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Protecting the Canal since 1954

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Association is an independent, all-volunteer citizens organization established in 1954 to help conserve the natural and historical environment of the C&O Canal and the Potomac River Basin. The association works with the National Park Service in its efforts to preserve and promote the 184-mile towpath.
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Birthday celebrations all around!Celebrate July 4! Today is both the birthday of the United States and the C&O Canal - so we have a lot to celebrate.

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted and a new nation was born.

On July 4, 1828, President John Quincy Adams broke ground for the C&O Canal and kicked off the great national project.

Today is an excellent opportunity to spend time with family and friends, reflect on history, or enjoy the great outdoors. Whatever you do, Celebrate and Recreate Responsibly.

#July4th #IndependenceDay

(Photo from the park archives of children with American flags at Four Locks, date unknown.)
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Birthday celebrations all around!

Happy Saturday! Take a look at this early 20th century postcard from the WCHS archives. We love its message: "We are having such a good time / Greetings from Big Pool, Maryland."

Did you know that Big Pool's big pool is a man-made lake created when the C&O Canal was built? It was used as a reservoir for the C&O Canal and was a convenient turning point for canal boats. Big Pool is quite a historic area, with Fort Frederick State Park not far away, and many outdoor activities available during summer!

#bigpoolmd #fortfrederickstatepark #washingtoncountymd
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