Scenic Jefferson County is only an hour drive from the Baltimore and Washington DC metro area. While increased commerce, light industry, and a burgeoning commuter population make it the fastest growing area in the state, the county remains largely rural.

Jefferson County comprises three major population centers: the historic Harpers Ferry and Bolivar communities; bustling Charles Town, the county seat and home of the exquisitely renovated Charles Town Races and Slots; and quaint, charming Shepherdstown, the oldest town in the state and home to Shepherd University, a fully-accredited, state-supported university of over 5000 students.

The cultural growth of the county has been enhanced by the art, drama, and musical offerings of the Arts and Humanities Alliance of Jefferson County, public and privately owned galleries, and by the restoration of the Old Opera House in both Charles Town where live productions are held, and the Shepherdstown Opera House which offers a venue for many critically-acclaimed films that may not have the commercial appeal for the large stadium-type movie houses in nearby towns.

Shepherdstown is dotted with fine restaurants, antique galleries, and unique shops. The nationally recognized Contemporary American Theatre Festival is held during the last 3 weeks of July on the stages of Shepherd University. Throughout the rest of the year there are many special events including American Conservation Film Festival, Dulcimer festivals, Bluegrass, Ballet, and Jazz performances.

The area abounds in recreational opportunities including rafting and kayaking on the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, world-class auto and thoroughbred racing, golf, back packing on the Appalachian Trail, biking on the C&O Canal Towpath, skiing at Whitetail and shopping of all kinds from Walmart to an upscale regional outlet mall. The county boasts many fine restaurants, B&B’s and a four-star resort—The Bavarian Inn.

The semi-annual juried Harpers Ferry Arts and Crafts Festival draws huge crowds to enjoy its music and artwork including pottery, baskets, musical instruments, rugs, jewelry and much more. Local poets, writers, painters and musicians offer a wide array of entertainment year round.

While property taxes are somewhat lower than in neighboring states, the community is not lacking in services. Jefferson Memorial Hospital recently became part of  the WV University Hospital System. The MARC train provides daily service to Washington DC and both Dulles International  and  Baltimore/Washington Airports are less than 90 minutes away.  

Major sources of employment are, surprisingly, the Federal Government operating the National Park Service, the US Fish and Wildlife Center, the Operations Center for the US Coast Guard, a regional IRS facility and a huge VA Hospital.

The quality of life in Eastern West Virginia seems to be the major attraction to those relocating from metropolitan areas. To young  professionals, families and retirees alike,   “Almost Heaven” is an understatement.

Greg Didden Associates does not endorse or approve any content in the above websites. Links are provided as a courtesy only.