Ferndale, MD
County: Anne Arundel
History
Ferndale is a small community located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, United States. The area was initially settled in the late 19th century and was primarily an agricultural community that relied on farming and dairy production.
The community's name is believed to have been derived from the abundance of ferns that grew in the local area. Ferndale's central location in Anne Arundel County made it an ideal location for transportation and trade. The Baltimore and Annapolis Railroad, which was completed in 1887, ran through the community and brought increased economic activity.
In the early 20th century, Ferndale saw significant growth and development. The proximity to the railroad line attracted businesses such as a lumberyard, a cannery, a seed mill, and a red clay brick manufacturing plant. These industries provided employment opportunities for the local residents and contributed to the growth of the community.
During World War II, Ferndale experienced a boom due to increased industrial production and manufacturing associated with the war effort. The Glenn L. Martin Company, an aircraft manufacturing company, opened a plant in neighboring Middle River, which attracted many workers from Ferndale.
Over the years, Ferndale has undergone changes and faced challenges. The decline of the railroad industry and the shift towards suburbanization affected the community. Many of the old industrial facilities and businesses closed down, and the area became more residential in nature.
Today, Ferndale is a residential suburb located near Baltimore and is home to a diverse population. The community continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and demands of its residents. Despite these changes, Ferndale still retains a sense of community spirit and its agricultural past can still be seen in some small farms that have remained in the area.
Attractions
Ferndale, MD is a small unincorporated community located in Anne Arundel County. While it may not have major tourist attractions of its own, there are several nearby places of interest that visitors can explore. Here are some attractions in the surrounding area:
Fort George G. Meade
Located just a short distance from Ferndale, Fort Meade is a U.S. Army post that offers a range of activities. Visitors can learn about military history at the Fort Meade Museum, explore outdoor recreational areas, or catch a live performance at the Fort Meade Regional Concert Band.
National Cryptologic Museum
Situated adjacent to Fort Meade, the National Cryptologic Museum is dedicated to the history of U.S. cryptology. Visitors can discover artifacts related to code-breaking, encryption machines, and learn about real-world intelligence operations throughout history.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
A short drive away, Baltimore's Inner Harbor is a vibrant waterfront area with numerous attractions, including the National Aquarium, historic ships, popular restaurants, shops, and museums. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, visit the Baltimore Museum of Industry, or take a scenic walk along the harbor.
Maryland Live! Casino
For those interested in gaming and entertainment, Maryland Live! Casino is located in Hanover, just a few minutes' drive from Ferndale. This casino offers a variety of table games, slot machines, live entertainment, and dining options.
Arundel Mills Mall
Situated alongside Maryland Live! Casino, Arundel Mills Mall is the largest outlet mall in the state. Visitors can enjoy shopping at more than 200 stores, catch a movie at the IMAX theater, or dine at a range of restaurants.
These attractions are within a short drive from Ferndale and provide diverse options for entertainment, history, shopping, and outdoor activities.
Climate
Ferndale, in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The area has four distinct seasons, with mild winters and hot summers.
During the summer months, from June to August, Ferndale can be quite hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). It is not uncommon for temperatures to occasionally reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) or higher, especially during heatwaves. Summers also bring occasional thunderstorms and showers, which can be heavy at times.
Fall, spanning from September to November, is mild and pleasant in Ferndale. Average temperatures gradually decrease, starting in the high 60s Fahrenheit (around 20 degrees Celsius) in September and often reaching the mid-50s Fahrenheit (12-14 degrees Celsius) by November. These months are also known for vibrant foliage as the leaves change color.
Winter in Ferndale, from December to February, is relatively mild compared to more northern areas. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (1-7 degrees Celsius). Though snowfall is relatively infrequent, Ferndale can still experience occasional snow or ice storms, but they tend to be less severe than in higher latitudes.
Spring, from March to May, brings a blend of mild and sometimes chilly weather. Temperatures gradually increase from the high 40s to the high 60s Fahrenheit (9-20 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is more frequent during this season, with occasional showers and possibly thunderstorms.
Overall, Ferndale experiences a pleasant seasonal variation in its climate, with hot summers, mild falls, relatively mild winters, and mild to warm springs.
Neighborhoods
Ferndale is a small community located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. While Ferndale itself is not divided into official neighborhoods, there are a few distinct areas within or adjacent to Ferndale that can be considered as different sections or communities. Here are some of the notable areas:
Old Ferndale
This is the original settlement of Ferndale, which still retains much of its historic charm. It is mainly comprised of older homes and has a close-knit community feel. The area is characterized by tree-lined streets and a mix of traditional houses.
Ferndale Farms
Located in the northeastern part of Ferndale, Ferndale Farms is a residential area with a semi-rural atmosphere. The neighborhood features larger properties with spacious yards, often suitable for farming or keeping horses. It provides a more serene and peaceful living environment compared to some other areas.
Maryland City/Ferndale
A neighboring community that borders Ferndale, Maryland City/Ferndale is primarily a residential area. It is known for its diverse housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It has a suburban feel, and residents have easy access to amenities such as shopping centers and parks.
Linthicum
Another adjacent community, Linthicum is sometimes considered part of Ferndale. It is known for its proximity to the Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), making it an attractive location for frequent travelers. Linthicum features various housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.
South Gate
Located a short distance from Ferndale, South Gate is a well-established community. It offers a mix of housing styles, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. South Gate has its own shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities, making it a self-contained neighborhood.
These are just a few of the notable areas near Ferndale in Anne Arundel County, each with its own unique character and amenities.