Romney is West Virginia's oldest town. Incorporated in 1762, Romney will celebrate its 250th birthday in 2012. http://www.historichampshire.org/history/romneyfound.htm. Rich in history and beauty, Romney sits alongside the headwaters of the Potomac River. Romney lies along the Northwestern Turnpike (now Rt. 50) beside the headwaters of the Potomac River. In 1748 sixteen year old George Washington came to Hampshire County to survey the original Lord Fairfax land grant.
Romney is the county seat of Hampshire County which has 650 square miles of territory and less than 22,000 in population. This population swells on the weekends with people from the Washington DC/Baltimore area who have 2nd homes here. Romney is only 100 miles west of Washington DC and has around 2000 residents inside the city limits. The beautiful rolling hills are full of fruit orchards and the Farmer's Market in downtown Romney is an eclectic mix of produce, baked goods, herbs and plants, artisans and musicians. On Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through October the Farmer's Market is a delightful experience.
The orchard country lends itself well to vineyards and there are 3 WV wineries within 30 minutes of Romney. Romney offers Washingtonians and city dwellers "southern hospitality" and a friendly getaway small town atmosphere. Several evenings a week, local musicians 'jam' on the sidewalk at Potomac Music on Main Street entertaining passersby. The local Arts Council and the Loy Foundation offer continual cultural opportunities with concerts, art exhibits, studio tours and more. Downtown shops and public buildings have local art exhibits, classes, and feature local musicians, artisans and writers.
Arguably one of the finest train excursions in the country, the historic Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad excursion is a 3.5 hour narrated ride through "
The Trough" area of the
South Branch of the
Potomac River. Over 20,000 people annually enjoy the trainride and the pristine beauty of the valley and its wildlife. Sighted on over 90% of the trips, bald eagles will sometimes fly alongside the train and swope down and go fishing in the river or they may be seen sitting on their nests in the trees along the river. The valley's rich history is narrated during the ride, highlighted by
George Washington's 3 year sojourn beginning in 1748 in
Hampshire County surveying the land for Lord Fairfax & the best preserved trenches from the War Between the States at
Fort Mill Ridge. Restoration of the old
railroad cars & engines as well as the scenic excursion are the work of owners, David Corbitt &
Dan Snyder, CSX engineers with lifelong interests in railroading. Many Potomac Eagle crew members are retired railroaders, too. Website is www.potomaceagle.com.
The South Branch of the Potomac River offers an amazing float trip through "The Trough," river sports, fishing, camping, bird watching and great outdoor hiking opportunities for everyone.
Events in the area include:
Confederate Memorial Holiday - early June
Bluegrass Festival June 27th this year
Sunflower Fest - August 14, 15th this year
4 Murder Mystery Train Excursions (July-Oct)
Autumn in Romney and the Woman's Club Holiday Bazaar
Highland Arts Studio Tour & Christmas in Romney - December
www.ComeToHampshire.com is the website for our CVB and has lodging information, events schedule, etc.
