Visitor Center & Town Ambassadors
Tome Visitor Center
The Historic Tome Gas House, built circa 1850 from Port Deposit granite, originally supplied power to the Jacob Tome mansion. Lovingly restored in 2017, it now serves as the Tome Visitor Center and Towson University Research and Education Center for the Northern Map Turtle. The Visitor Center celebrates Port Deposit's rich heritage and its connection to the Susquehanna River.
Visitor Information
Location: 1200 Rowland Drive, Port Deposit, MD 21904
Hours: Open annually from June through August. Hours vary and are posted here when available.
Admission: Free
Parking: Located at Marina Park, 159 S. Main Street, Port Deposit, MD 21904 - Short walk down the promenade.
A Partnership for Conservation and Education
Since 2013, Towson University students and faculty have partnered with the Town of Port Deposit to conduct long-term research and monitoring of the Northern Map Turtle population along the Susquehanna River. The Tome Visitor Center supports conservation, education, and community engagement, helping residents and visitors learn more about the species that call this region home.
Please visit the Tome Visitor Center's official Facebook page at: Facebook.com/TomeVisitorCenter
Town Ambassadors
The Town of Port Deposit is proud to recognize three native species as our Town Ambassadors. These ambassadors represent our connection to the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and they reflect the civic pride we share in protecting local habitats through conservation and stewardship.
Rhonda the Northern Map Turtle (Official Reptile)
Rhonda represents the Northern Map Turtle, a freshwater turtle native to the Susquehanna River and an important part of Port Deposit’s natural heritage. In 2014, the Town Council adopted Resolution 05-2014, officially naming the Northern Map Turtle as the Town Mascot, “Rhonda.” Northern Map Turtles are known for the map-like markings on their shells and are often seen basking on rocks or logs near the water. They spend most of their lives in the river and rely on healthy freshwater habitat with clean water, rocks, logs, and abundant aquatic life. Today, the Northern Map Turtle is also recognized as Port Deposit’s Official Reptile and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting local waterways and habitat.
Rocky the Striped Bass (Rockfish) (Official Fish)
Rocky represents the Striped Bass, also known as Rockfish. This iconic Chesapeake Bay species connects Port Deposit to the larger watershed and highlights the importance of healthy waterways for fish, recreation, and local traditions. Striped Bass are recognized by their bold horizontal stripes and are well known for their strength and seasonal movements throughout the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Because they depend on clean water and healthy habitat, they are often viewed as an important indicator of overall watershed health. Rocky reflects Port Deposit’s strong connection to the Susquehanna River, the Northeast River, and the Chesapeake Bay, as well as the community pride and outdoor culture that surrounds these waterways.
Eeleanor the American Eel (Official Fish)
Eeleanor represents the American Eel, a remarkable native species that migrates between freshwater rivers and the ocean as part of its life cycle. American Eels are most active at night and often shelter along the river bottom under rocks, logs, and vegetation. They live in rivers and streams connected to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean and can travel long distances over their lifetime. The American Eel reflects the resilience of river life and the importance of protecting connected habitats that support wildlife through every stage of life. Eeleanor also highlights how conservation and stewardship efforts help maintain healthy ecosystems for species that rely on both freshwater and marine environments.
Official Designations
On January 6, 2026, Port Deposit adopted Resolution 01-2026 naming the Northern Map Turtle as the Town’s Official Reptile, and Resolution 02-2026 naming the Striped Bass (Rockfish) and American Eel as the Town’s Official Fish.
Read the Press Release (January 6, 2026) for details.
