Not to be confused with Charleston, the state capital of West Virginia, Charles Town is the county seat of Jefferson County and a proud historic city. Located in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle, near the junction of three states – Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia – Charles Town is considered part of the Washington D.C. metro area, as the city is only 57 miles away from the national capital. Charles Town, WV real estate is also convenient to Baltimore and other cities in Maryland, making it an ideal choice for commuters who want to escape the bustle and high cost of living in the inner suburbs. Owners of Charles Town, WV real estate who prefer not to drive can catch Amtrak or MARC trains to Baltimore and Washington D.C. in nearby Martinsburg.
Historic Charles Town
Charles Town was founded by Charles Washington, the less-than-famous younger brother of George Washington. Charles and his wife Mildred built their home, Happy Retreat, in 1780, and in 1786, the first streets of Charles Town were laid out on 80 acres of land adjoining their estate. Four lots at the intersection of George Street and Washington Street were also donated as building sites for town administrative buildings. Charles authorized this, however, with one proviso: that the town he built become a new County Seat, and be separate from its neighbors in Berkeley County. Unfortunately, Charles died in 1799, shortly before the official incorporation of Jefferson County in 1801. But his legacy lives on in the city he built. In fact, the Jefferson County Courthouse still stands on one of the four donated lots today.
The Jefferson County Courthouse gained national fame as the site of the criminal trial of Abolitionist John Brown, who attacked the Harpers Ferry armory in 1859. His raid is considered by some to be one of the catalysts of the Civil War, as it brought tensions between abolitionists and slave owners to the surface. Brown was hanged before the courthouse, but his trial and execution inspired many. The song “John Brown’s Body” even became one of the Union Army’s marching chants. Another infamous trial witnessed at the courthouse was that of William Blizzard, who led area coal miners in a strike, and later led combat with state and federal troops. The trials of Blizzard and Brown are two of only three treason trials held in the United States prior to World War II.
Charles Town Today
Today, Charles Town is a thriving city, one with a rich attention to its history and a dedication to the preservation of its historical artifacts. Recently Charles Washington’s manor home was purchased by the non-profit corporation Friends of Happy Retreat. The Friends endeavor to preserve this important building, as well as the adjoining lands and the burial sites of Charles Washington, his wife, and their children.
Charles Town was designated in 2006 as a “Preserve America” community by First Lady Laura Bush, in recognition of the commitment of the community to hold its past in trust for future generations. Those considering Charles Town, WV real estate may also endeavor to preserve their own little piece of history. A number of homes in the city are considered historical properties and retain many of their original features. These properties are generally concentrated in the downtown area, which is the oldest part of the city, especially on Washington, George, and Samuel Streets.
The approximately 3,000 residents of Charles Town enjoy median incomes well above the West Virginia average, and also tend to be well-educated, possessing at least a bachelor’s degree. Only 45 percent of adults in the city are married, and the city enjoys a lively singles scene. The city also boasts a lower than average rate of violent crimes and property crimes.
Come experience the best that West Virginia has to offer: come home to Charles Town. No matter what your style or your needs, there’s a perfect Charles Town, WV real estate property waiting for you. For more information about Charles Town, WV real estate, contact expert Realtor Gar Edmondson of The Team Titans at 304.725.6360 today.
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