File:Newton (Catfish) Burkhart.pdf.jpg

Summary

Known as the "Mayor of Potomac Flats", Newton V. “Catfish” Burkhart proudly displays a string of smallmouth bass, each weighing more than three pounds. Known for his generosity, he often shared his catch with needy local families. Few were as knowledgeable as Catfish about in where the fish were jumping on any given day.

For over a decade between the time the National Park Service first tried to evict him in 1971, as they did with many owners of camps along the Potomac River in Brunswick, Catfish Burkhart battled the NPS to a standstill while refusing to leave his riverfront property. He was served with an eviction notice in October, 1983, but local reports are that he stayed until at least the flood of 1985.

Catfish passed away in 1987 at the relatively early age of 62.

David Huffer Dad worked with him on the railroad. As a kid dad would drive us down to his place and he always had a boat and some bait we could use. As a kid it always seemed to take forever to get down the tow path. He always set us up and told dad where to take me fishing.

Terry Heffner Great Memories… there was things that went on, I still shake my head and laugh at… he was a borderline outlaw… but he would do anything in the world for you, if you asked.. borderline outlaw note… at the time of this photo.. you was only allowed 5 bass limit in possession… 🥴 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Milton Gue Him and Pete Boyce owned the river.

Michele R. Payton A legend in his own right. So many memories of him and my Daddy fishing. Him driving his boat standing on the front using a boat pole attached to engine. Teaching me the best spots and fishing tips. Loved him.

Glenna Eackles I distinctly remember dad taking me to his place to go fishing. I just played with the minnows and flipped rocks for crayfish. But I do remember him and dad telling me all about the plants along the river and their edible/medicinal uses and his warm personality.

Donald Greenfield I remember NPS putting up a medal gate across the tow path to keep him from from reaching his camp. Needless to say it didn’t work.

John Kitts I remember this time well. Those were the days of building wooden boats in the backyards or at the camps and tie ups were chains around the trees along the banks. Boat anchors were used brake shoes from the railroad coal cars and freight cars. If people weren’t lucky enough to have an outboard engine, usually a 10-12 foot pole would suffice. These were the days when you could still eat the fish from the Potomac without fear of cancerous chemicals.

Thomas George A legend on the river, the rails and around town.

Glenn Hanes I was at his campsite after I graduated in '85. So I know he was there then.

Chris Weitzel Growing up with characters around with names like Catfish or Juice, etc., feels like we came right out of Faulkner.

(Photo from a Brunswick Citizen article courtesy of the City of Brunswick Maryland History Commission)