The Fascinating Archaeological Discovery That Put This Small Maryland Town On The Map

Maryland is the home to a good number of early Colonial-era settlements, as should be expected, given our state’s history as one of the original 13 colonies in the United States! Two of the most famous are St. Michaels, which happens to be one of Maryland’s most walkable towns, and St. Mary’s, which makes a perfect day trip. But these aren’t the only two Colonial townships with historic maritime traditions. To the north, you’ll find Joppa, Maryland, one of the United Kingdom’s first successful ports established in the state, and all the historic sites around it that helped to put it on the map. Coincidentally, this also happens to make for a great adventure if you’re looking to learn more about Maryland while spending some time outside. Come along as we tell you more about it.

Joppa (and its close neighbor Joppatowne, a distinction that can be puzzlingly unclear at times) takes its name from the Biblical township of Jaffa, Israel. There were three attempted settlements by the English colonials, and Joppa was the only one to survive.

Joppa was at one point the county seat of Baltimore County, and was a thriving commercial seaport in the 18th century. With the development of Baltimore City, however, the town shifted and became more of a suburban area, but there are still plenty of immaculate waterfront views!

The Jericho Covered Bridge is a gorgeous landmark that crosses over Little Gunpowder Falls. It was built in 1865 and still stands on an active road today, but biking through it is an incredible experience. Careful, though, as there are rumors that it’s haunted by the spirits of fallen Civil War soldiers.

The Jerusalem Mills historic site is located just north of the Jericho Covered Bridge. Established in 1772 by Pennsylvania Quakers, the town became an important gun manufactory during the American Revolution in 1776.

Mariner Point Park juts out into the Gunpowder River and is a long-standing reminder of the origins of Joppa and Joppatowne. In the 18th century, before Baltimore had fully developed into the county seat, Joppa was a thriving and important seaport for international trade and travel.

Nowadays the park is full of wildlife and gentle walking paths, shade trees and jungle gyms. It makes for a relaxing morning jaunt and is home to some of the friendliest squirrels you’ll find in Maryland, as long as you bring a bag of peanuts along!

If you’re planning on visiting Joppa, be sure to check out this incredible rental option just a short walk from Mariner Point Park!

There are so many wonderful historic sites in Maryland that you will be amazed! What are some of your favorite historic towns in Maryland? Why? We'd love to read about your experiences in the comments section below!

If you’d like to explore some really great hikes in and around the area, you can find information and photos about trails to embark upon by going to the AllTrails website.

Thinking about taking a Maryland vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.

If you’re still in the mood for more Maryland adventures, take a look at this video: