Museums and Living History
Ft. Edwards was one of many forts guarding the Virginia frontier during the French and Indian War. In the late 1740's, this river valey was one of several areas surveyed for Lord Fairfax by the young George Washington. In 1756, Col. Washington's Virginia Regiment led a raid from the small fort which stumbled into an ambush of over 100 French and Indian raiders
in the largest and most costly encounter between Virginia and French-Indian forces. Today, the Ft. Edwards Foundation preserves this historic site and operates a small Visitor Center with a museum, maps, and books. Located in Capon Bridge just 20 miles west of Winchester, the Center is open mid-June through mid-October on the weekends. See website for more information: http://www.fortedwards.org/.
Ft. Mill Ridge is among the best-preserved civil war trenches in the nation. Built by Union troops in 1863, the fort is comprised of an outer ring of entrenchments and a central redoubt for artillery. At one time, two infantry regiments of 2,000 men guarded this extensive network of trenches to control key roadways and enable defense of the B&O Railroad line. Trail information provides an overview of the fort and its history. The trail loop takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour. The fort is located a few miles west of Romney on Route 50. 304-822-4320.
Taggart Hall Museum displays Civil War memorabilia and Fenton glass. Located at 91 High St. in Romney. 304-822-7221.
The Davis History House is the only log house still standing on its original lot in Romney. It contains civil war memorabilia and the personal effects of the Davis family who lived there more than 150 years. The collection is maintained by the Hampshire County Public Library. Visitors can enter via the Library. For more information, call 304-822-3185.
Indian Mound Cemetary contains an ancient burial area for Indians. Although never excavated, authorities suggest it may have been built between AD 500 and AD 1000 by the Hopewellian tribe. The Cemetary, located just outside Romney looking over the South Branch River, is also home to the Confederate Monument, supported by local Confederate soldiers and families who organzied the Confederate Memorial Association. See http://www.historichampshire.org/civilwar/confed.htm.
Capon Bridge Public Library & Doctor Gardner Museum
Local history references, genealogy reference center. Museum features local artifacts, open when library is open. Location: Rt. 50, Capon Bridge (Next to First National Bank of Romney branch); Mon-Wed-Thur 11AM-6 PM , Fri 11AM -5PM ; Tues 2PM - 8PM ; Sat 9AM-1PM
304-856-3777. See http://www.historichampshire.org/CB/cbmuseum.htm.
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