For seniors, it’s “Hub City”, Hagerstown

Hagerstown, seat of Washington County, is by many definitions the largest city in a region known as Western Maryland. The population runs right at 41,000. Today, in keeping with its rich history, senior travelers will find the “Hub City” at the crossroads of two major interstates I-70 and I-81. It serves as gateway to the Baltimore and the Washington, D.C. area as well as the “hub” of government, commerce and recreation for the tri-state area.

Hagerstown was founded in 1762 by Jonathan Hager, a gunsmith, fur trader, farmer and politician. After settling he quickly increased his wealth and expanded his land holdings, acquiring over 10,000 acres which he used to layout plans for the town. It was originally named Elizabethtowne, in honor of his wife, but was later changed to Hagerstown in his own honor.

Hagerstown was situated at the crossroads of the “Warrior Trading Path,” the Eastern Native American North/South Trading Route, which is modern day Route 11 and the First National Road, now Route 40. The town grew quickly and was a prized location for transportation of all kinds from covered wagon to nearby river navigation.

Seniors Relax in Most Beautiful City Park

Ask locals if necessary, seniors, but search out the Burnside’s Bridge, a site of heavy combat in the Battle of Antietam, which occurred south of Hagerstown. Hagerstown has been a major crossroads for railroads and for highway traffic for over two hundred years.

One of the best kept secrets of this city is its city park where seniors will find the Hager House, the original home of Jonathan Hager, the founder of the city, the Mansion House Arts Center, a huge lake and fountain, and, for the railroad lovers, a railroad museum. 

The Hagerstown City Park has been rated by many as the Most Beautiful City Park In America. Stop at the park and judge for yourself. Pack a picnic for an even better experience.

Good ‘ol TripAdvisor has lined up 30 things to do in Hagerstown starting with Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

Seniors In The Middle Of Rich History

Washington County is known for its rich history. Located in the crossroads of the Civil War, it is home to South Mountain State Battlefield, Antietam National Battlefield, and the July 1863 Battle of Hagerstown. Washington County also has a rich cultural scene.

The Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District is home to the Maryland Theatre which offers year-round performances and events, including Maryland Symphony Orchestra concerts.

Hagerstown is also home to the Western Maryland Blues Fest. The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, located in scenic City Park, boasts an outstanding permanent collection with an active schedule of exhibitions, concerts, lectures, films, and special events for all ages.

Senior visitors can enjoy a big city type of nightlife. So plan to check out Hagerstown when you are in western Maryland. You will enjoy the visit.  -jeb