Old Ellicott City

Twice Drowned

State: Maryland County: Howard County Founded: 1772 Abandoned: Semi-ghost (flood-damaged) Peak Population: Mill town

Old Ellicott City is a historic mill town that was devastated by flash floods in 2016 and 2018 (both called '1000-year floods'). Many businesses were destroyed and some buildings demolished. The town is slowly recovering but retains an eerie, half-abandoned character.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Year-round

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 2 hours

Quick Facts

  • Two '1000-year floods' in 2 years
  • Oldest railroad terminus in US
  • Historic Main Street recovering

Location

Address: Main Street, Ellicott City, MD

Coordinates: 39.2667, -76.8