Oakland -About

Why Oakland | Our History | Photo Archive

Why Oakland?

Photo Archive

•	Railroad Station Our historic B&O railroad station needs your help.
•	Mayor Our mayor Asa M. McCain
•	Town Council Our town council and mayor
•	Community Spirit A caring mother volunteers her time for our local football team
•	Brick sidewalks Our sidewalks are getting that old/new red brick look
•	Mooo over Our neighbors aren't all this "nosey"
•	Public Markets Friendly service, always with a smile
•	Good pickin's Our town is surrounded by the bounties of nature
•	Art work We have several artists that love our rural life
•	Fly fishing We have great rivers and streams for fishing
•	Waterfall Swallow Falls is the largest waterfall in the State of Maryland
Our Picture Galleries
•	JAVA picture gallery
•	Thumbnail picture gallery

Oakland's excellent public school system, its nurturing economic climate and its reputation for achievement are only a few reasons that you'll want to continue finding out more about us. Add to that our beautiful surroundings, safe environment and modern medical facilities, and we think you'll find plenty of reasons to stop by for a visit or to stay for a lifetime.

Our History

Garrett Country has a rich history influenced by the character of its beauty and abundant natural resources. Named after John W. Garrett, President of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the county flourished as a major exporter of timber and coal after the arrival of the railroads in the 1850's. The railroads also contributed to the development of a prosperous resort industry in which Deer Park, Oakland, Mountain Lake Park and Loch Lynn Heights were magnificent resort towns of ornate hotels and a thriving cultural atmosphere. Called "The American Switzerland", the area was popular until the advent of automobile travel. With fewer people using trains, the area fell upon hard times. In the 1950's, State parks were developed around the area and Deep Creek Lake was created. Today, Garrett County is known as an all-season playground. Not only are there sports activities, but also cultural events and beautiful old homes being restored.

Oakland, the county seat, was first patented with the name "The Wilderness Shall Smile." It was later called Yough Glades settlement and officially named Oakland with the designation of building lots in 1849. At the center of Oakland is the Queen Anne style railroad station designed by E.F. Baldwin and built in 1885 by the B & O Railroad. Large Victorian homes graced the tree-lined streets and were hosts to many famous and distinguished visitors who traveled by rail to this cool, green mountain oasis.