Croom, MD
County: Prince George's
History
Croom, Maryland is a small, unincorporated community located in Prince George's County. Its history dates back to the early 18th century when the land in the area was granted to Lord Baltimore, the founder of the colony of Maryland.
The area of Croom was primarily agricultural, with farms and tobacco plantations being the main source of income for the early settlers. The community saw slow growth throughout the 18th and 19th centuries as more families settled in the area, building their homes and establishing a strong agricultural presence.
During the Civil War, Croom was not notably affected by major battles or conflicts. However, it did experience some division within the community, with some residents supporting the Confederate cause while others remained loyal to the Union. There are several historic sites in the area that were used as hideouts and meeting places for Confederate sympathizers.
In the early 20th century, Croom began to see some changes as the agriculture industry declined and the population decreased. Many farms were abandoned or repurposed for other uses, and the community became more residential in nature. However, Croom has managed to maintain its rural character even in the face of urban development in nearby areas.
Today, Croom is known for its open spaces, farmland, and horse farms. It attracts visitors who are interested in outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching. The area is also home to the Patuxent River State Park, which offers recreational opportunities and preserves the natural beauty of the region.
While Croom may be considered a small and relatively unknown community, its history is tied to the broader story of Maryland and its agricultural heritage. The area's slow but steady growth, its connections to the Civil War, and its transition from a rural farming community to a haven for outdoor enthusiasts all contribute to the unique history and charm of Croom, Maryland.
Attractions
Patuxent River State Park
This park offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as fishing and camping opportunities.
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary
A 1,670-acre sanctuary featuring forests, wetlands, and fields, providing habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Cedarville State Forest
A 3,510-acre forest offering camping, hiking, and picnicking activities, and trails for horseback riding and mountain biking.
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
A nature reserve with a visitor center, hiking trails, and boardwalks, showcasing the diverse wetland habitats and wildlife of the Patuxent River.
Mount Calvert Historical and Archaeological Park
An historic site that preserves the history of early Maryland settlements, featuring exhibits, walking trails, and an 18th-century house.
Southern Maryland Blue Crabs
A professional baseball team that plays at the Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, which is close to Croom.
Wineries and Breweries
The surrounding region of Croom is home to several wineries and breweries, offering tours, tastings, and events.
It is recommended to check for current availability and any COVID-19 restrictions before visiting these attractions.
Climate
Croom, MD has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average highs in the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27 to 33 degrees Celsius) and occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the upper 90s (35-37 degrees Celsius). Winters are generally mild, with average highs in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4 to 15 degrees Celsius) and lows dipping into the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 1 degree Celsius).
Spring and fall are transitional seasons with pleasant temperatures, ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10 to 26 degrees Celsius). These seasons may experience some precipitation, with spring being slightly wetter than fall. Croom receives about 42 inches (107 cm) of rainfall annually, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
The area experiences occasional snowfall during winter, usually averaging around 16 inches (41 cm) annually. However, snow tends to melt quickly due to the relatively mild temperatures.
Thunderstorms and rain showers are common during summer months, with occasional severe storms bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning. The occasional tropical storm or hurricane impact may occur, especially during late summer and early fall.
Overall, Croom experiences a moderate climate with some seasonal variations and a relatively high humidity due to its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and neighboring water bodies.
Neighborhoods
Croom, MD is a small unincorporated community located in Prince George's County, Maryland. While Croom itself does not have officially designated neighborhoods, there are several nearby areas that are often considered part of the larger Croom community. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods:
Croom Station
This neighborhood is located south of Croom and is characterized by its picturesque rural environment. It is home to Croom Airport and the Cedarville State Forest, offering plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Friendly
Located to the northwest of Croom, the Friendly neighborhood is a mix of residential areas and farmland. It has a tranquil and scenic atmosphere, with close proximity to beautiful nature parks like Patuxent River Park and Piscataway Park.
Brandywine
Situated northeast of Croom, Brandywine is a larger and more developed neighborhood. It offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments. Brandywine also has convenient amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and schools.
Upper Marlboro
Although not directly adjacent to Croom, Upper Marlboro is a nearby town about 10 miles to the northwest. It is the county seat of Prince George's County and offers a mix of historic charm and modern development. Upper Marlboro has various neighborhoods and is known for its courthouse, farmers market, and events like the county fair.
Rosaryville
Located southwest of Croom, Rosaryville is another neighboring community. It features larger properties, including horse farms and equestrian facilities. The Rosaryville State Park is a prominent attraction in this area, providing outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Overall, the neighborhoods surrounding Croom, MD offer a variety of settings, from quiet country living to more developed suburban environments. Each area comes with its unique features and attractions, providing residents with various options to suit their lifestyles.