10 Rare Vintage Photos Of The C & O Canal In Maryland

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)

2. Canal boats in Cumberland being loaded with coal. Photo taken between 1900 to 1920.

3. A steamboat along the canal near Williamsport. Circa 1875-1880.

4. Mules feeding along the C & O Canal in the mid-1800s.

5. People enjoying a stroll along the canal between 1909 and 1923.

6. Paw Paw Tunnel along the canal's western portion, including a boat and onlookers. (Date unknown)

7. Swimmers cooling off on a summer day, between 1909 and 1919.

8. A man and woman stepping out of a rowboat on the canal. Circa 1909 and 1932.

9. Children on a C & O Canal boat in Cumberland. Photo captured in 1910.

10. DC's portion of the canal, complete with a canal boat and mules. Circa 1910 - 1920.

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