​Historic Site on Ocean Highway Nominated by Pocomoke Indian Nation 

​PRINCESS ANNE, MD (November 17, 2023) – Members of the Pocomoke Indian Nation hosted a celebration today for the formal unveiling of a new roadside historical marker for the Manonoakin Indian Town Site on the grounds of the Somerset County Visitor Center and Rest Area in Princess Anne. 

The marker commemorates the village of the Manonoakin, a subtribe of the Pocomoke Nation that was located two miles southwest of Indian Neck. The town is a culturally significant historic site in Maryland. As early as 1620 at the fork of Manokin River and Trading Branch, in an area called Trading Point, the Manonoakin people traded goods with colonists.

“As a majestic tree stands upon healthy roots and firm soil, so should history be a reflection of earlier cultures based on documented sources,” said Pocomoke Indian Nation Paramount Chief Norris Howard Sr. 

The Pocomoke Indian Nation nominated the site to Maryland’s Roadside Historical Marker program, which educates the public on Maryland history. The Maryland Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Maryland Historical Trust, manages the program. 

Governor Wes Moore has designated November as American Indian Heritage Month. Maryland Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary for Transportation Equity and Engagement Tony Bridges attended Friday’s ceremony and thanked members of the Pocomoke Nation for their continued partnership.

“I’m honored to join the celebration for this new marker for the Manonoakin Town Site,” Assistant Secretary Bridges said. “Maryland’s roadside historical marker program has been informing travelers about our shared history in Maryland for 90 years, and the Manonoakin story is an important element of that history.”

Those attending the ceremony included MDOT Chief of Cultural Resources Dr. Julie Schablitsky (far right)

Representatives from the Maryland State Archives, the Cultural Resources Division of the Maryland Department of Transportation, the Maryland State Highway Administration, and other Somerset County officials also joined the unveiling.

“Having grown up in the historic town of Princess Anne, I’m incredibly proud that State Highway Administration is taking part in this commemoration,” said State Highway Administrator William Pines. “This historical marker being unveiled today will serve as a reminder of the rich heritage of the Manonoakin Tribe and their valuable contributions to Maryland history for generations to come.”

The new roadside marker is part of the effort of the Maryland Department of Transportation and the Maryland Historical Trust to increase the number of markers that highlight the state’s untold stories.​ 

Click here for more information on the Maryland Roadside Historical Marker program, including how to nominate a marker. Click here​ to search current markers.