There was no way to construct the C&O Canal past this point without swinging it out into an ancient Potomac River channel. But it was a devil's bargain. To this day, whenever the River is at flood stage, it rises up seeking out this channel and attempts to sweep away this impressive retaining wall. It is known as "Mary's Wall" for reasons lost to history.
Milepost 13.9
Photo Credit: C&O Canal Trust