Romney sits on a river terrace above the South Branch of the Potomac River and at the foot of South Branch Mountain. Historic buildings, river activities, and a train ride through Trough Canyon offer different ways to shape your stay. Choosing Romney means you can explore its cultural history, landscapes, and excursions.
River Landscapes and Excursions
Hunting and fishing are among Romney’s most popular tourist activities. Water sports and riverside campgrounds are also part of the tourist offering; the riverside campgrounds are used in spring, summer, and fall. The seasonal information provides a helpful guide as you consider which of these activities suit your stay.
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad offers another perspective on the surrounding area. Train excursions depart from Wappocomo Station in Romney. The southbound trip through Trough Canyon is 76 miles long and ends in Petersburg, West Virginia. Visitors can spot bald eagles along the way. The train ride is therefore a specific way to combine river scenery and wildlife viewing; the stated route goes to a destination outside Romney.
Historic Buildings in Romney
The Davis House was built in 1798 and is the only standing log cabin on its original property within the Town of Romney. The house provides a clear historical marker for local architecture. Tours of the Davis House can be arranged through the Hampshire County Public Library.
Taggart Hall dates to the 1790s. It was built by Frances Taggart (Tygart), a Quaker. For visitors who want to explore Romney on foot and learn about its history, Taggart Hall is a starting point for the town’s historic walking tour. The building thus connects a specific historical theme with a way to plan your stay as a walking tour.
Literary Hall is also part of Romney’s architectural history: the Literary Society of Romney built it in 1870. The society was originally founded as the Polemic Society of Romney on January 30, 1819. The Hampshire County Courthouse is another architectural landmark. Within the Town of Romney, it is the only example of Neo-Classical Revival architecture. These historic buildings therefore represent more than one era or architectural style.
Archaeological History and Fort Mill Ridge
At Indian Mound Cemetery, there is a mound about 15 feet in diameter and approximately seven feet high. Its construction is dated to a period between 550 BC and AD 1400, leaving its exact date uncertain. The measurements give the mound a tangible scale, while the broad date range leaves its archaeological context uncertain.
Nearby, Fort Mill Ridge offers another historical highlight: it has Civil War trenches, trails, and informational signs. Tours of the Fort Mill Ridge Civil War Museum can be arranged by calling 681-231-2400. If you plan to visit this stop, you can coordinate your museum visit directly using the contact information provided.
Choose the Focus of Your Stay
When choosing a vacation rental, you can first consider what kind of stay you’re looking for: historic buildings and a walking tour in Romney, or the ride through Trough Canyon, which ends in Petersburg. The two options have distinctly different characters. You can also enjoy river activities, from water sports to riverside campgrounds used seasonally.
Discover more destinations: Springfield, Purgitsville.
Back to the regional travel overview: Hampshire County.
