Germantown

About Germantown

Germantown is a large community in Maryland's Montgomery County. Although it's not an officially incorporated city, it's one of the most populated places in the state, and has been growing rapidly in recent decades. This bustling town has a range of amenities to offer, including arts and culture, parks and recreation, comfortable residential communities and a strong economy.

The History of Germantown

Historians believe that Native Americans lived in the Germantown area for hundreds of years before European settlers arrived in the late 17th century. At that time, most settlers arrived via a Native American trail that connected Germantown and Georgetown.

During the Civil War, neighbors fought against neighbors thanks to the divisive nature of the battles taking place nearby, and the economy took a hit as a result. However, the soldiers who came to Germantown to find food and lodging helped keep the town afloat. After the war, the first school came to Germantown. A one-room schoolhouse was followed by a three-room schoolhouse as the town grew in size and population.

The arrival of Interstate 270 boosted the population again around the middle of the 20th century. In 1974, the town completed its sewer line and home building increased exponentially. New shopping centers and office buildings went up, and new schools were built to educate the town's youth. Some of the older buildings still stand in Germantown, but many were destroyed in the latter years of the 20th century by fire or decay.

Living in Germantown

You'll find plenty of reasons to love Germantown, whether you like to shop, dine or enjoy the great outdoors. There are several public green spaces in the area, including the Black Hill Regional Park, which offers hiking, fishing, boating and picnicking. The large park is somewhere you can easily spend an entire day, but is convenient enough for a quick visit as well.

Downtown Germantown is home to the BlackRock Center for the Arts, which features a large theater, a music room, art classes and a dance studio. Throughout the year, you can attend a variety of family-friendly music, dance and theatrical performances. Adults and children alike can enroll in the center's art, music, dance and theater classes and day camps. The BlackRock Center also manages the Germantown Oktoberfest, a popular local event that includes many musical performances.

The Maryland SoccerPlex is another popular spot in Germantown, is a large facility that has a soccer stadium, sports courts, a splash park, miniature golf, BMX courses, an archery course and more. The entertainment complex has plenty of offer for all ages.

Germantown Schools

The Montgomery County Public Schools system is responsible for the public schools in Germantown. The Longview School is a special education campus operated by the district.

Montgomery College has its largest campus in Germantown, providing a convenient place to pursue your degree.

Resources for Moving to Germantown

As you plan your move to Germantown, the following resources may be helpful:

• Utilities: Like all of Maryland, Germantown allows its residents to choose their own electric company from the area's major providers. The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission manages water and sewer services.
• Garbage and Recycling: You can expect regular collection of trash, recyclables and yard waste.
• Transportation: Germantown public transportation options include the MARC commuter rail and bus routes operated by Montgomery County.

Germantown Housing

You'll find homes of all types in Germantown, from single-family residences to apartment complexes and condominium communities. The median home price in Germantown is significantly higher than the national average, but that's not surprising for an East Coast community of this size. Because the housing market provides so many options, you should be able to find something to suit your needs.