Senator Shelley Moore Capito recently visited Harpers Ferry to witness firsthand how small businesses are seizing tourism opportunities.
As seen in the fall 2016 issue
In the tip of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet, the picturesque little town of Harpers Ferry hugs the steep hills and ravines at the water’s edge. The village’s street and sidewalks are a tangle of ups, downs, and tilts. Heralded not only as the most historically significant town in West Virginia but also one of national importance, it played critical roles in the construction of the U.S. railroad system and in early-integrated schools. It is best known as the place where abolitionist John Brown led his infamous raid on the federal armory, an event that was a catalyst for the Civil War. Three key battles of the Civil War were fought in Harpers Ferry leading up to the bloody Battle of Antietam in nearby Sharpsburg, Maryland.
The area’s historical significance is so great that almost the entire town of Harpers Ferry is designated a historic district. The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park was established in 1944 and is administered by the National Park Service, which works to preserve the city’s antebellum feel. Amazingly, a third of the original town is still intact, providing a rare and authentic stage for reenactors.
“Harpers Ferry is where natural beauty, history, and culture converge, and it is the gateway to West Virginia. Whether you come for the sightseeing, the history, or the recreational fun, there is no shortage of things to do,” Senator Shelley Moore Capito says.
You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy Harpers Ferry. Outdoor enthusiasts take pleasure in its breathtaking scenery and the many ways to access it. The nearby C&O Canal towpath once trodden by mule teams is a smooth, level trail, perfect for hiking or biking. Hikers can also follow part of the 2,200-mile-long Appalachian Trail through Harpers Ferry. A long climb up rough stone steps from the center of town will take you to Jefferson Rock, where the panorama will rob you of any breath you have left. This is the view that Thomas Jefferson said was worth a trip across the Atlantic.
Tourism is a major driver of West Virginia’s economy. Our state’s natural beauty and rich history brin in millions of visitors each ear and contribute billions of dollars to our state’s economy, supporting our local towns, jobs, and small businesses.
Senator Shelley Moore Capito
Capito says, “In a testament to its character, the historic town rebuilt quickly following a devastating fire that destroyed eight businesses in 2015. Each year 300,000 people visit Harpers Ferry from every continent and visitation is up seven percent this year.”
Capito’s Favorite Nearby Attractions
ORR’S FARM MARKET, MARTINSBURG
Happiness does indeed grow at this family-owned and -operated farm. Looking for a pick your own pumpkin patch? This is the place. Stop by and pick your own fruits, veggies, or flowers, or shop the darling market for fresh produce, baked goods, jams, dairy, meat, and candy. In addition to Orr’s, the area has several farms to visit: Butler’s Farm Market, Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch, and Bobby Tabb’s Town and Country Nursery, to name a few.
WALKABLE TOWNS
“Harpers Ferry isn’t the only walkable town in Jefferson County—Charles Town and Shepherdstown are also great destinations. The Contemporary American Theater Festival in Shepherdstown draws thousands of theatergoers every July.”
SHEPHERDSTOWN MYSTERIES WALK
“Ghost tours, like Shepherdstown Mysteries Walk, offer a spooky tour of the oldest town in West Virginia.”
BLoomery Plantation Distillery
“Bloomery Distillery in Charles Town is filled with local flavor and a true testament to West Virginians’ entrepreneurial spirit. Stop by for a tasting and tour.”
PLAY IN THE POTOMAC
“Tubing down the Potomac or Shenandoah river is a great way to make a splash.”
Shepherd University
“Take a walking tour of Shepherd University in Shepherdstown or participate in the university’s upcoming Freedom Run on October 1.”
For the Young at Heart
The Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum and Joy Line Miniature Railroad, located off Route 340 at Bakerton Road, is a delight for children and adults alike. Climb aboard the Joy Line and peruse the founder Robert E. Wallich, Sr.’s extensive collection of train paraphernalia. goo.gl/n24Nv7
Make History ➸ Dig It
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Take a self-guided tour—the displays in the restored buildings are superb—or check nps.gov/hafe for special events, tours, and historic trades workshops.
John Brown’s Fort was erected in 1848 as the armory’s fire engine and guard house. It was here that John Brown and several of his followers barricaded themselves inside during the final hours of their 1859 raid.
The historically black Storer College is where abolitionist Frederick Douglass delivered his famous 1881 speech on abolitionist John Brown. It also hosted the second conference of the Niagara Movement, an effort to end racial discrimination, in August 1906.
What better way to celebrate the National Park Service’s 100th birthday than to visit Harpers Ferry. Whether you are interested in visiting a museum or hiking the park’s trails, there is something for everyone.
Senator Shelley Moore Capito
SHOPPING
The Vintage Lady
The Vintage Lady is a mainstay and required stop in Harpers Ferry. A year ago, a fire ravaged a portion of the upper part of the town, destroying the store. But the owners worked hard to rebuild and now it’s better than ever. Owner Cindi Dunn, a talented jewelry artist, thoughtfully selects jewelry, trendy clothing, accessories, home goods, and collectibles. “I commend Cindi and Billy Dunn for reopening the Vintage Lady soon after the fire. Small businesses like the Vintage Lady are critical to our state’s tourism economy,” Capito says. “This shop is not only a staple of the Harpers Ferry community, it is known around the country, with visitors coming from all 50 states.” thevintagelady.net
GRAB SOME GRUB
Country Cafe
Capito says, “The Country Café is a must stop for lunch in Harpers Ferry. It’s owned and operated by a local family. You can’t go wrong with the chicken salad or one of their West Virginia Hot Dogs.” country-cafe.com
Scoops Ice Cream
No stop at Harpers Ferry is complete without a scoop from Scoops, a local favorite just across the street from the train station. You’ll find a wide variety of homemade ice cream, frozen treats, freshly baked cookies, hot dogs, coffee, and drinks. goo.gl/jcYbqo
PLACES TO SNOOZE
Stonehouse B&B
Owner Chris Porter promises you’ll not find a doily in this B&B, but you might find a vintage motorcycle in the entry. The interior is a bit history-meets-rustic-industrial-retreat, and the breakfast is amazing. The rumble of the nearby trains will remind you of the town’s important rail history. hfstonehouse.com, hfstonehouse@gmail.com
Laurel Lodge
Built in 1915 overlooking the Potomac River, this beautifully restored inn, once known as “The Curio House,” is a charming Mission-style bed and breakfast. Evidence of original homeowner Eugene Shugart’s quirky personality is evident at every turn. A seashell pressed into the stonework reads “Don’t Worry,” and above the door between two small china saucers, also pressed into the side of the house, two tiny baby doll faces peek out at you. laurellodge.com, innkeeper@laurellodge.com56
Great OUTDOOR adventureS
Hike The Appalachian Trail
Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is more than 2,000 miles long and has inspired numerous hikers worldwide to attempt its full length in one season. Of course, you can also take the easier route and hike it in sections. We lucky West Virginians claim the Appalachian Trail’s “psychological halfway point” in Harpers Ferry—both the National Park Service Appalachian Trail office and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy call the town home. Before venturing out, visit the trail visitors’ center to learn more about the history and culture of the Appalachian Trail. From the visitors’ center you can follow the trail for a day hike and return to Harpers Ferry by dinnertime. “Our state is wild and wonderful, and Harpers Ferry is home to excellent hiking and biking trails for the outdoor lover,” says Capito. “I enjoyed hiking the Appalachian Trail, which has four miles in West Virginia. The trail has had a 49 percent increase in visitors this year, with travelers seeking more outdoor adventures.” appalachiantrail.org
Bike the C&O
“The C&O Canal and other nearby bike trails highlight West Virginia’s scenic beauty,” says Capito. Harpers Ferry is an ideal location to access the C&O towpath for a biking excursion. You’ll access the canal from a footbridge and need to carry your bike down a spiral staircase, but once you’re riding, many believe the 10-mile section near Harpers Ferry is the best on the entire path.
River Riders
With two rivers converging upon it, there is no shortage of water-based recreation in Harpers Ferry. Local outfitter River Riders supplies gear for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and stand-up paddleboarding and organizes float trips and whitewater rafting excursions. You can also challenge yourself in its aerial adventure park. riverriders.com
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