MARYLAND - Maryland is home to towns with beautiful and historic names, from Annapolis and Baltimore to St. Michaels and Chestertown. But when it comes to a fun piece of local trivia, one town stands out for having the longest single-word, incorporated town name in the Old Line State: Funkstown.
The History of Funkstown
Located in Washington County near Hagerstown, the story of Funkstown is a classic piece of American history.
- Founding and Naming: The town was founded in 1754 by a German settler named Jacob Funck. He purchased the land and initially laid out the settlement, naming it "Jerusalem." However, the town soon became popularly known by its founder's name, and it was officially incorporated as "Funkstown" in 1840.
- Civil War Significance: Due to its location near the Mason-Dixon line and major battlefields, Funkstown played a role in the Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Funkstown in July 1863, a skirmish that was part of the Confederate Army's retreat from the Battle of Gettysburg.
Funkstown Today
Today, Funkstown is a charming and historic small town. Visitors can explore its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and enjoy its quaint community feel. It serves as a quiet reminder of the region's deep history, situated just a short drive from the Antietam National Battlefield.
While not exceptionally long compared to some place names in the world, Funkstown holds the unique distinction of being the longest single-word town name in Maryland. More than just a trivia answer, the name honors its founder, Jacob Funck. It represents a community with a rich history that predates the founding of the United States itself.
Sources:
- Maryland Historical Trust
- The Town of Funkstown Official Website
- Washington County Historical Society
- National Park Service (for information on the Battle of Funkstown and Antietam)
- Maryland Manual Online (Maryland State Archives)
