Bel Air's roots date back to the late 18th century.  Aquilla Scott inherited land and named a portion of that land "Scott's Old Fields".  Development quickly began and four years later, merchants, innkeepers and politicians purchased lots from Scott.  Not long after these transactions, the county commissioners changed decided to change the town's name to "Belle Aire."  Years later, the name was shortened to the current spelling "Bel Air". 

Soon after the town began it's expansion, Bel Air became Harford's county seat and Daniel Scott (the son of Aquilla Scott) broke ground to build the courthouse on Main Street.  Following the Civil War, additional building and land-development occurred.  A horse track was even built in the 1950s, which was located where the Harford Mall is today.  There were some brief set backs during the 20th century when several fires wreaked havoc on Main Street.  The worst being the fire in 1972 which caused more than $2 million in damages. 

Bel Air continues to be a highly developing and prosperous area. More housing developments are emerging and jobs are plentiful.  The biggest employers being  Aberdeen Proving Ground and Upper Chesapeake Medical Center.  The schools in Bel Air are some of the best in the county. Shopping, dining and recreational activities draw homeseekers and visitors to the area.  The Festival of Bel Air, as well as the newly expanded Harford Mall,are great options for the shopping enthusiast.  Another popular area is "Old Bel Air" consisting of the historically significant Main Street.  Main Street features numerous unique shop and delicious dining options, all keeping with it's old world charm.  If these small town qualities are important to you in your home buying decision, explore Bel Air--it surely will not disappoint you!

Reference: wikipedia.com