September 18 – Deer Park Methodist Cemetery Walking Tour, leader Steve Sinnott

Join HSCC on Saturday, September 18 at 10 am for a walking tour of one of Carroll County’s historic cemeteries: Deer Park Methodist Cemetery in Smallwood. The tour will be led by cemetery historian and HSCC volunteer Steve Sinnott.

Deer Park Chapel was incorporated in 1854 and soon afterward the area to the rear of the church was used for burials. Over 200 eight-grave burial lots were sold originally. Originally, each owner maintained their own plot—digging the graves and caring for the site. The cemetery has expanded several times over the years and is the final resting place for over 1,500 local residents. Among these are 161 veterans, including the first casualty of the Spanish-American War. Their stories are sometimes humorous, sometimes tragic, and they make a fascinating introduction to local history you probably never knew.

The tour is suitable for ages 10 and up. The tour requires standing for 1 hour and walking on uneven ground as well as paved roadways. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

The cemetery is located at 2200 Sykesville Road, behind the old Deer Park Methodist Church (now The Maryland Store). The tour begins at 10:00 a.m. Please arrive at the cemetery entrance 15 minutes before the tour for check-in.

Tour costs $5 for HSCC members and $10 for non-members. You may purchase the book Deer Park Methodist Cemetery book for $20 directly from the Maryland Store located in the Cemetery. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Space is limited. Reservations are requested by September 10. No refunds can be made after the reservation deadline. Purchase tickets at www. HSCCmd.org or call 410-848-6494, ext. 200, to reserve your spot.  Rain date is September 25 at 10 am.