Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

I recently took a trip with my family to Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park. Harper’s Ferry was where John Brown attempted to start a slave rebellion in 1859. Brown raided the armory in hopes of starting a violent rebellion but a lack of support led to his mission’s failure. He was captured and found guilty of several crimes including treason against Virginia (West Virginia had not become a separate state yet). As punishment for his crimes, Brown was hanged in December 1859.

In this town you can also see “The Point“. The Point is where West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, the Potomac River and the Shenandoah River all converge. This was a place of great strategic importance during the war due to its easy access to other parts of the country.

Just a short drive away from the main town is Bolivar Heights. This battlefield was the first to be used in Harper’s Ferry and it saw a large amount of action during the civil war (five battles to be exact).

If you are a history buff, this park is definitely for you!

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