The C&O Canal—one of our favorite spots in Montgomery County to hike, bike, boat and camp—is celebrating a major milestone this year: the 50th anniversary of becoming a National Historical Park. And since every big occasion needs a commemorative t-shirt, C&O Canal Trust has partnered with the Maryland-based company Route One Apparel to create one.
“We are thrilled to be releasing an apparel line featuring the C&O Canal,” said C&O Canal Trust President Robin Zanotti in a press statement. “This is something we have wanted to do for several years, and our partnership with Route One Apparel enables us to tap into their knowledge of the market to produce fun, durable garments our supporters will enjoy wearing as they explore the C&O Canal. The sales will also benefit the preservation and protection of this important natural resource, making this a win-win.”
The initial collection features two t-shirts, indigo blue and orange, with a design of the canal’s towpath. As of now, they’re available in adult sizes only, but children’s sizes and additional designs may be released this summer. Each shirt costs $24.99, with a portion the sales going to support the Trust’s work of preserving and protecting the canal.
The canal, which was completed in 1850, has become a hub for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts all over the region. Each year, approximately 5 million visitors enjoy its scenic hiking trails, historical sites, boat rides, camp sites and other activities.
“At Route One Apparel, we are all about loving where you are from, and that certainly includes the many beautiful parks and natural resources our state has to offer,” said Ali von Paris, Route One Apparel founder and CEO, in a press statement. “Our team has really enjoyed collaborating with C&O Canal Trust on a design that we know our customers and anyone who loves the park will be excited to wear.”
