Newtowne

Newtowne
Thomas Steiner · CC BY-SA 2.5 · source
Name	Newtowne
Coordinates	38.9873, -76.5358

Newtowne is a historic neighborhood located in Cambridge, Maryland, near the Choptank River and Dorchester County. The area is known for its rich history, dating back to the 17th century, and is situated near the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park. Newtowne is also close to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and the Assateague Island National Seashore. The neighborhood is part of the Cambridge Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography

Newtowne is situated on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, near the mouth of the Choptank River. The area is characterized by its low-lying coastal plains, with elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 20 feet above sea level. The neighborhood is bounded by the Cambridge Creek to the north and the Harriet Tubman Byway to the south. Nearby landmarks include the Salem Avenue Historic District, the Long Wharf Park, and the Richardson Maritime Museum. The geography of the area is also influenced by the nearby Atlantic Coastal Plain and the Delmarva Peninsula.

History

The history of Newtowne dates back to the 17th century, when it was a small settlement established by English colonists. The area was part of the Province of Maryland and was named after the nearby Newtown Creek. During the American Revolutionary War, the area was a key location for privateers and smugglers. The neighborhood is also significant for its role in the Underground Railroad, with notable figures such as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass having ties to the area. Other notable historical events and figures associated with the area include the Treaty of Paris, the War of 1812, and Francis Scott Key.

Demographics

The demographics of Newtowne are reflective of the broader Cambridge, Maryland community. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, the area has a diverse population with a mix of African Americans, European Americans, and Latin Americans. The neighborhood is also home to a significant number of Native Americans, including members of the Nanticoke people and the Piscataway people. Nearby institutions, such as Cambridge-South Dorchester High School and Chesapeake College, serve the community and provide educational opportunities. Other notable organizations in the area include the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the United Methodist Church.

Economy

The economy of Newtowne is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The area is known for its seafood, particularly crabbing and oystering, with many local businesses, such as The Crab Claw and The Oyster House, serving the community. The neighborhood is also home to a number of small businesses, including antique shops and art galleries, which cater to tourists visiting the area. Nearby events, such as the Cambridge Seafood Festival and the Dorchester County Fair, also contribute to the local economy. Other notable economic drivers in the area include the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the Dorchester General Hospital.

Culture

The culture of Newtowne is rich and diverse, reflecting the area's history and heritage. The neighborhood is home to a number of historic homes and museums, including the Harriet Tubman Museum and the Cambridge Historic Society Museum. The area is also known for its arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. Nearby events, such as the Cambridge Arts Festival and the Dorchester County Heritage Day, celebrate the area's culture and history. Other notable cultural institutions in the area include the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian Institution.

Transportation

Newtowne is accessible by a number of transportation routes, including Maryland Route 16 and U.S. Route 50. The area is also served by the Cambridge-Dorchester Airport and the Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport. Nearby transportation hubs, such as the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the Delmarva Central Railroad, also provide connections to the area. The neighborhood is also close to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and the Delaware Memorial Bridge, making it easily accessible by car. Other notable transportation options in the area include the Greyhound Lines and the Maryland Transit Administration. Category:Neighborhoods in Maryland