Ice Skating at Bowie's Foxhill Lake in 1969

Foxhill Lake, January 24, 2013

January 26, 1969 (44 years ago today): The Washington Post published "Take Note: Washington's Winter Fun," an article about sledding, skating and other winter activities in the D.C. area.  The "Skating in Maryland" section included the following:  "A warming house with do-it-yourself wood burners and ample log supply adds a special touch at Foxhill Lake in Foxhill Park, off Route 197 in Bel Air between Route 450 and the John Hanson Highway."

According to a spokesperson at that time, Maryland National Capital Park and Planning posted "No Skating" signs at Foxhill Lake and other area ponds until the ice was at least five inches thick, which allowed for four or five good skating days each winter.

Times have changed.  No longer would the Washington Post refer to the area as "Bel Air," and "No Skating" signs are posted year round at FoxHill Lake.  It's also rare for Foxhill Lake to freeze over for very long (this week being an exception).

This photo was taken two days ago after an overnight snow blanketed the lake.