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Visit a section of river between the confluence of the Potomac with the Shenandoah River and Point of Rocks, Md.
Shenandoah River
Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
Appalachian Trail
Brunswick, Md.
Point of Rocks, Md.
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Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Brown, "Stonewall" Jackson, and Frederick Douglass are just a few of the prominent people who have played a role in the history of Harpers Ferry.
Over 500,000 visitors make their way to Harpers Ferry each year to learn more about the town and the people who lived and shaped history here. This is the site of the first use of interchangeable manufacture, John Brown's famous abolitionist revolt, Civil War battles and the education of former slaves at one of the earliest integrated schools in the United States. In many ways, a visit to this park is a way to really connect with history. You can visit a period tailor's shop, stand in John Brown's fort and hear a volunteer recount the final struggle or climb to the top of Jefferson Rock and enjoy the view Thomas Jefferson described as "worth the voyage across the Atlantic."
The town has seen many changes over its history. Before European settlers, Native Americans hunted and fished along the banks of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. When the settlers arrived in the area the abundance of water power from the two rivers allowed the area to quickly develop into a thriving industrial town. The arrival of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, the Winchester & Potomac Railroad and the C&O Canal ensured the towns continued economic grown. The John Brown's raid and the Civil War shattered the community with years of fighting. Much of African American history can be linked to the towns history—slavery, the struggle for freedom, education, and early civil rights are all important aspects of Harpers Ferry's past.
Ranger-Guided Tours are offered daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Tours include: John Brown's Raid, It's Civil War, Stonewall's Brilliant Victory, Stories of Camp Hill, Harpers Ferry: A Place in History, C&O Canal Walk, Harpers Ferry Marsh Walk, Voices from Harpers Ferry, and The Guns of Harpers Ferry.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, P.O. Box 65, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425. Telephone: (304) 535-6298
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