05/22/2026
The Trust supports through fiscal sponsorship the Canal Towns Partnership (CTP), an alliance of 11 gateway communities located along the C&O Canal: Poolesville, Point of Rocks, Brunswick, Sharpsburg, Williamsport, Hancock, and Cumberland in Maryland; and Harpers Ferry, Bolivar, Shepherdstown, and Paw Paw in West Virginia. These towns played a vital role in the C&O Canal’s history and continue facilitating tourism to the region and enjoyment of the C&O Canal. Jessica Foster, a small business owner on the canal who runs the immensely charming Bay Farms Boutique Inn in Williamsport, shares how the C&O Canal fosters her business and her perspective of how important it is to give back:
“The C&O Canal is a part of history that deserves preservation. Bay Farms Boutique Inn is a business that caters specifically to tourism on the canal, therefore it is vital to take part in the preservation of this national treasure. When I opened my business in 2018 I was shocked at how many people from all over the world bike the C&O Canal. That number only seems to have grown in recent years as biking has become even more popular. I certainly took for granted having something so special right in my backyard. I believe if we all do our part in keeping the canal clean and offering a small donation each year, tourism will only continue to grow. This can help promote small business in these canal towns who might otherwise not be able to survive. If we all play a small part we can come together to make a big impact!”
The Trust, with the CTP, has advocated for critical park–town projects through letters and oral support, advancing initiatives like Paw Paw connectivity, towpath rehabilitation, Byron Bridge staircase replacement, River Park in Cumberland, watershed restoration, and pedestrian safety improvements. Consider a donation today to support our efforts to preserve and protect this beloved historical park, which is treasured by so many, locally and globally!
🤝CanalTrust.org/Give