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a.k.a. United States Court House & Post Office

300 W. King St., Martinsburg, WV
The former United States Courthouse and Post Office in Martinsburg is an interesting example of the picturesque eclecticism favored for public buildings during the last quarter of the 19th century. A blend of "chateauesque" and "Romanesque" elements, the building is, while by no means advanced for its day or even particularly distinguished on its own terms, significant for its very typicality. It is precisely the kind of relatively large-scale, substantial, and rather impressive structure usually granted a population center with a then-current census count of around 7,500. The authorship of the design may be attributable to Willoughby J. Edbrooke (1843-1896) who was the Supervising Architect of the Treasury Department at the time the building was planned and erected. Edbrooke, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, favored a personal version of the Richardsonian Romanesque in his government work. On the other hand, the revised drawings on site are signed by the Assistant Supervising Architect, D. W. Aiken, to whom the smaller buildings to be planned may have been assigned. Another Treasury Department architect who may have played a role in formulating the final plans is J. O'Rourke, Supervising Architect for a period from 1893 to 1894. Therefore, Edbrooke cannot be credited with sole authorship of the Custom House design. Variations on the initial scheme are evident in the finished product, especially in the treatment of fenestration on the corners and on the first floor where square-headed windows have been combined with the round-headed windows of the original design. In 1894, there was some question over whether plumbing would be introduced in the building, contingent upon a sewage system being available.

The Martinsburg building is characteristic of the construction used in government buildings of its time and the looming scale of its tall walls and high roof give dignity and importance to the intersection where the building stands.

The building was used for the purposes for which it was built from 1895 until 1961 when the courthouse and post office were moved to a nearby new Federal Building. The old Courthouse and Post Office now houses records and is not open to any but authorized personnel.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture
The West Virginia Mine Wars, a series of labor disputes and violent conflicts between coal miners and mining companies, took place in the early 1900s. The conflicts, which included the Battle of Blair Mountain in 1921, had a significant impact on the labor movement in the United States.
West Virginia random facts
Berkeley County, West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tuscarora and the Seneca, who used the land for hunting and fishing. In the late 17th century, European settlers started arriving in the region, primarily from Scotland, Ireland, and Germany.

In 1772, Berkeley County was officially established by the Virginia General Assembly and named after Irish philosopher and bishop George Berkeley. The county's location along the Potomac River made it an important transportation route, leading to increased trade and economic growth in the area. During the American Revolutionary War, Berkeley County played a significant role as it provided troops and supplies for the Continental Army.

The early 19th century brought about the expansion of industry and infrastructure in Berkeley County. The arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the mid-1800s further facilitated trade and development, connecting the county to major markets. The county's economy thrived with the establishment of iron foundries, mills, orchards, and tobacco farming.

Berkeley County experienced various significant events during the Civil War. While the county itself remained under Union control, it saw several small-scale battles and skirmishes. Despite the devastation caused by the war, the county bounced back and witnessed growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and education during the latter part of the 19th century.

Today, Berkeley County continues to be a growing and thriving community. Its proximity to major cities like Washington D.C. and Baltimore, as well as its picturesque rural landscapes, make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The county is home to historical landmarks, such as the Berkeley County Courthouse, which was built in 1854 and still stands as a symbol of the area's past. With a blend of history, natural beauty, and economic opportunities, Berkeley County remains an important and vibrant part of West Virginia's heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Berkeley County, West Virginia.

  • 1745 - Berkeley County, WV was established as the second county in the state of West Virginia.
  • Late 1700s - Berkeley County became an important center for commerce and trade due to its location along major transportation routes.
  • 1863 - During the American Civil War, Berkeley County was occupied by Union forces.
  • 1878 - The Martinsburg Roundhouse, a significant railroad facility, was completed in Berkeley County.
  • Late 19th century - Berkeley County experienced industrial and economic growth, with the establishment of glass manufacturing, textile mills, and other industries.
  • 20th century - Berkeley County saw continued development and population growth, becoming an important suburban area and commuter hub for nearby metropolitan areas.
  • Present - Berkeley County is home to a diverse population and continues to experience growth in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and tourism.