[3][5][6] This crossing was an important link between Maryland and northern states in the 19th century.

During the American Civil War, it was guarded on its southern approach, and some of the bridge decking was removed to prevent surreptitious crossing.

[7] On June 6, 1907, "firebugs" set fire to the 1859 bridge using kerosene.

[4] In 1911, the state of Maryland bought the bridge and ended the tolls.

The road crossing moved to the top of the dam.