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Tome Visitor Center
Historic Tome Gas House
The Historic Tome Gas House, built circa 1850 from Port Deposit granite, originally supplied power to the Jacob Tome mansion. Lovingly restored, it now serves as the Tome Visitor Center and Towson University Research and Education Center for the Northern Map Turtle, celebrating both the area’s rich heritage and its vibrant natural environment.
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The Tome Visitor Center is open annually from June through August. Hours vary and are posted here when available.
A Partnership for Conservation and Education
In 2008, students from the Towson University Biology Department began studying the endangered Northern Map Turtle population along the Susquehanna River in Port Deposit. Their work inspired a unique partnership between the Town of Port Deposit and Towson University in 2013, dedicated to protecting the species and promoting ecotourism.
In 2014, the Town Council adopted Resolution 05-2014, officially naming the Northern Map Turtle as the Town Mascot. Affectionately known as “Rhonda,” the mascot honors a resilient turtle that has returned year after year—bravely crossing roads and parking lots to nest within the town limits. Rhonda embodies Port Deposit’s spirit of perseverance, community, and respect for nature.
Our Town Mascot, Ronda!
