Marston, Maryland facts for kids

Farm in Marston

Marston is a small village located in Carroll County, Maryland. It sits at a crossroads where Marston Road and Marston Road South meet. You can find Marston south of New Windsor, which is the closest bigger town. Taylorsville is also not too far away. In the past, Marston was known by different names like Mount Vernon and even Hogstown!

Exploring Marston's History

Marston is home to several interesting historical spots. You can find the site where Robert Strawbridge, an early Methodist preacher, held meetings. While the main Strawbridge Shrine is closer to New Windsor, this spot marks an important part of local history.

Historic Buildings and Churches

The area has old churches like the Sam's Creek Church of the Brethren. This church property even has a historic one-room schoolhouse that has been given a new purpose. Another old church is Bethel Church, which is also Methodist. Many farmhouses from the 1800s are still standing and look great. These old buildings and barns are still lived in and used today.

Local Farms and Businesses

Marston is a farming community. You can often find local produce stands, like the one at Wilt-Lee Farms. This farm raises beef and grows crops, and their stand is right in the middle of Marston. Some farms also offer fun activities like pony rides!

Local Legends and Stories

Marston has some interesting local folklore, which are old stories passed down through generations.

The Witch of Marston

One story tells of a local witch who is said to haunt the area at night. People describe her in a scary form: six feet tall, with bright white hair, and two big, glowing eyes that look like saucers.

Sam's Creek and the Trader

Another story is about a Native American trader named Sam. This story is partly true! Sam's Creek, a local creek, is named after him. People say he loved spending time by the creek, enjoying its peacefulness and what it offered. The legend says he is buried near the creek "underneath two trees that have become one," but no one knows the exact spot.

Meet the Founding Families

Many families have lived in Marston for a long time. Some of the first important families in the area included the Bond, Crook, Devilbiss, Harp, Hooper, Haines, Ingles (also spelled Engels), and Naill families. The Ingles family actually divided up some of their land to create the first building lots for what became Marston. Today, families like the Jenkins and Wilt families are descendants of these original settlers. They are connected through many marriages over the years. For example, John Wilt's daughter is now married to a Hoff and owns Wilt-Lee Farms.