Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown is a town along the Potomac River in Jefferson County, West Virginia, at an elevation near 120 meters (400 feet). Houses from the 18th and 19th centuries line the main streets, while Shepherd University occupies the eastern side of the settlement.

Thomas Shepherd founded the settlement in 1734 and initially named it Mecklenburg, until the Virginia legislature issued an official charter in 1762. The surrounding area saw several battles during the Civil War, turning the town into a border zone between the opposing sides.

The town center takes its name from Thomas Shepherd, who surveyed land and drew early settlers here. Many houses still show the building styles from before the Civil War, when the region was contested between North and South.

Route 45 runs through the town center and provides access to shops and restaurants in the historic buildings. Parking is available along side streets, while the proximity to the river allows short walks.

James Rumsey demonstrated the first working steamboat on the Potomac here in December 1787, propelling water through a mechanical pump. A small museum on German Street remembers this early invention and displays replicas of the design.

Location: Jefferson County

Inception: 1734

Elevation above the sea: 122 m

Website: http://shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com

GPS coordinates: 39.43190,-77.80610

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:51