COCKEYSVILLE

Learn More About Cockeysville, Maryland

History/General Information

“Cockeysville was named after the Cockey family who helped establish the town. Thomas Cockey (1676–1737) settled in Limestone Valley in 1725 at Taylor’s Hall. Joshua Frederick Cockey (1765–1821) built one of the first homes in the area in 1798 and built the first commercial structure, a hotel, in 1810 in what would become the village of Cockeysville. His son, Judge Joshua F. Cockey (1800–1891), was a lifelong resident in the village and built the train station (what would be part of the Pennsylvania Railroad) and accompanying commercial buildings in the 1830s.

Cockeysville was the scene of some Civil War activity. Confederate soldiers pushed into the Baltimore area, intending to cut off the city and Washington from the north. On July 10, 1864, Confederate cavalry under General Bradley T. Johnson entered Cockeysville, destroying telegraph lines and track along the Northern Central Railway. They also burned the first bridge over the Gunpowder Falls, just beyond nearby Ashland.

After the war, Joshua F. Cockey III (1837–1920) founded the National Bank of Cockeysville (1891) and other commercial ventures in the community, as well as developing dwellings along the York Turnpike (now York Road) that made up the village of Cockeysville.”

School System

Cockeysville is the home of a handful of schools, including Padonia International Elementary, Warren Elementary School, Cockeysville Middle School, and St. Joseph School.

Area Attractions 

Found yourself in the area with some time to spare? Oregon Ridge Park, which stretches through a few Baltimore County locations, is always a safe bet for beautiful scenery, educational opportunities, and recreational hot spots. It’s also home to the Oregon Ridge Dinner Theater, which is both self-explanatory and a lot of fun.

Nearby is the Ultimate Playzone, which offers kids and parents alike an indoor facility to burn some energy and have a great time together. Afterward, if you’re hungry, stop by Andy Nelson’s for some of the best BBQ you’ve ever tasted. The Corner Stable is another delicious option which boasts some of the best seafood around. Finally, Ashland Cafe is both a big brunch locale and a cocktail bar, so you can stop by day or night for what’s sure to be a great dining (or drinking) experience.