A Little-Known Slice Of Maryland History Can Be Found At This Roadside Lookout

There are countless hidden gems in Maryland. So many, in fact, that you could easily devote an entire lifetime to uncovering these little-known destinations. Today's feature spot is no exception. The LaVale Toll Gate offers a little-known slice of Maryland history, and it's waiting for you just off the side of the road. Learn more about this under-the-radar landmark that once represented the Gateway to the West. It's one of the most remarkable hidden historical sites in Maryland.

Let's take a step back in time to the year 1811. The government funded its first road in the U.S., appropriately named the National Road, which began in and passed through the town of Cumberland, Maryland. The road eventually expanded through portions of Pennsylvania and West Virginia and across Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, where it terminated at the city of Vindalia. Consequently, this town soon became the "Gateway to the West," and an official government toll house was constructed at mile marker 1 in Columbia, MD.

It was there that the road passed through the LaVale Narrows, which is a 1,000-foot gap between Will's and Haystack Mountains. It's also among the most scenic places in all of Maryland. The LaVale Toll Gate House was completed in 1835, sometime after the state of Maryland acquired ownership of this portion of the National Road. As a two-story structure with seven sides, the LaVale Toll Gate House is one of the most unique landmarks in Maryland. Not only was it the first established toll house, but it's also the last one that remains on the National Road.

Today, visitors are welcome to view the site of this one-of-a-kind toll house, where they can take a look at the historic toll costs throughout the years. Visitors should note that the house is not always open to the public for tours, but it's possible to peer in through the windows. There's also a picnic table on-site, as well as some casual restaurants nearby. Check the Allegheny County website for dates the LaVale Toll Gate House is open for tours.

Have you ever heard of the LaVale Toll Gate House in Cumberland? What are your thoughts on this little-known Maryland gem? What other hidden historical sites in Maryland do you want to share with us? Please do so by sending us a message through our nomination page.

Visit the Allegheny County website for more on the LaVale toll Gate House and other nearby attractions and historical sites. You should also follow the Allegheny County, the Mountain Side of Maryland Facebook page.

If you need a place to stay while exploring the unique LaVale Toll Gate House site, be sure to check out this list of vacation rentals near Cumberland, Maryland. You can also plan your own road trip to some of Maryland's most remarkable historic sites with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.