I decided to take advantage of the spectacular Fall weather the other day by shopping and wandering through downtown Oakland. While there, I decided to pop into the Garrett County Museum since I had never been there before. What a treat! The outside of the back of the building is reconstructed to look like the old Deer Park Hotel, which was a widely popular hotel constructed in the late 1890’s. One can truly get a sense of how beautiful this hotel was back in its day.
Walking through, you obviously get a real understanding of the history of our area but what I found most fascinating was that the majority of pictures and artifacts were actually donated by the citizens of Garrett County. In one room, you can look at a model of the old B & O Railroad along with some of the original uniforms, pictures, and plaques that were in placed in the station. Interesting fact; Garrett County was actually named in honor of Mr. John W. Garrett, President of the B & O Railroad. 
Other items of interest is the room that is reconstructed to look like an old Deep Creek Lake cottage and a room devoted to some of the military background of our area. As an resident of Mountain Lake Park, I was awed by the pictures of the old lake, which at the time was a popular place for those to vacation. Unfortunately it could not be salvaged and was torn down but many years ago, Mtn. Lake housed a 5000 seating Bashford Amphitheater, which William Howard Taft actually spoke at in August 1911. To see the pictures, one cannot help but be amazed at the enormity of the building and to imagine what huge crowds it must have drawn to it.
I highly recommend that you take a day and visit the museum. Make a full day of it and also visit the Transportation Museum located just down the road. Don’t forget that Farmer’s Market is still going strong throughout the month of October so visit on Wednesday and Saturday and choose from a large variety of fresh fruit, veggies, and baked goods. Stop into Dottie’s Fountain and Grill for a delicious homemade milkshake. An eclectic atmosphere combined with awesome diner food! You can’t go wrong!.JPG)
The Autumn Glory Festival is quickly approaching so make sure you call Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations today (1-866-351-1119) or look us up online (www.deepcreekvacations.com) for some unbeatable last minute deals. For the large multi-family getaway call and get details on one of our latest homes, Unforgettable, a true Deep Creek premiere home. This phenomenal 8 bedroom home is located in the prestigious community of Waterfront Greens and boasts a private indoor heated pool, 2 hot tubs, and lots of new updated décor including newer flat screen TVs. Trust me, your family will thank you. In the meantime, as we continue to bask in the beauty of Autumn here in the mountains, we can’t wait to see you at the lake!
.JPG)