History of the Patapsco Valley and Patapsco Valley State Park

The State-wide forest and park movement began in 1906 when Governor Edwin Warfield signed into law an act creating the Maryland State Board of Forestry.  One year later, Catonsville resident John Glenn donated 43 acres of his Hilton Estate to the Forestry Board, planting the seeds for Patapsco Valley State Park.  In 1912, the Maryland General Assembly authorized the Forestry Board to expand the Patapsco Reserve for the purpose of developing the valley as a recreational "Pleasure Ground" -- making Patapsco Maryland's first state park.

Click below to preview the historical displays and information that you will explore at the Avalon History Center