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Cambridge, MD

Frequently asked questions

Cambridge, MD 

Cambridge is a city in Dorchester County, Maryland, United States. The population was 13,096 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Dorchester County and the county's largest municipality. Cambridge is the fourth most populous city in Maryland's Eastern Shore region, after Salisbury, Elkton, and Easton. 

Settled by English colonists in 1684, Cambridge stands as one of the oldest colonial cities in Maryland. During the time of English colonization, the Algonquian-speaking Choptank Indians resided along the river bearing their name. Throughout the colonial years, English colonists developed farming on the Eastern Shore, with the largest plantations initially focusing on tobacco, before shifting to mixed farming. Enslaved people were purchased by the planters for labor in tobacco and mixed farming. Cambridge served as a regional trading center, with its town pier being a major hub for slave trading, a history extensively documented by historical markers scattered throughout the town center.

Cambridge was officially incorporated in 1793, taking over part of the former Choptank Indian Reservation. The town received its name from a city and county in England.[9] Cambridge also became a stop on the Underground Railroad, which provided a network of safe houses for enslaved people escaping to the North.

In the late 19th century, Cambridge developed food processing industries, specializing in the canning of oysters, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. The town's industrial growth was led by the Phillips Packing Company, which eventually became the region's largest employer. Winning contracts from the Department of Defense during the First and Second World Wars greatly aided the company's growth. At its height, the company employed as many as 10,000 workers. However, shifting tastes brought a decline in business, causing Phillips to reduce its operations. By the early 1960s, the company had ceased operations entirely, leading to widespread unemployment and exacerbating the city's growing social issues.

Cambridge is located at 38°33′59″N 76°4′37″W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.64 square miles (32.74 km²), of which, 10.34 square miles (26.78 km²) is land and 2.30 square miles (5.96 km²) is water. Cambridge is on the southern bank of the Choptank River.

Cambridge places a strong emphasis on health and wellness for its residents. The University of Maryland Medical Center at Cambridge offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Heirloom Athletics provides a wide range of fitness classes and a well-equipped gym to help you stay in shape. The YMCA of the Chesapeake provides a comprehensive range of fitness classes, swimming, and recreational sports to promote physical well-being. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walking and running at Great Marsh Park, which offers scenic views and trails. Anahata Yoga offers yoga classes for all levels, fostering both physical and mental wellness. Eastern Shore Dance Academy provides various dance classes that combine fun and fitness. The Cambridge Country Club offers golf and tennis, promoting both physical activity and social interaction.

Top sites in Cambridge, MD: Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center, Choptank River Lighthouse, Spocott Windmill Foundation, Inc.

Area code: 410. ZIP Code: 21613. Elevation: 20 ft (6 m). Area: 12.64 square miles (32.74 km²). Population: 13,096 (2020).

FAQs

Why is Cambridge, MD so famous?

Cambridge served as a regional trading center, with its town pier being a major hub for slave trading, a history extensively documented by historical markers scattered throughout the town center. Cambridge was officially incorporated in 1793, taking over part of the former Choptank Indian Reservation. The town received its name from a city and county in England.

Is Cambridge, MD a city or town? 

Cambridge is a city in Dorchester County, Maryland, United States. The population was 13,096 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Dorchester County and the county's largest municipality. Cambridge is the fourth most populous city in Maryland's Eastern Shore region, after Salisbury, Elkton, and Easton.

Is Cambridge, MD worth visiting?

Founded in 1684 on the beautiful banks of the Choptank River, Cambridge is one of the oldest colonial cities in the nation. Friendly, boatable, and walkable, this iconic Chesapeake community marries maritime heritage and Eastern Shore traditions with all of the luxury of a world-class travel destination. Experience the landscapes that formed and forged Harriet Tubman, an American hero whose life was even greater than her legend.

Sources

City of Cambridge

Wikipedia

Visit Maryland

Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center

Choptank River Lighthouse

Spocott Windmill Foundation, Inc.

University of Maryland Medical Center at Cambridge

Heirloom Athletics

YMCA of the Chesapeake

Great Marsh Park

Anahata Yoga

Eastern Shore Dance Academy

Cambridge Country Club

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