Living in Ridgely, MD
Ridgely, Maryland, is a town in Caroline County, where history and modern-day commerce exist seamlessly. Located on the Upper Eastern Shore, Ridgely, MD, was founded in 1867. The town gets its name from the Rev. Greenbury W. Ridgely, from whom the Maryland and Baltimore Land Association purchased the land where the town of Ridgely now sits.
Events and Activities in Ridgely
People living in Ridgely, Maryland, have ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Tuckahoe State Park offers space for fishing, boating, camping, hunting, hiking, biking, and horse riding. A large part of the park is occupied by Adkins Arboretum, a botanical garden that has over 600 types of plants. Horticulture, natural history, and ecology classes for the public are conducted at the arboretum.
Ridgely organizes a Strawberry Festival every May to remember the time in the late 19th century when the town called itself the "Strawberry Capital of the World." Even now, the town remains a major producer of strawberries, huckleberries, and many other types of produce. The Ridgely neighborhood also hosts a Christmas parade and the Ridgely Pharmacy Car & Motorcycle Show every year.
People who wish to make meaningful contributions to their community can find volunteering opportunities at the St. Gertrude Monastery run by Benedictine Sisters, who came to Ridgely, Maryland, in 1887. The sisters collect food, clothing, and other necessities and distribute them to people in the area who need these items.
Historic Sites in Ridgely, Maryland
Used as the town hall, Ridgely House shows off Victorian-era architecture. People seeking homes for sale in Ridgely will find many residences built in Victorian style.
Other structures of interest in the Ridgely real estate scene are Oak Lawn, Marble Head, and the Telephone Exchange building. Oak Lawn, built in the 18th century, was owned by the Rev. Ridgely. Marble Head, known for its intact architectural form and interior, was erected in the 19th century. The 1937 Telephone Exchange was moved elsewhere in the 1950s, but has now returned to Ridgely and functions as a historical museum of sorts.
Transportation and Travel in Ridgely
Ridgely is geographically close to the Delaware state line. Annapolis is approximately 41 miles, and Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are both approximately 70 miles from the town.
The Maryland Upper Shore Transportation runs buses to Ridgely and the nearest airport is BWI, about 45 miles away. Ridgely's location makes it possible to remain well-connected to larger cities and yet enjoy the benefits of small-town life.