2020-12-17 03:50:26
It was the greatest manhunt in American history and captivated a nation. Follow that history and find amazing people, unbelievable outdoor experiences, and world-class seafood destinations along the way. @stefanierobey The John Wilkes Booth: Chasing Lincoln’s Assassin Byway begins at Ford’s Theater in Washington, D.C., and quickly escapes into the Maryland countryside. Along the way, you’ll come face to face with history at the Surratt House Museum, home of Mary Surratt, whose role in the dastardly conspiracy ended in her becoming the first woman hanged by the federal government. Visit the Dr. Samuel A. Mudd house, home of the man who, in treating the villain Booth, would forever give Mudd a bad name. And explore unique Port Tobacco, a historic town with ties to both the plot and the manhunt. But you’ll also find so much more than history. Much of the Southern Maryland landscape is little changed since the time of Lincoln, and that means remarkable outdoor opportunities, including truly world-class bass fishing on the Potomac, and even bow-fishing for exotic snakehead fish and massive flathead catfish. Local guides are ready to make your anglers adventure a reality. And you’ll find fishing, hunting, and a boat launch at spots like Chapel Point State Park. Hiking and biking are a big part of the picture too, with serious trail riding and accessible spots like the Indian Head Rail Trail. Boaters won’t be disappointed along the Potomac and its tributaries, especially kayakers who can explore the ships graveyard at nearby Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary, home to more than 100 WWI-era steamship wrecks to explore. Taste the local flavors. Southern Maryland is known for some of the best seafood on the planet. Live like the locals with a stop at Port Tobacco Marina and Restaurant and enjoy dinner and an Orange Crush along the river. On Popes Creek, close to Booth’s flight, you’ll find Captain Billy’s Crabhouse, a quintessential Maryland crab house serving authentic and delicious Maryland steamed crabs by the bushel, and Gilligan’s Pier doing Maryland-style seafood with a side of Tiki and a sandy beach to boot. One thing is for sure as you tour the byway through Southern Maryland—you may come for the history, but you’ll remember the fun. See more things to do along the John Wilkes Booth: Chasing Lincoln’s Assassin Byway at: visitmaryland.org/scenic-byways/john-wilkes-booth-chasing-lincolns-assassin
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