Olney Real Estate and Homes For Sale - History & Area Description


	Olney Houses for Sale

Olney

The area that is now Olney is located on land granted by King George III in 1720. Farming was the primary occupation of the villagers, thanks to the high quality of the local soil. Brookeville was founded in 1794. The community became famous when President James Madison sought refuge here following the British invasion and burning of Washington during the War of 1812. This incident provided Brookeville with its nickname -- "Capital for a Day" - and today the town is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District. Nearby Laytonsville was once known as Cracklintown, named after "cracklin'" bread (a bacon corn bread baked in the area). All three communities were supported by agriculture until modern transportation and residential development turned them into lively suburban areas.

Olney and its neighbors have developed into bedroom communities for job centers in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Frederick. The towns have stood at the crossroads of Maryland's economy and history for more than two centuries. Olney offers more than just a unique background, however. A developing cultural center, Olney is the home of Broadway Bound, Montgomery County's youngest non-profit youth theater, as well as the Olney Theatre Center for the Arts. Brookeville has a unique and diverse collection of period architecture, including the Caleb Bentley House (now known as the Madison House), the Blue House and the Valley House. The communities are also just minutes away from all the inspiring historical, cultural and educational attractions the District of Columbia has to offer.

Olney hosts numerous community events for the whole family to enjoy. The Olney Days heritage festival takes place each May, featuring puppet shows, fireworks, fishing tournaments, car shows and performances by the Olney Community Band. The Olney Fall Festival benefits local hospitals and charities, offering dinner and an auction as well as games and crafts for the kids. Community Concerts of Olney is an organization dedicated to bringing high quality musical entertainment to the town. CCO hosts a world-class and affordable concert series each year. Another favorite local event is the Community Night, a local business expo providing information about all the products and services available in Olney.