Smallwood State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Smallwood State Park |
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Smallwood's Retreat
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 Smallwood State Park
Location in Maryland
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| Location | Charles County, Maryland, United States |
| Nearest town | Marbury, Maryland |
| Area | 984 acres (398 ha) |
| Elevation | 3 ft (0.91 m) |
| Designation | Maryland state park |
| Established | 1958 |
| Administrator | Maryland Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Smallwood State Park |
Smallwood State Park is a fun place to visit in Maryland! It's a public park that offers both recreation and a look into history. You can find it on Mattawoman Creek near Marbury in Charles County.
This park protects a special old home called Smallwood's Retreat. This was the plantation home of William Smallwood, an important person in American history. He was an officer in the Continental Army during the American Revolution and later became a Governor of Maryland. The park covers about 984 acres (398 ha) and has lots of cool things to do, like a marina, boat ramps, picnic spots, campsites, cabins, trails, and a nature center.
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Discover Smallwood State Park
Smallwood State Park is a great spot for outdoor adventures and learning about the past. Whether you love fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for everyone.
What Can You Do at the Park?
The park offers many activities for visitors of all ages. You can spend a day or even camp overnight!
- Boating and Fishing: The park has a marina and boat ramps, making it easy to get out on the water. Mattawoman Creek is known for great fishing, especially for bass.
- Picnics and Camping: There are plenty of picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal outdoors. If you want to stay longer, the park has campsites and even cabins for a comfy overnight stay.
- Trails and Nature: Explore the park's trails, which are perfect for walking and enjoying nature. You can also visit the nature center to learn more about the local plants and animals.
Meet William Smallwood
The park is named after Major General William Smallwood, a very important figure from Maryland's past.
- Revolutionary War Hero: William Smallwood was a brave officer in the Continental Army. This was the army that fought for America's independence during the Revolutionary War.
- Governor of Maryland: After the war, he became the Governor of Maryland. This means he was the leader of the state for a period of time, helping to shape its future.
- Smallwood's Retreat: His home, Smallwood's Retreat, is preserved here. It gives us a glimpse into what life was like hundreds of years ago.
A Look Back: Park History
The story of Smallwood State Park is also about how people worked together to save an important historical site.
- Saving a Landmark: After William Smallwood's home was left empty for many years, it started to fall apart. In 1934, a group of local citizens decided to step in and protect it.
- Restoration Efforts: These dedicated people worked hard to restore the old house. The restoration work took place between 1954 and 1958.
- Park Opening: The park officially opened in 1958. It started as a thirty-acre state park, and over time, it grew to the size it is today, offering more space for recreation and history.
Gallery
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The ruins of Smallwood's Retreat before it was restored.
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The southeast side of the Smallwood house.
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The gravestone of General William Smallwood.
