Harlan Spring Historic District
Harlan Spring, Hedgesville, WVThe Harlan Spring District is significant for its early settlement. George Harlan a Quaker, settled here in the 1740s and was one of the early settlers of this area of Berkeley County. It has a further significance in demonstrating the social-humanitarian relationship. Spring Hill Has been in the direct line of George Harlan since the first survey of land in 1751. The Willow has been in the direct line of the Sybert family since the land was purchased by John Sybert from Daniel Harlan in 1806. There are 7 buildings that are all significant for their type of architecture: The Spring Hill house, a log house originally built in the 1740s. It is one of Berkeley County's oldest buildings. The Cottage is built of log.
The stone smokehouse is very old, ca. 1700s. The Willows was built two times. The stone house was 1812, brick in the 1850s. Both show the style and type of the period. The Lingamfelter house is built of native limestone and shows a type of farm mansion built in the early 1800s. The two stone spring houses located at the foot of the hill all blend with the Harlan Spring, its ponds with three sides surrounded by the ancient mansions on the hilltops for a most unusual picturesque setting. A further significance of its architectural landscaping is evident by the log cottage partially secluded behind a hill but yet still visible. A further significance is its association with the Revolutionary War and Indian uprisings (French & Indian War). In the 1750s tradition has come down that Spring Hill was attacked by the Indians. One of the small Harlan children was captured by them. They beat the child's brains out on a rock in front of the house. George Harlan's son, Silas 1753-1782, left Spring Hill with Jim Herrod and his men. He commanded a company under Gen. Roger Clark's Illinois in 1779. He was killed in the battle of Blue Lick Spring Kentucky in 1782. James, another son of George Harlan, also served in the Revolutionary War.
Social-humanitarian significance demonstrated that the Sibert and Harlan families have lived and associated together here at these springs for over 170 years benefiting each other's welfare.
The area has been designated as a historic district because of its survival of three early farmhouses with their dependencies and its outstanding early architectural landscape.
Local significance of the district:
The stone smokehouse is very old, ca. 1700s. The Willows was built two times. The stone house was 1812, brick in the 1850s. Both show the style and type of the period. The Lingamfelter house is built of native limestone and shows a type of farm mansion built in the early 1800s. The two stone spring houses located at the foot of the hill all blend with the Harlan Spring, its ponds with three sides surrounded by the ancient mansions on the hilltops for a most unusual picturesque setting. A further significance of its architectural landscaping is evident by the log cottage partially secluded behind a hill but yet still visible. A further significance is its association with the Revolutionary War and Indian uprisings (French & Indian War). In the 1750s tradition has come down that Spring Hill was attacked by the Indians. One of the small Harlan children was captured by them. They beat the child's brains out on a rock in front of the house. George Harlan's son, Silas 1753-1782, left Spring Hill with Jim Herrod and his men. He commanded a company under Gen. Roger Clark's Illinois in 1779. He was killed in the battle of Blue Lick Spring Kentucky in 1782. James, another son of George Harlan, also served in the Revolutionary War.
Social-humanitarian significance demonstrated that the Sibert and Harlan families have lived and associated together here at these springs for over 170 years benefiting each other's welfare.
The area has been designated as a historic district because of its survival of three early farmhouses with their dependencies and its outstanding early architectural landscape.
Landscape Architecture; Military; Exploration/settlement; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
About National Register Listings
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.
The first electric railroad in the world was built in West Virginia in 1888. The line ran between Huntington and Guyandotte and was powered by electricity generated from a hydroelectric plant on the Ohio River.
About Berkeley County
Berkeley County Timeline
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.
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.
Berkeley County Timeline
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.