The haven of Shepherdstown, an unincorporated community in West Virginia’s Jefferson County, is situated along the banks of the Potomac River in the lovely Shenandoah Valley. With the Blue Ridge Mountains only a few steps away, and the cities of Washington D.C. and Baltimore just over an hour away by car, Shepherdstown, WV real estate represents a true blend of suburban convenience with old mountain charm.
Early History
The town was founded by Thomas Shepherd, who was granted 222 acres of land on the south bank of the Potomac in 1734. Shepherd designated fifty acres of that parcel for use as a town, which was chartered by the Virginia Assembly in 1762, and of which Thomas Shepherd was the sole trustee. The more than 20 natural springs feeding the area in and around Shepherdstown made the town attractive to artisans, millers, and tanners, and by 1775, the town’s population had reached nearly 1,000 people.
Shepherdstown was the site of a major Civil War battle, after Confederate General Robert E. Lee forded the Potomac at Pack Horse Ford, about a mile downstream from the town. The Battle of Shepherdstown – also remembered as the Battle of Boteler’s Ford – resulted in many casualties. The 100 Confederate soldiers who died in that battle, as well as 185 others, are buried in historic Elmwood Cemetery on the south end of town.
If you’re interested in colonial and Civil War history, you’ll be interested to know that Shepherdstown boasts fourteen properties listed on the National Historic register, including Elmwood Cemetery. Shepherd’s Mill (which belonged to the town’s founder Thomas Shepherd), the James Marshall House, and Rose Hill Farm are just a few of the historic properties that are just moments away from your new from Shepherdstown, WV real estate.
A Bastion of Culture
Shepherdstown, WV real estate brings its residents close to fantastic programs and experiences at Shepherd University, formerly known as Shepherd College. About 4,000 students attend classes at the University, which offers degrees in art and art education, music, social work, education, and other areas. The University also offers 11 NCAA Division II sports, including football, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s golf, baseball, softball, and women’s volleyball.
With so many creatively inclined students in residence, Shepherdstown enjoys a thriving arts and cultural scene. Owners of Shepherdstown, WV real estate will enjoy the many varied creative events conducted year round. A few of the more prominent events include the Contemporary American Theater Festival, which operates as a “play development center” and presents four new American plays on the campus of Shepherd University each summer. Playwrights who have been showcased in past seasons include Joyce Carol Oates, Sam Shepherd and Richard Dresser.
Shepherdstown Music and Dance is a folk dance group dedicated to preserving traditional music and dance: sponsored events include contra dances, Morris dancing, and concerts. Also of interest to devotees of traditional music are the Upper Potomac Music Weekends. These workshops are fun for both musicians and listeners, as the learning sessions usually culminate in a public concert. The Shepherdstown Opera House first began showing films in 1909, and is one of America’s oldest movie theaters today. After a long period of disuse, the landmark theater was renovated and reopened in 1992, featuring the most modern projection and sound systems.
Fine Dining in Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is home to some of Jefferson County’s finest cuisine. Ethnic foods ranging from Asian to German can be found around town, as well as an organic food store, several fine bakeries, and a farmer’s market. Downtown boutiques offer everything from handcrafted rugs and fine household goods to fly fishing equipment and backpacking gear.
When you purchase Shepherdstown, WV real estate, you’re investing in a lifestyle that incorporates the best traditional values with the finest modern conveniences. Whether you choose a new construction home, an established residence, or historic Shepherdstown, WV real estate, you’re sure to feel right at home in this welcoming, eclectic community in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. For more information about Shepherdstown, WV real estate, contact expert Realtor Gar Edmondson of The Team Titans at 304.725.6360 today. |
