Cell Tower Visible from Antietam Battlefield Sparks Zoning Protests

Table of Contents

Washington County, Maryland is experiencing a growing concern over a potential decision by zoning officials to approve the placement of a cell tower that would be visible from the Antietam National Battlefield. This issue has sparked strong opposition from local residents in nearby Sharpsburg, who are actively engaging with Washington County authorities to voice their concerns.

The Antietam National Battlefield is considered a sacred historical site by its opponents, and they argue that the proposed cell tower would detract from the significance of this area. A Florida-based contractor is seeking zoning approval to enhance cellular service and emergency communication in the region. However, the location of the tower, although not on the battlefield grounds, would make it visible from the land managed by the National Park Service.

Tom Clemens, president of the Save Historic Antietam Foundation, expressed his concerns about the potential impact of the tower on the historic site. “We don’t need to be looking at cell towers and thinking of commercial activity when on this sacred site,” he said. “It’s an intrusion if you can see it from here.”

Dennis Frye, also from the foundation, emphasized the broader implications of the zoning board's decision. “This isn’t just about local residents,” he stated. “It’s for the hundreds of thousands of tourists who come here every year.” He added, “We have an 8,000-acre preserve where history still lives, and cell towers just don’t belong.”

Frye further highlighted the embarrassment that the county leaders might face if they allow such an intrusion on the most historic ground in the area. “They’re going to hear from us,” he said. “Don’t put it here. We don’t want it here.”

The county Board of Zoning Appeals is scheduled to review the zoning request next week. The outcome of this decision could have significant consequences for both the local community and the broader public who visit the Antietam National Battlefield.

The debate over the cell tower has brought attention to the importance of preserving historical sites and the potential conflicts between modern infrastructure and cultural heritage. Advocates for the preservation of the battlefield argue that any development that alters the visual landscape of the site should be carefully evaluated.

Opponents of the tower believe that the presence of a cell tower would diminish the historical integrity of the area and affect the experience of visitors. They stress that the battlefield is not just a place of historical significance but also a symbol of national heritage that should be protected.

As the discussion continues, the community remains united in its efforts to ensure that the Antietam National Battlefield remains a place of reverence and remembrance. The upcoming meeting of the zoning board will be a critical moment in determining the future of the proposed cell tower and its impact on this cherished historical site.