Part of the Building Baltimore Lecture Series: The B&O’s Role in the Making of Charm City 

At 12 noon, Conor Conneally will give a lecture exploring the B&O’s contribution to the development of Ellicott City. The B&O completed the nation’s first commercial railroad between Mt. Clare Station and Ellicott’s Mills in May of 1824. In August of 1830, the 13-mile line was used to successfully test Peter Cooper’s Tom Thumb, the first American-made steam locomotive. For generations, flour and granite were carried from Ellicott’s Mills to the Baltimore harbor, and passengers traveled with ease between the two locations thanks to the B&O Railroad. Ellicott’s Mills quickly grew thanks to the business provided by the B&O and, in 1867, the town was renamed to Ellicott City to reflect its new size and status. 

There will be a Q&A segment following the lecture.  

About the Lecturer

Conor Conneally is the Manager of the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, the oldest railroad station in the U.S. Originally from Ireland, Conor studied Irish politics at Queen’s University Belfast. He has been with the Ellicott City Station Museum since 2021 and has several years of experience working in museums and historical sites in both Ireland and the United States.

Admission:

Included with Museum Admission. B&O Members FREE.

More from the Building Baltimore Lecture Series

Upcoming Events at the B&O

Enter Your LEGO Creation!

Now through June 15

Sensory Sundays

June 8

Ice Cream Sundays

June 22, July 13, August 10

2025

New Monthly Tours

Climb aboard the B&O No. 3684 Diesel Locomotive!

June 18, 21 & 22

Go inside the WM No. 195 Switcher!

July 16, 19 & 20

WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:

2024
Sensory Inclusive Summer Camp

"I had no idea camps like this existed! It was truly inclusive, the counselors were accepting, kind and patient. It was incredibly affordable and very well organized. I can't say enough great things about it. I am very grateful!"

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