The Drane House Garrett County’s Past. I took a ride on an unusually warm winter day just a few miles outside of Deep Creek Lake to the historical Drane House in sleepy Accident, Maryland. Garrett County’s past is vast and the Drane House plays an important role being the oldest building standing.
The home was actually built in 1797 by William Lamar who was the brother in law of James Drane. He surrendered title to Drane for the surrounding land and cabin in 1803. Both gentleman tried unsuccessfully to grow tobacco for a few years before giving up and growing crops that best suited Garrett Counties cooler season.
The last tenant vacated the property in 1952 which set a record for the longest continuous occupancy of any house in Garrett County. The house was restored by 100+ Drane decedents from 1991 to 1994. Before restoration could start they were required to do an archaeological site survey which uncovered a 1780 Spanish coin was found bearing the inscription “Curolus III”. The coin recalled a common practice along the American Frontier of the late 1700s and early 1800s: that of using British or Spanish coins as a medium of exchange in place of the inflated paper money issued by the new United States government.
The Drane House is located near the Zion Lutheran Church of the Eastern edge of Accident. Turn at the church and go down Cemetery Road and go to the end and make a right at the cemetery. You will see this beautiful historical house nestled in rolling farms hills of Accident. It is closed most of the year for entry but I would recommend visiting in the Spring, Summer or Fall with your family with a large blanket and a big picnic basket. Slow down your mind and inhale the peaceful scenery that Garrett County is famous for.
