Situated strategically at the mouth of the Tangier Sound, Toddville, Maryland, offers an unparalleled escape for enthusiasts of aquatic activities, wildlife viewing, and nature-based exploration. This tranquil community serves as a natural gateway to the expansive Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a protected expanse of marshland dedicated to the preservation of waterfowl and the diverse ecosystems it supports. A notable and intriguing highlight within the region is the historical enigma of Holland Island, a landmass that has gradually succumbed to the bay's embrace, leaving behind only echoes of its past.
Toddville's prime location along the Chesapeake Bay nurtures a vibrant ecosystem, making it a sanctuary for numerous wildlife and plant species. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a living tapestry of biodiversity, hosting over 250 animal species, with a significant population of waterfowl. Established in 1933 as a critical refuge for migratory geese, the park has evolved into a premier destination for birdwatching, particularly during the fall migration when up to 50,000 geese and ducks can be observed. Beyond avian wonders, the refuge is also home to river otters, the distinctive Delmarva fox squirrels, deer, and majestic bald eagles, with seasonal viewing opportunities enhancing the visitor experience.
Among the area's most compelling and poignant attractions is Holland Island, famed for its last enduring structure, a solitary house that remarkably stood until 2010. This once thriving island community gradually succumbed to the relentless forces of coastal erosion, officially vanishing by 2012. Although physical remnants of its many homes are no longer visible above the waterline, the island's melancholic narrative continues to resonate with visitors who delve into its history. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway offers another profound experience, preserving the historical landscape where the iconic freedom champion, Harriet Tubman, risked her life to liberate over 70 individuals as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.