 As the town's population and popularity as a place of respite for weary travelers continued to grow, the town also became a center of commerce, known for its grist mills, the manufacture of wool hats, hosiery and, most notably between 1875 and 1930, as a center for cigar manufacturing.On November 13, 1793, George Washington, America's first president, traveled to Womelsdorf to inspect the progress being made on construction of the Union Canal.During his visit, he stayed in town at Stouch's Tavern.