Thurmont, MD Facts, Population, Income, Demographics, Economy

Population (total): Population in 2017: 6,646 (98% urban, 2% rural). >Population change since 2000: +18.9%

Population (female): 3,411

Land Area: 2.97 square miles.

The Western Maryland Railway built its main railroad through Thurmont, connecting the town with Baltimore, and later with Hagerstown and Cumberland. On June 17, 1905, 16 men from Thurmont were killed in a railway wreck in Ransom, Maryland when a westbound freight train collided head-on with another train. All Thurmont businesses were closed on the Monday following the accident, and it became an event that had a lasting effect on the entire community. Another large railway accident occurred on June 25, 1915 when the Blue Mountain Express train hit another train head-on just west of Thurmont, killing 6 people. Charles Eyler, who was 17 years old at the time of the crash, said the following: "People were still wondering the next day how the two engines had stayed on the rails. But it was easy to see how the wreck had occurred. The bridge is 'blind' from both directions."

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Recognitions and Certifications

Accredited Drug Testing has been recognized as one of the "Top 10 drug testing companies" for excellent customer service and we have received TPA Accreditation from the National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association. We are active in all drug testing industry associations and our staff are trained and certified as drug and alcohol testing specialists.

Important Links

National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association (https://ndasa.com/)

National Drug Free Workplace Alliance (https://www.ndwa.org/)

Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association (https://www.sapaa.com/)

Substance Abuse Mental Health Safety Administration (https://www.samhsa.gov/)

US Drug Enforcement Administration (https://www.dea.gov/)

Office of Drug alcohol Policy Control (https://www.transportation.gov/odapc)

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DOT Drug Testing Locations Thurmont, MD

Our Local DOT Drug testing facilities in Thurmont, MD and the surrounding areas provide DOT Drug Testing, DOT Alcohol Testing, DOT Physicals, Consortium enrollment and other DOT services for Employers, Single operators and all DOT modes that are required to comply with 49 CFR Part 40 in Thurmont, MD including FMCSA, FTA, FAA, USCG, FRA and PHMSA . Testing centers are within minutes of your home or office and same-day service is available in most cases.

Scheduling a DOT test is Fast and Easy, call our scheduling department or schedule your test online 24/7

* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center.

2105 E MAIN ST 11.8 miles

2105 E MAIN ST
WAYNESBORO, PA 17268
Categories: WAYNESBORO PA

501 E MAIN ST 12.2 miles

501 E MAIN ST
WAYNESBORO, PA 17268
Categories: WAYNESBORO PA

626 E Main St, 12.4 miles

626 E Main St,
Waynesboro, PA 17268
Categories: Waynesboro PA

141 THOMAS JOHNSON DR STE 100 12.4 miles

141 THOMAS JOHNSON DR STE 100
FREDERICK, MD 21702
Categories: FREDERICK MD

1560 Opossumtown Pike Ste A-22, 12.9 miles

1560 Opossumtown Pike Ste A-22,
Frederick, MD 21702
Categories: Frederick MD

915 Toll House Ave Ste 203, 13.6 miles

915 Toll House Ave Ste 203,
Frederick, MD 21701
Categories: Frederick MD

400 W 7TH ST 13.8 miles

400 W 7TH ST
FREDERICK, MD 21701
Categories: FREDERICK MD

11110 MEDICAL CAMPUS RD STE 145 14.3 miles

11110 MEDICAL CAMPUS RD STE 145
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21742
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

1826 DUAL HWY 14.9 miles

1826 DUAL HWY
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

1741 DUAL HWY STE A 15.0 miles

1741 DUAL HWY STE A
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

490 PROSPECT BLVD STE L 15.0 miles

490 PROSPECT BLVD STE L
FREDERICK, MD 21701
Categories: FREDERICK MD

ON-SITE ONLY 15.5 miles

ON-SITE ONLY
Boonsboro, MD 21713
Categories: Boonsboro MD

19426 LEITERSBURG PIKE 15.7 miles

19426 LEITERSBURG PIKE
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21742
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

332 MILL ST 16.4 miles

332 MILL ST
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

338 MILL ST 16.4 miles

338 MILL ST
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

147 GETTYS ST 16.7 miles

147 GETTYS ST
GETTYSBURG, PA 17325
Categories: GETTYSBURG PA

13424 PENNSYLVANIA AVE STE 103 17.0 miles

13424 PENNSYLVANIA AVE STE 103
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21742
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

10 SPRINGS AVE 17.0 miles

10 SPRINGS AVE
GETTYSBURG, PA 17325
Categories: GETTYSBURG PA

40 V-TWIN DR Ste 205 17.1 miles

40 V-TWIN DR Ste 205
GETTYSBURG, PA 17325
Categories: GETTYSBURG PA

40 V-TWIN DR 17.1 miles

40 V-TWIN DR
GETTYSBURG, PA 17325
Categories: GETTYSBURG PA

1075 SHERMAN AVE STE E 17.6 miles

1075 SHERMAN AVE STE E
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

10715 DOWNSVILLE PIKE 18.3 miles

10715 DOWNSVILLE PIKE
HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740
Categories: HAGERSTOWN MD

50 EASTERN AVE STE 145 19.7 miles

50 EASTERN AVE STE 145
GREENCASTLE, PA 17225
Categories: GREENCASTLE PA

700 CORPORATE CENTER CT STE A 22.0 miles

700 CORPORATE CENTER CT STE A
WESTMINSTER, MD 21157
Categories: WESTMINSTER MD

205 CENTER STREET, SUITE 204 22.0 miles

205 CENTER STREET, SUITE 204
MOUNT AIRY, MD 21771
Categories: MOUNT AIRY MD

307 E POTOMAC ST RT 11 22.2 miles

307 E POTOMAC ST RT 11
WILLIAMSPORT, MD 21795
Categories: WILLIAMSPORT MD

844 WASHINGTON RD, STE 203 22.9 miles

844 WASHINGTON RD, STE 203
WESTMINSTER, MD 21157
Categories: WESTMINSTER MD

826 WASHINGTON RD 22.9 miles

826 WASHINGTON RD
WESTMINSTER, MD 21157
Categories: WESTMINSTER MD

222 Washington Road, 22.9 miles

222 Washington Road,
Westminster, MD 21157
Categories: Westminster MD

226 WASHINGTON HTS MED CTR A 23.0 miles

226 WASHINGTON HTS MED CTR A
WESTMINSTER, MD 21157
Categories: WESTMINSTER MD

1610 ORCHARD DR 24.2 miles

1610 ORCHARD DR
CHAMBERSBURG, PA 17201
Categories: CHAMBERSBURG PA

301 WATERSVILLE RD 24.3 miles

301 WATERSVILLE RD
MOUNT AIRY, MD 21771
Categories: MOUNT AIRY MD

1048 LINCOLN WAY E STE 101 24.4 miles

1048 LINCOLN WAY E STE 101
CHAMBERSBURG, PA 17201
Categories: CHAMBERSBURG PA

144 S 8th St, 24.7 miles

144 S 8th St,
Chambersburg, PA 17201
Categories: Chambersburg PA

112 N 7TH ST 24.9 miles

112 N 7TH ST
CHAMBERSBURG, PA 17201
Categories: CHAMBERSBURG PA

(Don't see a DOT drug testing location near you, call us at (800) 221-4291)

Accredited Drug Testing can schedule your DOT drug test at any of our Thurmont, MD Drug testing locations, Call us Today!

"When you need a test, choose the best"

(800) 221-4291

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How to schedule a DOT drug test in Thurmont, MD

To schedule any type of DOT drug test or alcohol test in Thurmont, MD call our local scheduling department at (800) 221-4291. You may also schedule your DOT drug test online utilizing our express scheduling registration system by selecting your test and completing the Donor Information/Registration Section. You must register for the test prior to proceeding to the testing center.

The zip code you enter will be used to determine the closest DOT drug or DOT alcohol testing center that performs the type of test you have selected. A donor pass/registration form with the local testing center address, hours of operation and instructions will be sent to the e-mail address you provided. Take this form with you or have it available on your smartphone to provide to the testing center. No appointment is necessary in most cases. However, you must complete the donor information section and pay for the test at the time of registration.

Our laboratories are SAMHSA-certified and all test results are verified by our in-house licensed physicians who serve as Medical Review Officers (MRO).

In addition to providing DOT drug testing and DOT breath alcohol testing in Thurmont, MD , Accredited Drug Testing also has additional testing centers throughout the metropolitan area and surrounding cities.

On the road or on vacation, no worries, Accredited Drug Testing has over 20,000 testing centers in all cities Nationwide and we can schedule your test, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!

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DOT Changes to Part 40

On May 2, 2023, the Department of Transportation published its final rule in the Federal Register to include oral fluid testing in the DOT drug testing program.  This final rule became effective June 1, 2023.

Please note that DOT oral fluid testing cannot be implemented as of yet until the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) certifies at least two laboratories. One as a primary lab and a second lab to serve as split specimen testing.

Changes to DOT-regulated employees?

DOT-regulated safety-sensitive employees can now be subject to an oral fluid collection or urine drug testing collection for ANY DOT-regulated test and this choice is up to the employer.  DOT has also authorized that Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) evaluations may continue to be conducted remotely.

How do these changes affect DOT employers?

Employers must select what methodology they would like to use for their drug testing program (randoms' oral fluid, pre-employment urine, etc). Ensure you have a business relationship/agreement with any collections site for the services you wish to use for your drug testing program.  As an employer, you must also have your Designated Employer representative available 24-7 in the event any problem collections or situations arise or to discuss any standing orders that may arise for problem collections.

What are the DOT drug testing requirements?.

In 1991, the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act created the following DOT Agencies which established drug and alcohol testing regulations to ensure that aircraft, trains, trucks, and buses were operated in a safe and responsible manner. As an employer or individual operating in a "Safety Sensitive" position, it is important to understand how these regulations impact you.

49 CFR Part 40 (commonly known as Part 40) explains:

  • How drug and alcohol testing is conducted
  • Who is authorized to participate in the drug and alcohol testing program
  • What employees must do before they may return to duty after a drug and/or alcohol violation

Each DOT Agency and the USCG have specific regulations that cover:

  • The agency's prohibitions on drug and alcohol use
  • Who is subject to comply with these regulations
  • What type of testing is required
  • When testing is required
  • Consequences of non-compliance

FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) amended its rule that would establish requirements for commercial driver's license employers and individuals with regard to the drug and alcohol clearing house which will take effect on January 6, 2020.

The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a secure online database that will allow employers, the FMCSA, State Driver Licensing Agencies, State Law Enforcement and individual CDL operators to access real-time important information about a CDL Driver's drug and alcohol program violations and the ultimate goal of this database is to enhance safety on our Nation's public roadways.

For specific requirements, click the appropriate agency listed below in which you or your company is regulated by. Ask about our DOT Complete Compliance Package!

The Opioid Overdose Crisis

Every day, more than 130 people in the United States die after overdosing on opioids. The misuse of and addiction to opioids,including prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, is a serious national crisis that affects public health as well as social and economic welfare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the total "economic burden" of prescription opioid misuse alone in the United States is $78.5 billion a year, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement.

  • Roughly 21 to 29 percent of patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain misuse them.
  • Between 8 and 12 percent develop an opioid use disorder.
  • An estimated 4 to 6 percent who misuse prescription opioids transition to heroin.
  • About 80 percent of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids.
  • Opioid overdoses increased 30 percent from July 2016 through September 2017 in 52 areas in 45 states.
  • The Midwestern region saw opioid overdoses increase 70 percent from July 2016 through September 2017.
  • Opioid overdoses in large cities increased by 54 percent in 16 states.

In the late 1990s, pharmaceutical companies reassured the medical community that patients would not become addicted to prescription opioid pain relievers, and healthcare providers began to prescribe them at greater rates. This subsequently led to widespread diversion and misuse of these medications before it became clear that these medications could indeed be highly addictive.3,4 Opioid overdose rates began to increase. In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died as a result of an opioid overdose, including prescription opioids, heroin, and illicitly manufactured fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.1That same year, an estimated 1.7 million people in the United States suffered from substance use disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers, and 652,000 suffered from a heroin use disorder (not mutually exclusive)

DOT Compliance Checklist in Thurmont, MD

DOT 49 CFR Part 40 Requirements for Safety Sensitive Employees.
(FMCSA-FAA-USCG-FRA-PHMSA-FTA)

  • Pre-Employment Tests
  • Correct Federal Custody & Control Form (CCF)
  • Substance Abuse Professional Process
  • Regulations on File
  • Random Pool Testing
  • *Supervisor Training
  • *Written Policy
  • Post-Accident Testing Situations
  • Previous Employers Checks
  • Employee Education
  • Record Keeping
  • Removal of covered Employee
  • Designated Employer Representative

* In addition, any company which employs 2 or more covered employees must have a written drug and alcohol policy and all supervisors must complete the DOT Supervisor Reasonable Suspicion Training. (Click here to learn more about our online training programs)

If a DOT covered employee or company does not have a copy of the original pre-employment drug test with a negative result, then a new DOT pre-employment drug test must be conducted, and the result maintained on file.

The department of transportation (DOT) requires that all DOT regulated "safety sensitive" employees have on file a negative DOT pre-employment drug test result and be a member of a DOT approved random selection consortium. In addition, if a DOT regulated company has more than one "safety sensitive" employee, the employer must also have a written DOT drug and alcohol policy and an on-site supervisor must have completed supervisor training for reasonable suspicion of illegal drug use or impairment.

To be compliant with DOT regulations, a company's DOT drug and alcohol testing program must have the following components. Failing to comply can result in significant fines and penalties.

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What is a DOT Drug Test in Thurmont, MD ?

On January 1, 2018 the Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a new rule which altered the DOT 5 panel urine test. Employers and individuals should be aware that the current DOT drug test is still a urine drug test, collected by qualified collectors, analyzed at a SAMHSA certified laboratory and reviewed by a licensed Medical Review Officer. Below you will find a list of the drugs that are screened for in the DOT 5 panel urine drug test:

  • Marijuana (THC)
  • Cocaine
  • Amphetamines
  • Opioids**
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)
  • ** Special note: Opioids' was previously called Opiates' and all DOT drug tests will continue to include confirmation testing for Codeine, Morphine, and 6-AM (heroin) when necessary.

    In the January rule change, the Department of Transportation (DOT) also added initial screening and confirmation testing for the semi-synthetic opioids Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, and Oxymorphone to this Opioids group

    When is a DOT drug test required in Thurmont, MD ?

    All safety sensitive employees regardless of DOT agency are required for the following drug testing and/or alcohol testing based on each situation:

    • Pre-employment
    • Random
    • Reasonable suspicion
    • Return to Duty
    • Post-Accident
    • Follow Up

What is DOT pre employment testing in Thurmont, MD ?

As a new hire or a current employee transferring from a non-safety sensitive function into a safety sensitive function (even with the same employer), you are required to submit to a DOT pre employment drug test.

Some employers may, but are not required to, conduct pre employment alcohol testing. Only after your employer receives a negative pre employment DOT drug test result (and negative alcohol test result - if administered) may you begin performing in a safety-sensitive capacity.

What is random DOT Drug Testing in Thurmont, MD ?

All safety sensitive employees are subject to unannounced random drug & alcohol testing. Alcohol testing is administered just prior to, during or just after performing safety-sensitive functions. Depending on the industry specific regulations, you may only be subject to random drug testing.

Listed below are the current (2019) DOT random testing rates for each DOT agency.

The following chart outlines the annual minimum drug and alcohol random testing rates established within DOT Agencies and the USCG for 2019.
DOT Agency 2019 Random Drug Testing Rate 2019 Random Alcohol Testing Rate
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
[FMCSA]
25% 10%
Federal Aviation Administration
[FAA]
25% 10%
Federal Railroad Administration
[FRA]
25% - Covered Service
50% - Maintenance of Way *
10% - Covered Service
25% - Maintenance of Way *
Federal Transit Administration
[FTA]
50% 10%
United States Coast Guard
[USCG]
(with the Dept. of Homeland Security)
50% N/A
The following chart outlines the annual minimum drug and alcohol random testing rates established within DOT Agencies and the USCG for 2019.
DOT Agency
2019 Random Drug Testing Rate
2019 Random Alcohol Testing Rate
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [FMCSA]
25%
10%
Federal Aviation Administration [FAA]
25%
10%
Federal Railroad Administration [FRA]
25% - Covered Service / 50% - Maintenance of Way *
10% - Covered Service / 25% - Maintenance of Way *
Federal Transit Administration [FTA]
50%
10%
United States Coast Guard [USCG]
(with the Dept. of Homeland Security)
50%
N/A

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What is reasonable suspicion DOT drug testing in Thurmont, MD ?

Safety sensitive individuals and employees are required to submit to any test (whether it is a drug test, alcohol test or both) that a supervisor requests based on reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion means that one or more trained supervisors reasonably believes or suspects that you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Supervisors cannot require testing based on a hunch or guess alone; their suspicion must be based on observations concerning your appearance, behavior, speech and smell that are usually associated with drug or alcohol use

What is return to duty DOT Drug Testing in Thurmont, MD ?

If you have violated the prohibited drug & alcohol testing rules, you are required to take a return to duty drug and/or alcohol test before being allowed to return to a safety-sensitive function for any DOT regulated employer. You may also be subject to unannounced follow-up testing for at least 6 times in the first 12 months following your return to active safety-sensitive service.

Return-to-duty tests must be conducted under direct observation.

What is DOT post accident drug testing Thurmont, MD ?

If you are involved in an event (accident, crash, etc.) meeting certain criteria of the DOT agency, a post-accident drug test will be required. In most cases you will then have to take a drug and alcohol test if you are involved in a qualifying crash. Each DOT agency may have specific rules with regards to what is a post-accident test, for example, the FRA requires a blood specimen for drug testing and an alcohol test.

If you are involved in a qualifying accident, you are required to remain available for this testing and are not permitted to refuse testing.

Remember: Safety-sensitive employees are obligated by law to submit to and cooperate in drug & alcohol testing mandated by DOT regulations.

What is DOT follow up drug testing Thurmont, MD ?

DOT follow up testing occurs when an individual has violated the drug and alcohol testing rules. The amount of follow-up testing you receive is determined by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and may continue for up to 5 years. This means the SAP will determine how many times you will be tested (at least 6 times in the first year), for how long, and for what substance (i.e. drugs, alcohol, or both). Your employer is responsible for ensuring that follow-up testing is conducted and completed. Follow up testing is in addition to all other DOT required testing and all follow-up tests will be observed. For more information on the SAP process or to locate a Substance Abuse Professional in Thurmont, MD simply call us at (800)221-4291

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DOT Drug Testing Services Thurmont, MD

(800)221-4291

For more information regarding the effects of drug abuse - Click Here

For more information on a drug free work place - Click Here

Handy Resources

Comprehensive Online Resources for Drug Testing

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

    Provides comprehensive information on drug testing and its role in substance use disorder treatment.

  2. FDA: Drug Testing

    Explains the FDA's role and regulations concerning drug testing for consumers.

  3. PDR.net

    Provides detailed drug information and safety updates through a mobile-friendly platform.

  4. BeSafeRx - FDA

    Resource by the FDA to help consumers identify and choose safe online pharmacies.

  5. SAMHSA: Drug Testing Resources for the Workplace

    Resources and guidelines for drug testing in the workplace.

  6. Drugs.com

    Provides drug information, side effects, and interactions for consumers and professionals.

  7. Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST)

    Online version of the DAST to help individuals assess whether they have a drug problem.

  8. Merck Manuals

    Consumer-friendly medical resource providing comprehensive information on a wide array of health topics, including drug testing.

  9. SAMHSA Store

    Provides access to resources and publications on substance use prevention and treatment.

  10. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)

    Information on state boards of pharmacy and regulations, including those related to drug testing.

  11. CDC: Workplace Health Promotion

    CDC's resources on substance use and drug testing in the workplace.

  12. Mayo Clinic: Drug Testing

    General information about the procedures and types of drug tests.

  13. MedlinePlus: Drug Testing

    Offers information about various drug tests and their uses in medical diagnosis and treatment.

  14. University of Rochester Medical Center Health Encyclopedia

    Provides a detailed entry on drug testing, including how tests are conducted and what they detect.

  15. World Health Organization (WHO)

    International guidelines and information on public health, including substance abuse and drug testing.

  16. Healthline: Drug Testing

    Consumer health site offering information on how drug tests work and what they look for.

  17. WebMD: Drug Testing

    Provides a patient-oriented overview of drug testing and its purposes.

  18. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)

    Provides a vast database of scientific studies, including research on drug testing and its effectiveness.

AI Overview

Overview of Drug Testing Collection Locations

Drug testing collection locations are designated sites where individuals provide samples for drug testing. These facilities are crucial in supporting compliance with workplace, legal, and health standards. They serve a variety of sectors, including employment, law enforcement, sports, and healthcare. This overview explores the features, types of locations, and the role they play in drug testing processes.

Types of Drug Testing Collection Locations

  • Occupational Health Clinics: Many clinics offer drug testing services as part of broader occupational health support.
  • Hospital-Based Laboratories: Some hospitals have specific departments dedicated to drug testing, particularly for medical or legal purposes.
  • Third-Party Laboratory Facilities: Independent labs that specialize in toxicology may also conduct drug testing, often used by employers for employment screening.
  • Mobile Collection Units: These are portable facilities that can travel to workplaces or institutions, providing convenient access to drug testing services.

Role of Collection Locations in Drug Testing

Collection locations are integral to the drug testing process, ensuring that samples are collected in a controlled and secure environment. The main responsibilities include:

  1. Ensuring Sample Integrity: Implementing procedures that prevent tampering or contamination of samples.
  2. Maintaining Privacy: Providing a private space for individuals to give samples while respecting their confidentiality.
  3. Compliance with Standards: Adhering to regulatory and legal standards for drug testing, which may vary by jurisdiction and industry.

Choosing the Right Collection Location

When selecting a drug testing collection location, consider the following factors:

  • Accreditation: Ensure the facility is accredited by relevant health and safety organizations.
  • Proximity: Choose a location that is conveniently accessible, reducing the time and disruption associated with the testing process.
  • Services Offered: Some locations may offer rapid results or additional screening services, which can be beneficial depending on the testing needs.

Drug testing collection locations are essential for conducting effective and reliable drug screenings. They support the enforcement of drug-free policies in various settings by providing professional and standardized testing services. For consumers and organizations alike, understanding the role and choosing the appropriate collection location is key to achieving accurate drug testing outcomes.

Local Area Info: Thurmont, Maryland

Thurmont is a town in Frederick County, Maryland, United States. The population was 6,170 at the 2010 census. The town is located in the northern part of Frederick County (north of Frederick, Maryland, the county seat), approximately ten miles from the Pennsylvania border, along U.S. Highway 15. It is very close to Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park, which contains the presidential retreat of Camp David. Thurmont is also home to Catoctin Colorfest, an arts and crafts festival that draws in about 125,000 people each autumn.

Originally incorporated as the Town of Mechanicstown in 1751, the name of the town was changed to Thurmont by an act of Maryland General Assembly on January 18, 1894. This name change was due to several other nearby towns having similar names, such as Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania and Mechanicsville, Maryland. Charles E. Cassell, editor of the local newspaper Catoctin Clarion was the one to suggest the name Thurmont and promoted debate about the name change in the Clarion. Some of the names considered included Beaufort, Eastmont, Glenmont, Monduru, Fern Glen, and Blue Point. Eventually, the options were pared down to two main contenders: Cassell's suggestion of Thurmont, and local real estate broker Charles Shipley's suggestion of Blue Mountain City, which he argued was "appropriate" and "pretty" during an address at a town meeting in December 1893. In the December 14, 1893 issue, the Clarion printed the following:

By the end of December 1893, there had been several rounds of voting and Thurmont had been officially chosen as the town's new name. The Clarion noted, however, that "the reception of a letter from the Postoffice Department saying that the name 'Blue Mountain City' would not be approved by the Department as there is an office called 'Blue Mountain' in the State, probably defeated the choice of that name."

Show Regional Data

Population (total): Population in 2017: 6,646 (98% urban, 2% rural). >Population change since 2000: +18.9%

Population (female): 3,411

Land Area: 2.97 square miles.

The Western Maryland Railway built its main railroad through Thurmont, connecting the town with Baltimore, and later with Hagerstown and Cumberland. On June 17, 1905, 16 men from Thurmont were killed in a railway wreck in Ransom, Maryland when a westbound freight train collided head-on with another train. All Thurmont businesses were closed on the Monday following the accident, and it became an event that had a lasting effect on the entire community. Another large railway accident occurred on June 25, 1915 when the Blue Mountain Express train hit another train head-on just west of Thurmont, killing 6 people. Charles Eyler, who was 17 years old at the time of the crash, said the following: "People were still wondering the next day how the two engines had stayed on the rails. But it was easy to see how the wreck had occurred. The bridge is 'blind' from both directions."

(800) 221-4291