James Rumsey Monument

The James Rumsey Monument is a 75-foot granite column topped with a globe standing on a concrete platform overlooking the Potomac River and Blue Ridge Mountains. The structure rises prominently above the surrounding landscape and creates a distinctive visual anchor in the terrain.

The monument was constructed in 1916 and honors James Rumsey, who demonstrated the first steamboat on the Potomac River in 1787. This achievement marked a turning point in transportation history and established Rumsey as a steamboat pioneer.

The memorial displays bronze plaques showing Rumsey's steam engine designs and functions as part of Shepherdstown's historic neighborhood. These artistic elements let visitors directly explore the engineer's technical innovations.

The monument is accessible via Mill Street and features a viewing platform with panoramic views of the Potomac Valley. The location offers convenient photo opportunities and viewpoints for visitors of different mobility levels.

The granite globe topping the column features carved outlines of all continents visible from multiple positions along the river. This detail allows visitors to grasp the global perspective of Rumsey's vision and makes the structure an unexpected geographic marker.

Location: Shepherdstown

Inception: 1916

Part of: Shepherdstown Historic District

GPS coordinates: 39.43278,-77.79917

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:52