Luke is a small town located in Allegany County, Maryland. It was founded in the late 1800s as a company town for the Luke Mill, which was established by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company. The town grew rapidly as workers flocked to the area to work in the mill, which was one of the largest employers in the region.
One notable resident of Luke is former Maryland Governor William Donald Schaefer, who was born in the town in 1921. Schaefer served as governor from 1987 to 1995 and was known for his strong leadership and dedication to improving the state's infrastructure.
The population of Luke has fluctuated over the years, peaking in the mid-20th century when the mill was at its peak. Since the mill's closure, the population has declined, but efforts are being made to revitalize the town and attract new residents.
Luke is located in the western part of Maryland, near the border with West Virginia. The town is situated along the Potomac River, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
The closure of the Luke Mill had a significant impact on the town's economy, as many residents were left without jobs. Efforts are being made to attract new businesses to the area and diversify the local economy.
Luke has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong sense of community and pride in its history. The town hosts annual events and festivals, showcasing local art, music, and food.