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WV Living Magazine

October 17, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Explore Jefferson County, WV

Fall 2023 · Jefferson County · Sponsored Content

RICH IN HISTORY WITH A COSMOPOLITAN FLAVOR

Just an hour from Washington, D.C., Jefferson County is located in the historic Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Famous for the saga of abolitionist John Brown and the area’s strong connection to the Washington family, this picturesque section of “Almost Heaven” is one of the most popular travel spots in the entire state. Urbanites flock to these scenic mountains and quaint towns to relax, enjoy great food, and play in the outdoors.

SHEPHERDSTOWN

Shepherdstown is a foodie’s dream. Located along the Potomac River, it is the oldest town in West Virginia. But this town that claims Shepherd University is still very young at heart, with a wealth of dining options.

Want a taste of European-inspired elegance? Look no further than the Bavarian Inn Resort & Brewing Company . Situated on a bluff overlooking the Potomac, the Bavarian has been a favorite of travelers for over 45 years for its award-winning cuisine. Over the past several years, the inn has been undergoing a renaissance with the addition of the stunning Infinity 101 Pool and Bar and the brand-new Bavarian Brothers Brewery featuring a brewpub, lounge, and outdoor beer garden. More than 70 luxury rooms, many with views of the Potomac, have been recently renovated and feature gas fireplaces and the finest in creature comforts.

Downtown Shepherdstown has an array of dining options, all just a short walk apart along historic sidewalks filled with unique shops and specialty stores. At The Press Room you’ll find an extensive offering of seafood dishes like calamari, scallops, soft shell crab, and oysters on the half shell. The steaks and lamb are equally divine. If you are looking for a new spin on burritos and tacos made with the freshest ingredients, Maria’s Taqueria is the place to eat. Try the out-of-this-world Maria’s Chimi. The fish tacos are also a local favorite. 

For a variety of vegetarian options,   Blue Moon Café  is your go-to place for sandwiches, soups, and salads made from locally sourced produce.  Bistro 112   re-opened in January 2023 and has been receiving rave reviews. This neighborhood favorite offers French cuisine from locally sourced ingredients. The outside garden seating space is magical. Just down the street, the dog-friendly  Lilah Restaurant  is a local gathering spot for great food, cocktails, and live music.

HARPERS FERRY

Situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, Harpers Ferry is home to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park . This town of fewer than 100 residents is one of the most popular destinations in West Virginia. Thousands of visitors walk the historic streets and scenic trails in Harpers Ferry each year to catch a glimpse of our nation’s past.

Bordering Harpers Ferry is the town of Bolivar. Stop in the Country Cafe for good old-fashioned homemade meals and hospitality. Nothing fancy, just delicious food like your grandmother used to make. Visitors will find a range of fresh goods, including cinnamon rolls, biscuits, scones, and pepperoni rolls at Bolivar Bread Bakery , which also carries a unique pickle rye bread.

CHARLES TOWN

A little farther south, Charles Town is home to the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races , West Virginia’s oldest horse racing venue and a renowned Mountain State destination that offers a Vegas-themed gaming atmosphere with 1930s art deco flair.

In addition to racing and games, Hollywood Casino has several restaurants, including the Wine Spectator Award-winning Final Cut Steakhouse .

In the heart of downtown Charles Town since 2017, Abolitionist Ale Works specializes in creating and flavorful craft beer. Their emphasis is on unique IPA, sour ales, wild ales, saisons, strong ales, and stouts. They also feature artisan pizza and delicious sandwiches and appetizers.

For more information on creating your own Jefferson County getaway, visit WhereAlmostHeavenBegins.com

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Experience West Virginia’s Wonder in Historic Jefferson County

Rich Civil War history and contemporary culture collide in this Blue Ridge Mountain enclave, where untamed nature is still all around

From thrilling outdoor adventures to charming townscapes that are steeped in Colonial and Revolutionary history, West Virginia is an enchanting escape for visitors of all interests. And with its close proximity to more densely populated hubs along the Mid-Atlantic coastline (in fact, Washington D.C. is just 90 minutes away by car), Jefferson County serves up a taste of the bucolic American life from centuries past—all within easy reach for today’s adventurers.  

Jefferson County occupies a roughly diamond-shaped swath of land in the Shenandoah Valley, part of the Eastern Panhandle of the state. At just 212 square miles in size—a total land area that’s roughly nine-tenths the size of Chicago—the county is overflowing with natural and historical attractions. Home to quaint towns lined with first-rate restaurants and unique handcrafted shops, there’s also an abundance of outdoor pursuits here, thanks to a tangle of rivers and waterways that wind throughout the land, along with an enviable location among the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.  

Composed of Harpers Ferry and Bolivar, along with Shepherdstown and the county seat of Charles Town, the town centers of Jefferson County are all just a stone’s throw apart, making it easy to explore them all—even on a quick trip to these parts. To make the most of your next visit, check in at the Jefferson County Welcome Center . Ready to start exploring? Here are a few of the must-visit sites in stunning Jefferson County.

Harpers Ferry 

Situated at the very tip of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, it’s hard to overstate the historical significance of this charming settlement, where the past truly seems to live on. Hugging the hillside above the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, Harpers Ferry is, in equal parts, a living museum and a functioning modern town, all set amid a wild and untamed natural landscape that beckons outdoor adventurers to get out and explore. 

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park occupies 3,500 acres—a sizeable plot of protected park land to discover for yourself on foot. But the town’s designated Lower Town offers the most immersive and eye-opening place to kick off your trip, with a collection of meticulously preserved 19th-century buildings that welcome you in for hands-on exploration. Start at the Harpers Ferry Visitor Center, where a shuttle bus will bring you straight to the heart of Lower Town, the cultural center of the village.  

Among the most notable structures to visit, you’ll find John Brown’s Fort . Conceived in 1848 as the Armory’s fire engine and guard house, the structure found an even more storied place in American history little more than a decade later. In 1859, nearly two years before the outbreak of the Civil War, the abolitionist John Brown launched a campaign to end slavery at Harpers Ferry. Having barricaded himself inside the fort in the waning hours of his crusade, his attempt failed, as he was wounded and captured in this now-infamous fire engine house. Despite this, Brown is thought to have generated an irreversible momentum to the Civil War that ultimately transformed America.  

Nearby, Storer College played a significant role in the urgent aftermath of the conflict here. The school, born out of the Civil War, commenced to offer educational and career opportunities to formerly enslaved people. It survived Jim Crow laws and segregation, and was chosen as the site of the second national conference of the Niagara Movement—an African-American intellectual movement—where sociologist and activist W.E.B. Du Bois proclaimed one of America’s loftiest calls for civil rights.  

A short hike away along the Appalachian Trail, visitors can experience Jefferson Rock , so named because Thomas Jefferson once stood upon it centuries ago on October 25, 1783. He was so taken with the view from atop this shale formation—a jaw-dropping vista overlooking the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, and the mountainscape beyond—that he wrote fondly of it in his Notes on the State of Virginia documents, stating plainly “This scene is worth a voyage across the Atlantic.”  

While Jefferson Rock is among the most popular stops for visitors to Harpers Ferry, the park also provides access to a network of over 300 historical Civil War sites—and counting, since historians and park educators are adding to the list all the time. Lace up and check out the Civil War Trails , a non-profit that oversees the public access and education surrounding historically significant sites throughout Jefferson County. In addition to garnering a unique taste of history, exploring these trails and sites is a one-of-a-kind way to take in stunning river views and other natural landscapes here. 

Of course, no visit to Harpers Ferry would be complete without experiencing some of the abundant outdoor adventures that have put this town on the top of so many must-see lists. For travelers of every outdoor activity level and interest, there’s truly something here for everyone.  

To remember your visit long after you’ve returned home, be sure to take home the perfect Harpers Ferry memento. High Street offers the best shopping opportunities with a wide array of artwork, goods and treats from local artisans and sellers. Stop at The Vintage Lady, a favorite boutique for unique jewelry, handmade accessories, home goods and other collectibles. And don’t miss True Treats, the only candy shop in the nation that sells candy and other treats that are made using historic recipes from the 1500s and beyond.  

Visitors to Harpers Ferry shouldn’t miss this lovely adjacent town —a favorite stopover point on the way in or out of town, thanks to its lush and verdant surroundings, part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Stay at Jackson Rose Bed & Breakfast on Washington Street, a traditional Federal-style home dating to 1795 that has been carefully restored to offer elegant accommodations and a full, hot breakfast today. Or for day-trippers looking for a true taste of these parts, refuel at Anvil Restaurant, a cozy outpost and a local favorite that serves delicious no-frills fare like crab cakes and barbecue ribs, Thursday through Sunday each week. 

Shepherdstown 

Though it may be one of the oldest towns in West Virginia, dating to 1762, your first impression of Shepherdstown of the buzzing city center will be anything but staid. In fact, this university town is decidedly cool, playing home to a flourishing community of creative performers and artists, a thriving local music scene, and a slew of award-winning restaurants to boot. For a municipality that sits on just 256 acres and has a permanent population of under 1,700 residents (as of the 2020 census), Shepherdstown’s offbeat and creative claims to fame are all the more remarkable.  

For outdoor adventurers, the C&O Canal towpath offers an ideal backdrop for a range of activities, from walking and kayaking to even distance cycling. The entirety of the C&O Canal runs 184.5 miles between Georgetown in the heart of D.C., and Cumberland, Maryland to the northwest. And with Jefferson County sitting at roughly the midpoint, this section of the recreational trail affords an incredible breadth of options, from short out-and-back explorations to more aggressive jaunts along the full trail. And if bringing your own bike or kayak isn’t on the table, Pedal & Paddle has you covered with a range of rental options to suit your plans. 

And while Shepherdstown may, at times, be overshadowed by the tourism numbers in its sister city, Harpers Ferry, just 12 miles to its southeast, it’s home to its own rich history, as well. Following the conclusion of the Civil War, Shepherdstown became the county seat as a result of damage to the courthouse in Charles Town and the changing fortunes of political figures. And at the Civil War Center at Shepherd University—a project to establish a Civil War soldier database—visitors can experience a robust library that documents the conflict, along with lectures by leading authorities and battlefield tours, all available by appointment. And at Historic Shepherdstown & Museum , you can browse exhibits from the town’s history or take a self-guided walking tour through the historic district

Collectors and shoppers won’t be disappointed here either, with a wide selection of antiques and flea markets, along with a variety of boutiques and all the spoils of any proper Main Street USA. For gifts and collectibles, head to the popular Dickinson & Wait Craft Gallery, or visit O’Hurley’s General Store to find turn-of-the-century offerings. With its own fully operational blacksmith shop right onsite, you may feel you’ve been transported through time—but don’t worry, the store has all the modern conveniences you could wish to stock up on while in town. 

Charles Town  

Last but certainly not least among the charming hubs of Jefferson County is the home of its own county seat, Charles Town. Originally founded in 1786, Charles Washington (yes, of those Washingtons—he was the youngest brother of Founding Father and first President George) once donated the land at the intersection of George Street and Washington Street for public use. Today, Charles Town seamlessly blends the past and present with rich history all around—along with plenty of contemporary dining and outdoor activities to suit every kind of traveler.  

Among the most historical destinations here, kick off your visit with a stop at Happy Retreat . This Federal/Greek Revival-style estate was once home to Charles Washington, and today the classical structure is the site of the non-profit Friends of Happy Retreat (FOHR), which maintains a center for history, heritage tourism, scholarship, culture and events. 

Nearby, the Washington Heritage Trail spans 136 miles of Eastern Panhandle mountainscape. Charles Town and Shepherdstown have both preserved historic character along their sections of the trail, inviting visitors to experience a taste of life as it once was in Colonial, Revolutionary and Civil War-era times.  

The Jefferson County Courthouse was built in 1836 and, while still in use today, it is most well-known for its role in the trial and execution of famed abolitionist, John Brown. His trial, which took place at this very courthouse, was among the most famous in American history. There’s also the Jefferson County Museum , home to a permanent collection along with various exhibits that feature a variety of Civil War items and relics, along with objects from John Brown’s trial. And at just over 5.8 square miles in size, Charles Town makes it easy to see and do it all in one short getaway.  

From Harpers Ferry to Shepherdstown to Charles Town, and all of the stunning sights and delights of the Blue Ridge Mountains in between, this region serves up historic treasures and outdoor pursuits in close proximity to each other. Whether you’re here for a daytrip or plan to settle into a cozy inn and stay a while, one thing is clear: the spoils of Jefferson County will have you wishing for even more time.  

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The Editorial Staff of Smithsonian magazine had no role in this content's preparation.

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Jefferson County CVB

With scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, history, relaxation and luxury, Jefferson County offers something for everyone. From the excitement of the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races to River Riders Family Adventure Resort – you can define your own adventure. If strolling small towns is more your speed, visit the historic cities of Harpers Ferry, Charles Town and Shepherdstown. After all the excitement and adventure, relaxation will come easy while staying at one of the county’s luxury inns, cozy B&Bs or boutique hotels.

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Ranson Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Final Cut

Harpers Ferry Event Barn

Abolitionist Ale Works

Stone River House

Jefferson County

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About the collection

The Jefferson County Museum’s collection consists of more than 2,500 artifacts; 30,000 photos and negatives; 2000 books, pamphlets, and other published materials; and thousands of pages of 18th-20th century documents and family papers. The collection represents many of the people and events important to our county’s history—from the era of indigenous peoples through the 21st century. Almost all of the items have been donated by generous members of the community. To explore the collection further, visit the Online Collection Database .

• Textiles : clothing, family quilts, coverlets, and blankets
• Uniforms and weaponry from major wars, including the Civil War, World War I, and World War II
• Children’s toys : ceramic and soft dolls and accessories, wooden and tin toys, sled, and high-wheeler bicycle
• Household objects : pottery, grinders, irons, and kettles
• Business products : Conklyn Brothers chairs, Sadler pie safe and freight wagon, Porter coverlet, pharmacy and distillery bottles, and advertising memorabilia
• Photographs , primarily black and white, from the 19th-21st centuries of people, landscapes, homes, and townscapes
• Paintings by local artists
• Maps and documents , including correspondence, financial and legal papers, ledgers, land grants, and pamphlets from the late 18th-20th centuries (see Research for more information)

How to donate to the collection

We would be delighted to talk with you if you have an item you are considering donating. Please call or email the director Lori Wysong at 304-725-8628 or [email protected] .

Charles Town | Jefferson Co. WV

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I-81 Exit 12

Historically rich and packed with interesting and fun activities is the best way to describe Jefferson County. The Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races is a poplar spot for vacationers.  Harpers Ferry  is a destination featuring wonderful outdoor activities, excellent historic sites, and beautiful natural surroundings. It was built in a natural pass through the mountains, where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge.

Visit the place developed by the Washington family; Charles Town is the site of many of their homes and farms. The famed Old Opera House Theatre offers year-round entertainment – from musicals to live dance & concerts.

The region is filled with outdoor recreation. Trip planning for the region offers opportunities for paddling, fishing, and white-water raft trips.

When you drive around the bend and enter Shepherdstown, you’ll take a quick breath at the view of German Street and say, “Wow, what a great postcard this would make!” Shepherdstown is a beautifully preserved, centuries-old town on the southern bank of the Potomac River between Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry.  

Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce 44 Trifecta Place, Suite #202 Charles Town, WV 25414

304-725-2055

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Getting To the Valley – Train

Amtrak  – You can reach the Valley directly by train by traveling to the Amtrak station in Staunton, or indirectly by traveling to stations in short driving distance in Charlottesville, Lynchburg, the Washington, D.C. area, and in Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg, West Virginia.  Also see  Amtrak Virginia .

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Airports within the Shenandoah Valley

If you are travelling by air, you can skip the rental car and schedule a private car service with Shenandoah Shores Management Group (SSMG). Our experienced drivers will pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your destination. And they can safely drive you to any other locations in the area.

Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport  Weyer’s Cave, VA (SHD) Roanoke Regional Airport   Roanoke, VA (ROA)

Airports a short driving distance from the Shenandoah Valley Baltimore Washington International Airport  (take I-70 west to I-81, then go south) Ronald Reagan National Airport  (Arlington) (take US-50, Va-7, or I-66 west to the Valley) Washington Dulles Airport  (take US-50, Va-7, or I-66 west to the Valley) Richmond International Airport  (take I-64 west to the Valley) Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport  (take I-64 west to the Valley) Blue Ridge Regional Airport  (Martinsville, Virginia)

Getting To the Valley – Car

Interstate 81 is the main north-south route to and through the Shenandoah Valley.

From the Northeast take Interstate 76 or Interstate 78 west to Interstate 81 south.

From the Northwest take Interstate 76 east to Interstate 70. At Hagerstown, MD take Interstate 81 south into the Shenandoah Valley.

To reach the Valley from the east, the main highways are Interstate 66, which brings you directly from the Washington, D.C. area and connects with I-81 near Strasburg, VA.

Interstate 64, which brings you directly from Richmond and connects with I-81 near Staunton. From the west, I-64 is again the most direct route, coming from West Virginia and linking to I-81 near Lexington, VA.

Testimony wraps up in attempt to remove 2 Jefferson County commissioners from office

Story by Luke Wiggs, WEPM Radio

CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. — Testimony wrapped up Wednesday in the attempt to remove two members of the Jefferson County Commission from office.

A three-judge panel heard from witnesses during the two-day proceeding that will determine if commissioners Jennifer Krouse and Tricia Jackson should be removed from their elected positions for not attending a number of meetings last year.

Krouse and Jackson refused to attend meetings for the better part of two months late last summer, which Jefferson County Prosecutor Matt Harvey told the three-judge panel halted county business and could have taken the county completely offline.

Krouse and Jackson were protesting the selection process being used to fill a vacancy on the commission.

In his closing argument, Harvey told the three-judge panel the decision by Krouse and Jackson not to attend seven straight meetings was a way to seize power.

“It was a protest over a personal disagreement,” adding the two commissioners “took the county government hostage.”

Krouse-Jackson attorney Traci Wiley argued the two were not guilty of misconduct and said Harvey cited no specific statute that was violated. She said Harvey used a “catch-all provision” to make his case against the commissioners.

Wiley also blamed Jefferson County Commission President Steve Stolipher for continually leaving an item on the county commission agenda that Krouse and Jackson refused to attend meetings over. Wiley called it the whole process a “legal impossibility.”

Earlier Wednesday, Harvey called several Jefferson County workers who explained the slowdown of county business because the county commission was unable to meeting because it lacked a quorum.

Among the concerns of witnesses was the possible lapsing of county contracts. Mike Sine, county director of emergency services, and Russell Burgess, director of information technology, of being forced to get extensions on contracts because the commission wasn’t meeting.

Late in the morning, both Krouse and Jackson were called to the witness stand, each invoking their 5th amendment rights against self incrimination.

Also taking the stand during the initial parts of the hearing were Stolipher, Commissioner Jane Tabb, Deak Kersey of the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office.

Both sides now have until the middle of April to present findings and facts and conclusions of law. The three-judge panel is expected to issue its ruling by the end of April.

A special prosecutor appointed to investigate the controversy has brought criminal charges against Krouse and Jackson, alleging they failed to carry out their legally bound responsibilities. They are also accused of conspiring to violate the law. There are 42 separate charges—all misdemeanors, but if convicted they could be sent to jail and fined.

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