The Farquhars from Pennsylvania settled Union Bridge (originally called Buttersburg) as a farming community before the Revolutionary War. The town still maintains the quiet, slow-paced charm that characterized its beginning and that nurtures ingenuity and creativity among its townspeople. As early as 1811, Jacob R. Thomas designed and assembled the world’s first reaping machine. Invention of the “knuckle” railroad-car coupler grew from a need of the Western Maryland Railroad, headquartered in Union Bridge. Noted sculptor William Rinehart was born here; his works can be seen in Washington, D.C., and Rome, Italy. The works of contemporary sculptor Joe Isrealson can be seen in Historic Oella Mill in Ellicott City, at the Holt Center for the Arts in Baltimore, and at the Firehouse Studio in Union Bridge. Local poet and artist Richard Eichman was named Poet Laureate of Union Bridge in 1998.

Lehigh Portland Cement Company continues a long history as the town’s leading industry. Since early in the 20th century, a large portion of the residents of Union Bridge has been employed by Lehigh or its predecessor, Tidewater.