The C & O Canal is one of Maryland’s most impressive attractions, and it’s also among the most historic. While walking, jogging, or cycling along the towpath, you’re literally taking a step into the past. Take a look at the following 10 images to see just how far the canal has come. You may not even recognize it.

1. A lockkeeper at lock 56, with his wife and child. He later went onto raise 13 children. (Photo date unknown)
Wikimedia Commons / Western Maryland Historical Society
2. Canal boats in Cumberland being loaded with coal. Photo taken between 1900 to 1920.
Wikimedia Commons / Thomas Hahn Collection of C&O Canal Photos
3. A steamboat along the canal near Williamsport. Circa 1875-1880.
Wikimedia Commons / Western Maryland Railway Historical Society
4. Mules feeding along the C & O Canal in the mid-1800s.
Wikimedia Commons / Western Maryland Historical Society
5. People enjoying a stroll along the canal between 1909 and 1923.
Wikimedia Commons / Library of Congress

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6. Paw Paw Tunnel along the canal's western portion, including a boat and onlookers. (Date unknown)
Wikimedia Commons / National Park Service
7. Swimmers cooling off on a summer day, between 1909 and 1919.
Wikimedia Commons / Library of Congress
8. A man and woman stepping out of a rowboat on the canal. Circa 1909 and 1932.
Wikimedia Commons / Library of Congress
9. Children on a C & O Canal boat in Cumberland. Photo captured in 1910.
Wikimedia Commons / E B Thomson
10. DC's portion of the canal, complete with a canal boat and mules. Circa 1910 - 1920.
Wikimedia Commons / Library of Congress

What can you expect from a day trip to the canal today? Click here to find out.

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