Opened on this site in 1877 by the Tolchester Steamboat Company, Tolchester Beach Amusement Park arose in an era when the steamboat was a primary mode of social and commercial transportation in the Tidewater region and in response to the rising popularity of resorts and amusement parks. Steamers ran daily between Baltimore and the park, which grew to over 150 acres and included a hotel, pavilion, bathing beach, and a variety of rides and attractions. The park closed in 1962.