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Historic Sites in West Virginia
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Blennerhassett Historical State Park
A splendid, reconstructed mansion replaces the one originally
built by Harman Blennerhassett in 1800 and destroyed by fire in
1811. The tranquil, tree-covered island in the Ohio River on
which the house rests was the site where Blennerhassett and
Aaron Burr allegedly planned in 1806 to establish an empire in
the Southwest. The house is decorated with original pieces and
furnishings of the period. Visitors may travel to the island on
unique sternwheelers which leave from Point Park in downtown
Parkersburg. Bicycle rentals, picnicking, guided mansion tours,
horse drawn wagon rides and a traditional crafts village with
demonstrations are featured on the island. The Blennerhassett
Museum at 2nd and Juliana Streets is open year-round and
features items owned by the Blennerhassetts, an archaeological
exhibit, Civil War relics, old clothing, guns and a gift shop.
Contact the park for operating hours. Special events, battle
reenactments and other activities take place throughout the
year. For information call: (304)420-4800
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
The site of a major battle during the Civil War, Carnifex Ferry
Battlefield preserves an integral part of the historic heritage
of West Virginia. The Patteson House, which was situated between
Union and Confederate lines during the skirmish, has been
restored as an interpretive museum containing Civil War relics
from the area, and a film about the battle is offered. Hiking
trails to scenic overlooks, picnicking, game courts and a
playground are also featured at this historical site. An annual
battle reenactment is held in the fall. For information call:
(304)872-0825
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
On November 6, 1863, the largest Civil War engagement of West
Virginia's history occurred on this high, mountain plateau
overlooking the beautiful and vast Greenbrier Valley. Standing
among the tall trees, it is not difficult to imagine the fierce
battle that took place here over a century ago. Part of the
battlefield is restored and marked for visitors, and a small
museum contains Civil War artifacts. Recreational opportunities
include hiking trails to scenic overlooks, an observation tower,
picnicking and a playground. A battle reenactment is featured
every other year. For information call: (304)653-4254
Prickett's Fort State Park
Located on the site of an early frontier stronghold, this fort
has been reconstructed to resemble its original 1774
counterpart. Within the compound are 16 cabins, a meeting hall
and a storehouse which features authentic demonstrations of
pioneer crafts. Also on site is the restored home of Job
Prickett (c. 1860). In addition, the park offers picnicking, an
amphitheater for the performing arts and a boat-launching ramp
affording access to the Monongahela River. For information call:
(304)363-3030
Watters Smith Memorial State Park
The heritage of early West Virginia is preserved in the pioneer
homestead restoration at this park. Through the wisdom of a
descendent, the late 1700s farm of Watters Smith was bequeathed
to the state park system to be preserved for posterity. A log
cabin similar to the original was moved and reconstructed on the
park, the Smith family home (c. 1876) has been restored as a
museum, and an additional museum houses many early farm
artifacts. Guided tours are offered from Memorial Day weekend
through Labor Day. In addition, the park features swimming,
picnicking and hiking trails. For information call:
(304)745-3081
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