2026 Proposed Boundary Expansion

The Catoctin Furnace Historical Society is conducting research and community outreach for a proposed boundary expansion of the 1972 district. The 1972 boundary drew a rectangle along Route 806 from the Ironmaster’s Mansion to the north to Auburn on the south encompassing 119.6 acres. This proposed boundary expansion will right a 54-year-old mistake that excluded the greater furnacelands upon which the furnace operation depended. This proposed boundary expansion will recognize and honor the lands and peoples whose homes, farms, woods, and labors powered the furnace from the time of the American Revolution until the 20th century. The proposed district is significant as an early industrial complex that supported and maintained the iron furnace and related industries. The district building stock embodies distinctive characteristics of types, periods, and construction methods, spanning 250 years. In addition, the survey district reflects rural development, agricultural progress, WPA and CCC redevelopment, and immigrant history and culture in northern Frederick County.

On Wednesday, February 11, 2026 a public meeting was held at the Thurmont Regional Library during which representatives of the Maryland Historical Trust, the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, and Frederick County Planning and Design office provided information about the benefits of National Register inclusion. Their presentations are provided here as is an article about the proposed expansion published in the Frederick News-Post on January 29, 2026 and detailed maps of the proposed boundary increase area. 

We welcome comments and feedback from the community about this proposed expansion. Please contact us or call 240-288-7396.