HIGHLAND, MARYLAND

'Highland' is an unincorporated community in western Howard County, Maryland that carries the zip code of 20777. Highland is located at the junction of Highland Road, Maryland Route 216 and Maryland Route 108. Highland is still heavily influenced by its agrarian history; farms and horse fields are common in the area. The crossroads itself has a small-town feel, with a few shops that share in the rich history. Boarman's Meat Market is an anchor institution, having been in business for many years.
Highland is the last rural crossroads in Maryland, and, as such, many community members have taken it upon themselves to maintain the historical sites and feel of the hamlet by founding the Greater Highland Crossroads Association (GHCA). The boundaries of the town are marked by four signs.
There are four corners at this crossroad.
South corner: Kitty Bed and Breakfast.
West corner: Boarman's Meat Market.
North corner: land that is in the process of being developed, and is expected to be several shops, offices, and one restaurant.
East corner: Butterfield's Antique Store.
A recent development is that of the Paternal Gift Farm, MD neighborhood. This horse community is so called because the owners inherited the land from their father. They designed the large property meticulously, so that the houses are grouped in bunches, leaving room for horse pastures. The property takes up practically all of the land in the triangle made between Maryland Route 216 (Highland road), Maryland route 108, and Hall Shop Road.
For the past three years, the GHCA has held the annual "Highland Day". The holiday is similar to a fair, and patrons are encouraged to meander around the town, visit shops, and discover the rich history of the community. Many attractions are offered, such as the popular History Scavenger Hunt, live performances from local musicians, and business kiosks.
The town may, at first, seem hackneyed, but in actuality played several important roles in our nation's history. The town housed meetings that affected the events of the Boston Tea Party. Well's Tavern (now the Kitty Bed and Breakfast) was the primary meeting place of a group of Northern sympathizers in the Civil War.