The former industrial powerhouse of Harpers Ferry was sliding towards obscurity when the state of West Virginia gave the lower town to the National Park Service in 1944. Major restoration efforts created the National Historical Park which is a collection of many small museums established within original buildings restored to their 1859 condition when the town was at the height of its fame and fortune.
The story told in the park is a conjuncture of many American themes: Native Americans; industry and transportation, including firearms and weaponry used for the Lewis and Clark Expedition; John Brown’s raid; the Civil War; and the unparalleled natural environment.
African-American history was highlighted by the addition of the defunct Storer College campus to the park. Storer was established after the Civil War as one of the earliest institutions for educating former slaves. The early 20th century Niagara Movement began there spurring establishment of the NAACP. At its peak, Storer College boasted 20 buildings and 100 students.
Trained park rangers and volunteers bring history to life in tours and special activities year ‘round.
For More Information: 304-535-629 • www.nps.gov/hafe
