Trappe began as a small crossroads hamlet, probably in the period between 1750 and 1760. It wasn't until 1856 that Maryland's General Assembly completed action on a new bill incorporating the Town of Trappe. The history of Trappe is documented in the book Trappe The Story of an Old-Fashioned Town, by Dickson Preston.

The book is available for purchase at the Trappe town office for $5.00 plus tax.