HANCOCK - Since Sinclair Hamilton first came to Hancock in 1994, this small mountain town in western Washington County has suffered the loss of four major industries - Rayloc, Fleetwood, Londontown and several historic fruit orchards.
"Now our growth industry is tourism," Hamilton said with strong resolve.
And in furtherance of that goal, Hamilton is on the cusp of opening Riverrun Bed and Breakfast and the Riverrun Arts Center at 7 Taney St. South.
"Hancock has been crying out for something like this," Hamilton said. "It will be great for people coming here from the city."
Vacant for about 25 years, the house sits along the Potomac River and the C&O Canal Historical Park in the heart of Hancock. Built in 1878, it has been a whiskey warehouse, a greenhouse and a single-family dwelling.