As of the 2010 census, the population of Havre de Grace is 10,968 people. The median age is 39.5 years. The median household income is $64,798. This city has a diverse population, and is home to a high percentage of foreign-born residents. As of 2012, 19.7% of the population was Hispanic or Latino, and 2.9% were non-Hispanic or affluent.
A public recreation area along the shores of the Susquehanna River in Havre de Grace is the Susquehanna State Park, which is part of a larger park complex. Donated by Baltimore Museum of Art president J. Gilman D’Arcy Paul, Susquehanna State Park was established in 1958. This park has a restored Jersey Toll House and an 1804 Carter-Archer Mansion.
For those looking to enjoy a little culture in their vacation, the city has a vibrant arts and entertainment district. Here, local artists and musicians can display their talents and sell their wares. The town also features restaurants and gift shops. The Havre de Grace Cultural Center and State Theater of Havre de Grace offer rotating performances of performing arts and live music. A unique and fun environment awaits visitors to Havre de Grace! The town has something for everyone.
This small historic town in Harford County is located near the mouth of the Susquehanna River, at the head of the Chesapeake Bay. The town was named after French port city Le Havre, and was incorporated in 1785. It was previously known as ‘The Graw’, and the French military officer General Lafayette frequented the area. During the Revolutionary War, the town played a vital role in the American revolution, although it did not become the capital.
If you love history, you can’t miss the Susquehanna Museum at the Lock House. Housed in the former 1840 Lock Tender’s House, the museum is open to the public from April to October. During the holiday season, additional hours may be added. Interactive exhibits teach visitors about the canal route, and a working model of the canal’s locks and bridges illustrate the various technologies in use at the time.
The history of Havre de Grace goes back thousands of years, and the town was home to many of the Susquehannock Indians. Captain John Smith’s 1608 exploration of the area also brought him into contact with natives, including the Susquehannock tribe. The first ferry across the Susquehanna River was launched in 1695. In 1785, the town was incorporated as a city, and is therefore the second oldest municipality in the state of Maryland.
The Maritime Museum is another interesting attraction in Havre de Grace. This nonprofit educational institution showcases the history and maritime heritage of the Susquehanna River region. Founded in 1988, the museum features nearly two dozen permanent exhibits. The signature exhibit tells the story of Captain John Smith’s 1608 visit to the region. Other exhibits cover Chesapeake Bay fishing history, native waterfowl populations, and local United States Coast Guard operations. A ground floor boat shop is also home to replicas of historic boats.