Most people know Finksburg as a pass-through on their trek between Baltimore and Westminster.
But what many travelers don't know is that just beyond the unofficial town center, found at the intersection of Routes 140 and 91, are numerous neighborhoods nestled among rolling hills, forests and stream valleys.
"It's a growing community that's still trying to maintain its rural character," said Dave O'Callaghan, president of the Finksburg Planning and Citizens' Council. "It's a great place to raise a family with lots to do."
The area is named after Adam Fink, who operated a tavern and toll road in the early 1800s for travelers, said Timmi Pierce, executive director of the Historical Society of Carroll County.
Today it serves as a gateway to Carroll County from Baltimore County, with the Patapsco River and Liberty Reservoir separating the two.
The rural character of the area is in part due to its dependence on wells and septic tanks, something that requires larger building lots and discourages most commercial uses except along the Route 140 corridor. Part of Finksburg is tucked along the northern edges of the reservoir, giving it a woodsy, secluded feel.
O'Callaghan, who has lived in Finksburg for 20 years, said his neighborhood is one that benefits from the scenic open space.
"I live in a fantastic place," he says. "I sit there and I border the Liberty watershed with fantastic views and lovely neighbors."
Finksburg residents are eagerly awaiting the opening of their new library. Construction on the 15,000-square-foot facility began last August with a planned opening date of late 2008.