Part of the Building Baltimore Lecture Series: The B&O’s Role in the Making of Charm City
At 12 noon, Conor Conneally will give a lecture exploring the B&O’s contribution to the development of Ellicott City. The B&O completed the nation’s first commercial railroad between Mt. Clare Station and Ellicott’s Mills in May of 1824. In August of 1830, the 13-mile line was used to successfully test Peter Cooper’s Tom Thumb, the first American-made steam locomotive. For generations, flour and granite were carried from Ellicott’s Mills to the Baltimore harbor, and passengers traveled with ease between the two locations thanks to the B&O Railroad. Ellicott’s Mills quickly grew thanks to the business provided by the B&O and, in 1867, the town was renamed to Ellicott City to reflect its new size and status.
There will be a Q&A segment following the lecture.
About the Lecturer
Conor Conneally is the Manager of the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, the oldest railroad station in the U.S. Originally from Ireland, Conor studied Irish politics at Queen’s University Belfast. He has been with the Ellicott City Station Museum since 2021 and has several years of experience working in museums and historical sites in both Ireland and the United States.
Admission:
Included with Museum Admission. B&O Members FREE.
More from the Building Baltimore Lecture Series
Upcoming Events at the B&O
B&O Unlocked: B&O No. X-4055 Camp Car
Maryland History Storytime
“Commerce on the Railroad” Tour
WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:
