Shepherdstown Historic District

Shepherdstown Historic District is a collection of more than 380 buildings dating from different periods, arranged mainly along German Street. The structures display Federal and 19th-century features including brick walls, metal railings, and wooden pumps that line the streets.

The town was founded in 1762 as Mecklenburg and later became significant during the Civil War era. After the Battle of Antietam, it served as a field hospital while Confederate troops destroyed the Potomac bridge in 1861.

The town takes its name from Adam Shepherd, an early settler who shaped the community. Visitors today can see this heritage reflected in the brick buildings and street layout that have remained largely unchanged for generations.

Walking is the best way to explore this area since most historic buildings are clustered close together. The Historic Shepherdstown Museum offers guided tours and exhibits to help visitors understand the town's past.

James Rumsey conducted the first public steamboat demonstration on the Potomac River in 1787. A monument in town commemorates this pioneering achievement in early river transportation.

Location: West Virginia

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture, Neoclassical architecture

Elevation above the sea: 122 m

GPS coordinates: 39.43280,-77.80670

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:21