Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a national historic park known for John Brown’s attack on slavery and the largest surrender of Federal troops during the American Civil War. A day trip or weekend getaway to this region is a great way to combine a love of history and nature. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park covers over 2,300 acres and crosses into three states: West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of scenic hiking trails and explore the historic town which offers ranger-guided tours, museums, restaurants and craft shops. It involves a diverse number of people and events that influenced the course of our nation’s history. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park witnessed the first successful application of interchangeable manufacture, the arrival of the first successful American railroad, John Brown’s attack on slavery, the largest surrender of Federal troops during the Civil War, and the education of former slaves in one of the earliest integrated schools in the United States.
History and Culture
The History of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has few parallels in the American Darama. It is more than one event, one date, or one individual. It is multi-layered – involving a diverse number of people and events that influenced the course of our nation’s history complete travel information. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park witnessed the first successful application of interchangeable manufacture, the arrival of the first successful American railroad, John Brown’s attack on slavery, the largest surrender of Federal troops during the Civil War, and the education of former slaves in one of the earliest integrated schools in the United States.
Today Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Today the town is a National Historical Park, and it still looks as it did during the Civil War. Its mixture of historic events and recreational activities draws about one million visitors annually. A number of older homes in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park have been converted to quaint shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Many of its historic buildings have exhibits and interpretive displays that bring the town’s history to life. Walking and hiking trails wind throughout the area, and the Shenandoah River is a preferred spot for tubing and kayaking. The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, where rock climbing and rappelling are popular activities.
Location
The historic town of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is located along U.S. Route 340 in Jefferson County, West Virginia, about 90 minutes from Washington, DC. Three states, West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland meet in the area.Public transportation is available by Amtrak or MARC Rail.The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.It will not be an exaggeration to say that Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a Adventures Place For Vacations.