Maryland Municipal League Geotrail - Delmar Traditional Geocache

You will find the cache in a small park behind the Delmar VFW. You are seeking a camo painted Lock and Lock container. Although “No Trespassing” signs are posted at the property, the cache is placed with the permission and authority of the Post Commander. Please note that the cache is only available during daylight hours.

Delmar's history begins in 1859, when the Delaware Railroad was extended to the southern boundary of Maryland/Delaware border. Elijah Freeney and Winder Hastings, large estate owners, granted right-of-way to the railroad and donated land for a terminal. Mr. Freeney laid out the small town and built the first house and the first store. Many towns owe their existence to a railroad, and the two contiguous towns of Delmar, Maryland, and Delmar, Delaware, are among them. At the end of the rail line, in both states, merchants took advantage of economic opportunity, and railroad workers established residences. Thus, two towns originated and prospered as one. Before the end of the century, both had been chartered as incorporated municipalities in their respective states: Delmar, Maryland, in 1888, and Delmar, Delaware, in 1899. Many railroad employees settled here on both sides of the state line. In the late 1880's, many homes and businesses were established, thus leading to Delmar, Maryland becoming incorporated in 1888.

A fire in the Town in 1892, and again in 1901, devastated the area. Following the second fire, many buildings were rebuilt of brick and plans were begun for a water distribution system. Like other communities, each town elects its own mayor and council, passes its own ordinances, and raises its own revenue. But beyond those activities, arrangements are unique. According to a formula based largely on population, the two revenue streams are applied to a single municipal operation with a single town manager. The wastewater treatment plant, the police station, and the town hall are located in Delmar, Maryland, while the water treatment plant, the library, and the volunteer fire department are located in Delmar, Delaware. There are parks and recreational facilities in both towns. Elementary school students are all taught in Delmar, Maryland. Middle and high school students who live in Maryland may choose to attend school in Delmar, Delaware, or in nearby Salisbury, Maryland.

This unusual brand of municipal government is not without its challenges. For example, police officers must have certification and knowledge of the law in both states, although most local regulations are compatible to avoid confusion among residents. Overall, the benefits of Delmar’s unique municipal arrangement outweigh the disadvantages—more efficient operations are achieved and opportunities for state grants are broadened.

You will find the cache in a small park behind the Delmar VFW. You are seeking a camo painted Lock and Lock container. Although “No Trespassing” signs are posted at the property, the cache is placed with the permission and authority of the Post Commander. Please note that the cache is only available during daylight hours. The property owner/manager where the cache is placed accepts no responsibility or liability for persons seeking the cache on their property. Enjoy the peaceful area while you hunt.