Delmar, MD
County: Wicomico
History
Delmar, MD is a small town located in Wicomico County. The town was originally settled in the early 19th century, around 1805. It was originally known as "Caine's Crossroads" after the local landowner, Nathaniel Caine. The area was primarily agricultural, with many farms and plantations.
In 1859, the Delaware Railroad was completed, running through the area and connecting Delmar to other towns and cities. This railroad connection led to the growth and development of Delmar as a transportation hub. The name "Delmar" was created as a combination of "Del" from Delaware and "Mar" from Maryland, to reflect the town's position on the state border.
With the railroad's arrival, Delmar quickly became a thriving trade and commerce center. The town's location, conveniently situated between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, made it an ideal gateway for goods and services. Delmar saw an increase in population and the establishment of various businesses such as hotels, banks, and stores.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Delmar continued to grow and prosper. The town had several factories, including a fruit cannery, a lumber mill, and a shirt factory. The introduction of electricity and improved infrastructure further contributed to its development.
In 1905, the State of Delaware granted a separate corporate charter to the Delaware portion of Delmar, leading to the formal separation of the town into two parts: Delmar, Maryland, and Delmar, Delaware. Despite this division, the two towns have maintained a close relationship, sharing community services and events.
Throughout the 20th century, Delmar faced challenges such as economic recessions and changing industry trends. The decline of the railroad and the rise of automobile transportation shifted the town's focus away from its status as a transportation hub. However, Delmar's strong sense of community and its location along major highways have helped it adapt and maintain its vitality.
Today, Delmar continues to grow and evolve. It remains a small town with a population of around 4,300 residents. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, community events, and its proximity to various natural attractions, such as the Wicomico River and the Chesapeake Bay. Delmar's history as a crossroads and a hub of commerce is still reflected in its charming downtown area, which features a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and shops.
Attractions
Delmar Raceway
A popular dirt track racing venue that hosts various racing events, including stock car races, drag races, and motocross.
Cove Road Beach
A scenic beach area located on Chesapeake Bay, offering swimming, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
Wicomico County Fair
An annual event held in Delmar, featuring carnival rides, livestock exhibits, live entertainment, and a wide range of food vendors.
Delaware International Speedway
Situated just outside Delmar, this racetrack is known for hosting thrilling stock car races and hosting special events like demolition derbies.
Holly Oak Park
A beautiful public park with playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond.
Delmarva Shorebirds Stadium
Home to the Delmarva Shorebirds, a minor league baseball team, this stadium offers a fun family-friendly atmosphere to watch a game.
Florence Eaton Park
A community park featuring sports fields, playgrounds, a skate park, and a walking track.
Delmar Farmer's Market
A seasonal market offering fresh produce, local products, handmade crafts, and live entertainment.
Salisbury Zoo
Although not located in Delmar, it is just a short drive away. This FREE zoo is home to over 100 animals and features beautiful walking paths and educational exhibits.
Delmarva Discovery Center
Situated in Pocomoke City, Maryland, this interactive museum showcases the unique heritage and ecology of the Delmarva Peninsula, including exhibits on local wildlife, history, and culture.
Climate
The climate of Delmar, Maryland can be classified as a humid subtropical climate. It has four distinct seasons with generally mild winters and hot, humid summers.
During the winter months of December to February, temperatures range from around 30°F (-1°C) to 50°F (10°C), with occasional dips below freezing. Snowfall is relatively limited, averaging around 10 inches per year, and typically occurs a few times during the winter months.
Spring, from March to May, brings warming temperatures with highs ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). Rainfall is moderate during this season, with occasional showers and thunderstorms.
Summer, from June to August, is hot and humid. High temperatures can reach the 90s°F (30s°C), and humidity levels can be quite uncomfortable. July and August are the wettest months, receiving the highest amount of rainfall throughout the year.
In fall, from September to November, the temperatures begin to cool down again, with highs ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 70°F (21°C). This season is also known for its vibrant foliage as the leaves change colors.
Overall, Delmar experiences a relatively mild climate with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Delmar, Maryland is a small town located on the border between Maryland and Delaware. As such, it shares some characteristics and community ties with its neighboring town, Delmar, Delaware. While the town itself may not have distinct neighborhoods in the traditional sense, there are a few areas within Delmar that have their own unique characteristics. Here are some notable areas within or near Delmar, MD:
Downtown Delmar
This is the central area of the town, where you'll find small businesses, stores, restaurants, and community services. It serves as the commercial and cultural hub of Delmar, hosting various events and gatherings throughout the year.
Delmar Industrial Park
Located towards the north of Delmar, the industrial park is the economic engine of the area. It primarily consists of warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and businesses related to logistics and distribution. It provides employment opportunities for many residents of Delmar.
Residential Subdivisions
There are several residential subdivisions scattered throughout Delmar. Some of the notable ones include Holly Ridge, Country Grove, and Yorkshire Estates. These neighborhoods provide a mix of housing options, ranging from single-family homes to apartments, and are often family-friendly, with amenities like parks and playgrounds.
Delmar Speedway Area
Just east of Delmar, near the Maryland-Delaware border, you'll find the Delmar Speedway, a popular racetrack that hosts various motorsport events. The area around the speedway is known for its motorsport enthusiasts and visitors attending events.
Delaware Neighbor
Although it is technically in a different state, Delmar, Delaware is closely connected to Delmar, Maryland. Many residents may commute between the two towns for work or leisure, creating a sense of regional community and shared amenities.
Overall, Delmar, MD is a close-knit community with a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Its small-town atmosphere, combined with its proximity to Delaware, offers a unique living experience for its residents.