Bel Alton, Maryland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bel Alton, Maryland
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Northbound US 301 as it enters Bel Alton, Maryland; November 2021.
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 Bel Alton, Maryland
Location in Maryland
Bel Alton, Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Maryland |
| County | Charles |
| Time zone | UTC−5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−4 (EDT) |
| ZIP code |
20611
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| Area code(s) | 240 and 301 |
| GNIS feature ID | 588747 |
Bel Alton is a small community located in Charles County, Maryland. It's not a city or town with its own government. Instead, it's an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that are part of the larger county.
Bel Alton is known for its local businesses. You can find old-style motels and other shops along U.S. Route 301. These places serve both local people and travelers passing through.
Contents
Bel Alton's Place in History
Bel Alton holds a special place in American history. It was involved in a famous event from the past.
The Story of John Wilkes Booth
In April 1865, John Wilkes Booth was a well-known actor. He was also the person who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. After this event, Booth tried to escape. He traveled south through Maryland.
Bel Alton was one of the places where he stopped to hide. Today, you can find special signs along a side road. These signs mark the exact spots where Booth hid during his escape. It's like a real-life history trail!
Rich Hill: A Historic Home
Another important historical site nearby is Rich Hill. This historic property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. This means it's recognized as a place important to the history of the United States.
Community Life in Bel Alton
Bel Alton is home to several important community spots. These places help make the area special for its residents.
St. Ignatius Church and Cemetery
Just two miles west of Bel Alton is St. Ignatius Church and Cemetery. This church is very old. It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic parishes in the United States. It sits on a beautiful bluff. From there, you can see a wide inlet of the Potomac River.
Local Fairgrounds and Schools
The county fairgrounds are also located near Bel Alton. This is where many community events and the annual county fair take place. It's a fun spot for families and friends.
There's also a building that used to be the Bel Alton high school for African American students. Today, this building is used for different community activities. It serves as a gathering place for local residents.
Bel Alton's Past and Future
Bel Alton has changed over time and continues to grow.
How Bel Alton Got Its Name
Before 1891, Bel Alton was known by a different name. It was called Cox's Station. This name came from a local resident in the area. Later, the name was changed to Bel Alton.
Looking Ahead: New Developments
The area around Bel Alton is expected to grow. A new housing development is being built. It is called "Stagecoach Crossing." This new neighborhood is located two miles north of Bel Alton. It will bring more homes and people to the community.
