Towson, Maryland

Towson is an unincorporated community and a census-designated place located in Baltimore County, Maryland. As of the 2000 census, the CDP had a total population of 51,793. It is the county seat of Baltimore County{{GR|6}}. It's also one of the largest unincorporated county seats in the United States.

History

The community of Towson began about 1750 when two brothers, William and Thomas Towson, emigrated from Pennsylvania and started farming on Satyr's Hill, to the northeast of York and Joppa Roads. In 1768 Thomas' son, Ezekiel built a large tavern at the crossroads, just north of where the Towson Theater is now. A small village called "Towsontown" began to grow around it, serving area farmers who traveled on York, Dulaney Valley, and Joppa Roads.

Related Topics:
1750 - William - Thomas Towson - Pennsylvania - Satyr's Hill - 1768

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In 1790, the Ridgely family completed the magnificent Hampton Mansion, then the largest home in America. On the estate, other buildings were erected by the Chews, Shealeys, Schmucks, Phipps, Paynes, Lees, Bowens, Wares, and Bosleys. In 1839, Epsom Chapel became the first house of worship for the community. (It was demolished in 1950, making way for what is Towson Town Center.)

Related Topics:
1790 - Ridgely - Hampton Mansion - 1839 - 1950 - Towson Town Center

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A new era began in 1854 when the Court House construction started and Towson officially became the Baltimore County Seat. Numerous buildings were built in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, giving the community a distinctive 19th Century atmosphere that is still visible.

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As the area is adjacent to Baltimore City, some amenities in the City are commonly thought to be part of the Towson area, such as the nearby Senator Theater.

Related Topics:
Baltimore City - Senator Theater

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