Long before the towering Washington Monument in D.C., a smaller, more rugged tribute to George Washington rose up in Boonsboro MD. In 1827, local residents gathered on July 4 to begin constructing the nation’s first-ever monument dedicated to America’s first president. In a single day, they erected 15 feet of the stone structure, finishing the project by fall.
The Boonsboro Washington Monument, standing 30 feet tall at completion, is a simple stone tower. Its rough, cylindrical design reflects the community-driven effort behind its creation. Over time, the monument has faced wear and tear, but multiple restorations have preserved it.
Two nearby hikes pair well with a visit to Washington Monument State Park! Check out Weverton Cliffs and Annapolis Rocks hikes!
Today, you can take a short hike up to the monument, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Maryland countryside overlooking the Hagerstown Valley. The location played a vital role during the Civil War. The monument served as a signal station during the Battle of South Mountain in 1862.
Though less grand than its D.C. counterpart, the Boonsboro monument holds an important distinction. This humble structure was the first completed memorial to George Washington. A grassroots effort, Boonsboro built it 21 years before work even began on the more famous Washington Monument.
Today, the monument is a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. It sits along the Appalachian Trail and offers visitors both a historical experience and stunning vistas. In 1972, this first Washington Monument solidified its place in American history when the National Park Service added it to the National Register of Historic Places.
The Multiple Restorations of the Washington Monument
Perched atop South Mountain, the original Washington Monument endured years of weather, neglect and multiple restorations. This stone tower has seen several restoration efforts over nearly two centuries.
The first major repair came by necessity. By the mid-1800s, the monument had partially collapsed due to lack of maintenance. In 1882, local citizens rallied to rebuild the structure to its original height, a testament to the community’s pride in the landmark.
However, by the 1930s, the structure had deteriorated again. This time, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) stepped in to preserve the monument as part of New Deal efforts. Workers not only stabilized the foundation and restored the stone tower but also improved the surrounding landscape, creating a more accessible and inviting site.
Later, in the 1980s, further repairs addressed structural issues and cleaned the stonework. Preservationists replaced or restored damaged stones and ensured the monument’s long term stability.
By the 2000s, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources took charge of maintaining the monument as part of Washington Monument State Park. They enhanced trails, added interpretive signage, and continued to preserve the structure for future generations.
Today, the Washington Monument stands tall at 40 feet, a historic tribute to George Washington and a part of Maryland’s heritage. Ongoing preservation efforts ensure it remains a popular destination for hikers, particularly those along the Appalachian Trail, which runs through the park.
The Boonsboro Washington Monument is a small but enduring reminder of early American pride and the local communities that shaped the nation’s heritage.
Know Before You Go
Washington Monument State Park also has picnic facilities, including tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing. The park’s open spaces provide plenty of room for recreational activities. There are also several restrooms. There also is a small museum about the monument and the Civil War battle on South Mountain.
Getting there: 6620 Zittlestown Rd, Middletown, MD
Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset
Website: Washington Monument State Park