Alex Mooney: “There are few places in our country that have both strong historical significance and scenic beauty. Harpers Ferry is…”

“There are few places in our country that have both strong historical significance and scenic beauty. Harpers Ferry is perhaps the greatest example of both. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was founded in 1734 by Robert Harper, who purchased the land for 50 guineas, or around $262. Over the next 282 years, this quaint town was the backdrop for some of the most important events in American history. From the earliest settlement of this great Nation through the founding of the railroads, the beginning of Meriwether Lewis' adventure with William Clark out West, John Brown's raid, numerous Civil War battles and skirmishes, and the beginning of the civil rights movement, Harpers Ferry has stood the test of time and watched our American history unfold. As for the scenic beauty, none have described it better than one of our Nation's great founders, President Thomas Jefferson. After visiting Harpers Ferry on October 25, 1783, the author of the Declaration of Independence said he viewed ``the passage of the Potomac River through the Blue Ridge as perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature.'' Let me tell you, this picture does not do the town justice. Harpers Ferry is a national treasure that has been enjoyed by millions of families for centuries.…”