Romney: River Landscape, Railways and Architectural History

Romney combines a river landscape and mountain scenery with historic buildings and specific places to visit. The town lies on a river terrace above the South Branch of the Potomac River and at the foot of South Branch Mountain. Different options can shape your trip: a ride on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, activities on the river, and sites with architectural history and an archaeological past.

River Landscapes and Excursions

Excursions on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad depart from Wappocomo Station in Romney. The southbound trip travels through Trough Canyon, covers 76 miles and ends in Petersburg, West Virginia. Visitors may spot American bald eagles on this trip. Its direction, length and endpoint give the journey a clearly defined route; the possibility of seeing eagles combines the train ride with wildlife watching along the way. If your main goal is to experience the landscape from the train, this trip makes a distinct itinerary item alongside the historic sites.

Water sports and riverside campgrounds are also among the tourist activities in Romney. The riverside campgrounds are used in spring, summer and fall. Hunting and fishing are also very popular tourist activities. Riverside camping therefore has a specific seasonal window; if you plan to camp by the river, you can time your visit accordingly.

Historic Sites and Buildings

The Davis House was built in 1798 and is the only surviving log cabin on its original lot within the Town of Romney. Tours can be arranged through the Hampshire County Public Library. At Indian Mound Cemetery, the mound measures about 15 feet in diameter and approximately seven feet in height. It is believed to have been built sometime between 550 BC and 1400 AD; its exact age remains uncertain. These two sites represent different timeframes: an exact construction year for the Davis House and a broad estimated period for the mound’s construction.

Taggart Hall was built in the 1790s by Frances Taggart (Tygart), a Quaker. It also serves as a starting point for a historical walking tour of Romney. The building date and its builder connect the structure to a specific person and period in the town’s history. Tours of the Fort Mill Ridge Civil War Museum can be arranged by calling 681-231-2400. In the area around Romney, Fort Mill Ridge features Civil War trenches, trails and interpretive signs.

The Hampshire County Courthouse is the only example of Neo-Classical Revival architecture within the Town of Romney. Literary Hall was built in 1870 by the Literary Society of Romney. The society was originally founded as the Polemic Society of Romney on January 30, 1819. The two sites highlight different aspects of history: the courthouse is notable for its architectural style, while Literary Hall is associated with both its construction date and the society’s founding history.

Discover more destinations: Purgitsville, Springfield.

Go to the broader travel overview: Hampshire County.