Deal Island, MD

Deal Island is a small, unincorporated community located in Calvert County, Maryland. The population was 1,851 at the 2010 census. Deal Island is best known as the location of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, which is home to the United States Navy's Atlantic Fleet.

The first Europeans to visit Deal Island were members of Christopher Columbus' crew in 1493. The island was named for Edward Deale, one of Columbus' backers. The first permanent settler on Deal Island was James Hickey, who built a cabin there in 1772. In 1801, the island became part of the newly formed Washington County.

In 1812, during the War of 1812, British forces landed on Deal Island and burned down several homes and stores. In retaliation for this attack, American forces burned down a British fort on Stony Point near Annapolis.

In 1854, Congress created Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWC CD) on what was then known as " Deale's Island". The original purpose of NSWC CD was to develop and test new naval weapons systems; however over time it has evolved into a much larger facility with many other functions including training naval personnel and managing naval installations around the world.

Today most residents of Deal Island are employed by NSWC CD or by one of its numerous contractors; however there are also a few small businesses that cater to visitors from nearby Annapolis and Baltimore. There is no public transportation available on or off-island; visitors must rely on cars or boats to get around.

The only real shopping opportunity available to residents of Deal Island is at one of two local convenience stores; however there are no restaurants or other types of businesses that cater specifically to islanders.

The primary source of entertainment for residents is either going out fishing or boating; both activities can be enjoyed either from shore or from one of several private boat docks located throughout the island community