Most towns along the GAP Trail have their roots in the railroad, and Rockwood is no exception. As GAP cyclists make their way along the Casselman River into town, they are greeted with a huge metal sculpture of a train engine as a reminder of the importance of the railroad in Rockwood’s history. 

Rockwood was laid out in 1857 by Philip Wolfersberger, and in 1871 a railroad depot was built. Originally known as Mineral Point, the town’s name was changed to Rockwood largely due to the efforts of Wolfersberger’s son (also named Philip), a ticket agent for the railroad. 

Like other towns in the area, coal mining was the primary industry in Rockwood in the late 1800’s and early 1900s. Also, like Confluence, a large tannery operated here. During that time, Rockwood had many different railroads running through it and nearby to move the coal and leather products. Eventually, the B&O Railroad bought most of them. Today, the B&O (now owned by CSX) still passes through Rockwood. In fact, the daily Amtrak train runs along these tracks through Rockwood as it makes its way from Cumberland to Pittsburgh.

Because Rockwood was an important top-over point, there were several hotels, shops and restaurants in the town. The Penrose Wolf Building, also known as the Rockwood Opera House, was built in 1898 and is the most distinctive building on Main Street. The first floor contained shops and a restaurant, and the second floor boasted a large Opera House from 1904 to 1921. Dormant for nearly 80 years, Judy Pletcher bought it in 2000 and restored it, hosting many bands and live theater performances for the next 20 years. A celebrity among GAP travelers, she also ran the shops, the restaurant and the hostel down the street. Judy retired in 2021 and the building is up for sale (the hostel is still operating).

Today Rockwood has several B&Bs, a campground, a general store, a small visitor’s center and a new microbrewery! A great place to take a break or stay along the trail.

Read more in "Get Up and Ride" 

More history of the places along the GAP & C&O: History (getupride.com) 

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