County of montgomery
maryland
History & Founding
Located in the heart of Maryland, this county boasts a rich history stretching back to 1741, when it was carved from Prince George’s and Frederick Counties. The name honors Richard Montgomery, a Scottish-American military officer who fought for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. While Montgomery tragically died at the Battle of Quebec, his legacy inspired the naming of the county, a testament to the burgeoning patriotic spirit of the time. Initially a largely agrarian region, the county played a vital role in Maryland’s development, supplying agricultural products and manpower to the state and the young nation. An interesting anecdote from its early days involves a dispute over the county seat – initially Georgetown, it shifted to Rockville after a spirited debate, highlighting the growing importance of the northern region of the county.
Geography & Landscape
Geographically, it sits nestled within the Piedmont Plateau, a region characterized by rolling hills and fertile valleys. The landscape is a blend of picturesque farmland, dense forests, and increasingly, vibrant suburban communities. Several rivers, including the Potomac, Anacostia, and Little Patuxent, crisscross the county, contributing to its scenic beauty and providing vital water resources. While no towering mountains reside within its boundaries, the proximity to the Appalachian foothills creates a gently undulating terrain. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm, humid summers and mild winters. Notable natural features include the Great Falls of the Potomac, a spectacular series of waterfalls that mark the border with Virginia.
Economy & Communities
The economy is a dynamic mix of established industries and emerging sectors. Numerous towns and municipalities, numbering 44, contribute to the county's diverse character, ranging from historic villages to bustling urban centers. Major towns include Bethesda, Germantown, Gaithersburg, and Silver Spring, each with its own distinct flavor. Historically, agriculture played a significant role, but today, the economy is largely driven by technology, government services, healthcare, and professional services. Notable employers include the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Lockheed Martin, and numerous federal agencies. The area has transformed from a largely rural landscape to a predominantly suburban and urban environment, attracting a diverse population drawn to its job opportunities and quality of life.
Points of Interest
The county offers a wealth of attractions for residents and visitors alike. Numerous parks, including Rock Creek Regional Park and Seneca Creek State Park, provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Historic sites, such as the William Paca House and Garden, offer glimpses into the county’s colonial past. The Strathmore Arts Center hosts a variety of cultural performances and exhibitions. The annual Montgomery County Fair is a beloved tradition. The county has also been home to numerous notable residents, including several prominent scientists, artists, and politicians. Notably, Montgomery County consistently ranks among the most educated counties in the United States, reflecting its commitment to learning and innovation. Its FIPS code is 031, and it operates within the UTC-5 time zone.
Information
- State
- maryland
- Type
- County
- Population
- 873,341
- Land area
- 495 sq mi
- Capital
- Rockville
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 24031
44 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Spring | 76,540 | 340 ft (104 m) |
| Germantown | 55,419 | - |
| Bethesda | 55,277 | 303 ft (92 m) |
| Gaithersburg | 52,613 | 508 ft (155 m) |
| Aspen Hill | 50,228 | 330 ft (101 m) |
| Rockville | 47,388 | 451 ft (137 m) |
| Potomac | 44,822 | - |
| North Bethesda | 38,610 | - |
| Montgomery Village | 38,051 | 380 ft (116 m) |
| Olney | 31,438 | 540 ft (165 m) |
| North Potomac | 23,044 | 257 ft (78 m) |
| Fairland | 21,738 | 414 ft (126 m) |
| White Oak | 20,973 | 390 ft (119 m) |
| Colesville | 19,810 | 440 ft (134 m) |
| Takoma Park | 17,299 | 250 ft (76 m) |
| Redland | 16,998 | 506 ft (154 m) |
| Damascus | 11,430 | 828 ft (252 m) |
| Kemp Mill | 9,956 | - |
| Chevy Chase | 9,381 | 350 ft (107 m) |
| North Kensington | 8,940 | 310 ft (94 m) |
| South Kensington | 7,887 | - |
| Cloverly | 7,835 | 528 ft (161 m) |
| Rossmoor | 7,569 | - |
| Travilah | 7,442 | 356 ft (109 m) |
| Forest Glen | 7,344 | 309 ft (94 m) |
| Burtonsville | 7,305 | 486 ft (148 m) |
| Darnestown | 6,378 | 449 ft (137 m) |
| Poolesville | 5,151 | 400 ft (122 m) |
| Friendship Village | 4,512 | - |
| Brookmont | 3,202 | 150 ft (46 m) |
| Hillandale | 3,054 | 280 ft (85 m) |
| Chevy Chase Village | 2,043 | 310 ft (94 m) |
| Kensington | 1,873 | - |
| Clarksburg | 1,834 | 658 ft (201 m) |
| Cabin John | 1,734 | 153 ft (47 m) |
| Somerset | 1,124 | - |
| Garrett Park | 917 | 314 ft (96 m) |
| Chevy Chase View | 863 | 328 ft (100 m) |
| Chevy Chase Section Three | 773 | 350 ft (107 m) |
| Chevy Chase Section Five | 641 | 285 ft (87 m) |
| Washington Grove | 515 | 520 ft (158 m) |
| North Chevy Chase | 465 | 280 ft (85 m) |
| Laytonsville | 277 | 609 ft (186 m) |
| Glen Echo | 242 | 140 ft (43 m) |