Hampshire County
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Explore the First West Virginia Town Nearly every building in Romney has beenmarked by the Civil War. In fact, Romney was second only to Winchester, Virginia, in activity during the conflict. Romney was located along a highly strategic road during the Civil War—the Northwestern Turnpike— near the B&ORailroad, which was a connecting line between the port of Baltimore and the Ohio River. now a thriving community arts building. Managed by the Loy Foundation, The BottlingWorks hosts live music, art shows, community groups, and the Romney FarmersMarket . You will also discover a selection of unique dining and shopping options as you stroll through downtown.
THE KOOLWINK MOTEL This family-ownedmotel has been greeting travelers since 1936. The 1950s-style spot with pristine rooms in vintage decor is a destination unto itself. Expect flat screen TVs and wireless internet, but also spacious porches and a dose of hometown hospitality. 24350 Northwestern Pike, Romney, 304.822.3595, koolwink.com SOUTH BRANCH INN With locations in both Moorefield and Romney, South Branch Inn offers natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Choose from over 160 rooms including suites with jacuzzi tubs. Conference and meeting space available. 64 Heritage Circle, Romney; 1500 U.S. Highway 220 North, Moorefield; 866.492.3122, wvafun.com BUFFALO GAP RETREAT Open fromApril 20 to November 1, Buffalo Gap Retreat has six cabins that sleep up to 12 each. There are also camping options, a communal kitchen, a lake, a beach, a lakefront wood-fired sauna, and hiking trails. 229 Cool Creek Road, Capon Bridge, 202.422.7430, buffalogapretreat.com
Not only is this little hamlet a hotbed for the arts, but it has a world-class attraction at its doorstep. The natural trough near which Romney sits is a remote, forested canyon dissected by the pristine waters of the Potomac’s South Branch, and it’s only accessible by train, canoe, or kayak. The Potomac Eagle scenic railroad takes visitors through this slice of untouched wilderness, mixing in a little history and wonder en route. Those looking to access the Trough via water can always stop at the TroughGeneral Store at the mouth of the canyon, where canoe and kayak rentals, snacks, gear, and even camping spots are available.
Both Union and Confederate troops fought to keep the town, which was tossed back and forth between occupiers many times—some say as many as 56 times. Romney is a surprising locus of art, culture, and, of course, history that’s been attracting visitors and new residents for more than 250 years. Although it is now consideredWest Virginia’s oldest town, chartered the morning of December 23, 1762— the mayor will happily supply you with a copy of the official legislative citation—much of what Romney has to offer visitors is a product of recent transformations. History, especially Civil War history, burns hot in the blood for Romney residents, but so do civic engagement and the arts. Romney may be the oldest incorporated community in the oldest county inWest Virginia, but it continues to reinvent itself through the passion of new residents, entrepreneurs, and artists. Clusters of historic brick and clapboard buildings line Romney’s streets and, through the careful efforts of residents, a few have taken on new life as small businesses or community centers. The historic brick- sided Coca-Cola bottling factory onMain Street is
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