President George Washington has history in just about every county in Maryland, but did you know you can walk in his footsteps in Allegany County?

It’s true! On the George Washington Trail 1753, retrace the steps of Washington’s first military and diplomatic venture to Pittsburgh, PA, through Allegany County. The mission? To deliver a diplomatic message to the French from the Virginia Governor ordering them to evacuate what is present day western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio.

Blue trailblazer signs guide the way to three locations of significance throughout Washington’s military career. Washington was unsuccessful in getting the French to vacate and had to deliver the news when he returned to Williamsburg in 1754. This marked the beginning of the military struggle known as the French and Indian War.

Do you have a fun fact to share about your county? If so, please send it to Allison Valliant to be featured in MACo’s weekly Fun Fact on Conduit Street.