Ups and Downs of mountain living
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7/15/2007
For a more accurate view of Cumberland, search zipcode 21502--Cumberland is scattered over several hills and creek beds, and the zip more accurately reflects the whole than searching the city name (city limits) only.
Some locals like to say, "To get to Cumberland from Baltimore, get on Interstate 70 West and go back a hundred years." That's not quite fair, but there is some truth in it. UPS: Old, small-town feel, charming local steam railroad and C & O canal attract tourists, Friday evenings downtown in the summer with live music and lots of people to meet and watch. DOWNS: Corrupt local government, crumbling infrastructure, extreme provincialism, drive an hour for shopping (Country Club Mall is a Wal-Mart anchored joke). The health system is the area's largest employer. Great place to retire. Summers are hot and short, winters are long and raw (mostly clammy and cold, with the occasional big snowfall). Expect an Appalachian snapshot in terms of people, economy and attitudes. Public schools are marginal, but there are excellent private Catholic schools.
Abhd | Cumberland, MD