Hampshire County was founded in 1754, but its history dates back much further. One of the county's prime historical attractions is Indian Mound Cemetery, built by the Hopewellian tribe 500 to 1,000 years ago. This ancient burial ground overlooks the South Branch River just outside Romney. Hampshire County is also home to Fort Edwards, where a young George Washington led a raid against French and Indian forces in 1756. Other historical places of interest across the county include Fort Mill Ridge, one of the best-preserved Civil War trenches in the country, and the Davis History House, which is the only log cabin in Romney that still stands on its original lot.
Outdoor enthusiasts can find almost limitless recreational opportunities in Hampshire County. The county is home to six state wildlife management areas, which provide excellent hunting grounds for deer, turkey, squirrel, grouse and black bear. Short Mountain and Nathaniel Mountain Wildlife Management Area also have primitive backcountry campsites. Fishing for smallmouth bass, panfish, rock bass and trout is available in the South Branch Potomac River, Devil Hole Run, Meadow Run, North River and several other streams across the county. A current West Virginia fishing license is required. Information on hunting and fishing licenses, backcountry regulations and camping opportunities is found through the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources website.
Agriculture is a major part of life in Hampshire County, and several farms and orchards across the Potomac Highlands sell their produce directly to the public. You can pick your own blueberries, blackberries and heirloom vegetables during summer at Church View Farm, located near the community of Three Churches. Shanholtz Orchard, just east of Romney, lets you pick your own cherries early in summer and apples from late summer to early fall. Nearby Mount Levels Orchard offers peaches in August and September. You can also find local crafts and seasonal produce at the Romney Farmers Market, held every Saturday and Wednesday from early May to early November at the Romney Bottling Works.
Ranging from annual festivals to weekly events, Hampshire County hosts a wide variety of attractions throughout the year. The Romney Farmers Market often features live music, and the Bottling Works frequently hosts concerts ranging from jazz and classical to Appalachian folk music and blues, often for free. The Hampshire Heritage Festival offers live music, historical reenactments, a lumberjack championship, food vendors and displays by local artists and craftsmen every September in Romney. The Hampshire County Fair -- usually held in August -- presents a horse show, talent contests, carnival rides, arts and crafts, livestock judging and a wide variety of food options.
