Harpers Ferry Tourist Attractions
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On October 16th 1859 the fanatical opponent of slavery John Brown attacked the Union arsenal at Harpers Ferry, in the north-eastern tip of West Virginia, with the idea of establishing a base there and gathering former slaves round him. American troops commanded by Robert E. Lee overwhelmed his small force, and Brown was carried off to Charles Town and hanged in December 1859. His story is retold in the John Brown Wax Museum in Harpers Ferry and the Jefferson County Courthouse in Charlestown.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
A favorite among hikers, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail winds it's way through the following states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia. The trail can be accessed from a multitude of points for pleasant day hikes or for the serious hiker/backpacker, multi day or multi week sections are available. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is 2167 miles long.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harper's Ferry National Park is a well-preserved piece of US history. The town is immaculately restored, and the history of its existence and the events that took place there, are well laid out for visitors. It is well worth a visit and you will learn more than you expected.
Harper House
Named after the town's founder, Harper House was built in the late 18th Century. The house is well restored and chock full of history. Friendly staff will be able to answer all your questions about the town's founder and the house itself.
John Brown's Fort
Beautifully restored, John Brown's Fort in Harpers Ferry, chronicles the historic battle that took place here in October 1859. This National Historic Park provides a glimpse of what it was like during that ill-fated battle.
John Brown Wax Museum
The John Brown Wax Museum is not unlike its counterparts around the world. The life and times of John Brown is told through a multitude of wax figure displays. The figures are full size and quite lifelike, the displays are well done.
