Wilson (ghost town), Calvert County, Maryland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wilson, Maryland
|
|
|---|---|
 Wilson (ghost town), Calvert County, Maryland
Location in Maryland
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Maryland |
| County | Calvert |
| Elevation | 112 ft (34 m) |
| GNIS feature ID | 1676134 |
Wilson is a fascinating place in Calvert County, Maryland. It is known as a ghost town. A ghost town is a place where most or all people have left. This leaves behind empty buildings and a quiet landscape.
Contents
What is a Ghost Town?
A ghost town is a town that has been mostly or completely abandoned. People move away for many reasons. Sometimes, a town's main industry disappears. Other times, natural disasters can make a town unlivable.
Why Towns Become Ghost Towns
Towns can become ghost towns for several reasons.
- Resource Depletion: Many towns grew around a specific resource. This could be a mine, a forest, or a fishing spot. When the resource runs out, people often leave to find work elsewhere.
- Economic Changes: Sometimes, new technologies or changes in trade routes can affect a town. If a town depended on a certain type of business, and that business fails, the town might shrink.
- Natural Disasters: Floods, droughts, or other natural events can force people to leave their homes. If the damage is too great, they might not return.
- New Transportation: When new roads or railways are built, they can bypass older towns. This makes it harder for businesses to thrive, and people might move to more accessible areas.
Wilson's Location and History
Wilson is located in the northern part of Calvert County, Maryland. It is found along what is now Maryland Route 260. This road helps people travel through the area today.
Where is Wilson Exactly?
Wilson is about 2.15 miles (3.46 kilometers) northeast of a town called Dunkirk. This gives you an idea of its general location within Calvert County. The area is mostly rural now, with fields and forests.
When Did Wilson Appear on Maps?
Wilson was shown on maps made by the USGS. These maps are important for showing geographic features. Wilson appeared on these maps as late as 1901. This means it was recognized as a settlement around the turn of the 20th century. Over time, the population likely decreased, leading to its current status as a ghost town.
Exploring Calvert County
Calvert County is a beautiful area in Maryland. It is known for its Chesapeake Bay shoreline. The county has a rich history, with many old towns and historical sites.
Nature and Wildlife
The county offers many outdoor activities. You can find parks, trails, and places to go fishing. It is home to various animals and plants. Exploring areas like Wilson can give you a glimpse into the past.
Learning from Ghost Towns
Ghost towns like Wilson teach us about how communities change. They show us how people adapt to new challenges. They also remind us that places can change a lot over time. Studying them helps us understand history and geography better.
