its future growth and development opportunities. From its humble beginnings as a sawmill town over two centuries ago through present day times when visitors come from near and far alike – there is no denying that Accident remains an important part of Maryland’s cultural landscape.
