The Cumberland Road was important during the 19th century because it was the first time a road went to many towns and cities.
The Cumberland Road was the first improved federal highway in the United States. The road was built between 1811 and 1837 by the federal government for people to reach the western settlements. The 1,000 km road is connected to many towns and cities. It extends from Cumberland Md to Vandalia, Potomac and Ohio Rivers.