Beverly Historic District photo
ParkWest Virginia, US

Beverly Historic District

Step back in time at the Beverly Historic District, a captivating journey into the roots of West Virginia.

About

Step back in time at the Beverly Historic District, a captivating journey into the roots of West Virginia. This National Register Historic District showcases a remarkably preserved collection of over 50 buildings, offering a vivid architectural timeline from the late 18th to the late 19th centuries. It's a place where history isn't just told; it's tangible in every meticulously maintained facade and cobblestone path, reflecting Beverly's significant role as an early settlement and county seat.

Wander through a living museum of architectural styles, from early log cabins and I-Houses to elegant Queen Anne, Federal, and Victorian designs. Key landmarks include the stately 1808 Randolph County Courthouse, the historic Old Randolph County Jail, and the 1828 Blackman-Bosworth Store, which now houses the Randolph County Museum. The Beverly Heritage Center, combining four historic buildings, serves as a central hub, presenting exhibits on local history, the Civil War, and the vital Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike.

Visiting Beverly Historic District offers a memorable escape into a pivotal era of American history. It's an opportunity to explore the homes and commercial structures that witnessed early frontier life, the Civil War, and the development of West Virginia, making it an essential destination for those seeking a profound connection to the past. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

Beverly, initially settled around 1753 and chartered in 1790 as the county seat of Randolph County, Virginia (now West Virginia), quickly became an important economic and political center due to its strategic location along the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike. The town flourished in the decades leading up to the Civil War, attracting settlers and developing as a trade hub. During the Civil War, Beverly played a crucial role, witnessing one of the first Union victories at the Battle of Rich Mountain nearby, which secured Union control over the turnpike and contributed to the formation of West Virginia. Union troops occupied Beverly throughout much of the war, boarding soldiers in homes and establishing hospitals, though the town was raided four times by Confederate forces. After the war, Beverly slowly recovered, with new buildings constructed that completed the town's enduring historic appearance. The Beverly Historic District was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, with a boundary increase in 2014, recognizing its enduring historical and architectural significance.

What to do here

Take a self-guided walking tour through the district, following brochures from the Beverly Heritage Center.

* Explore the museums to delve deeper into local and Civil War history.

* Appreciate the diverse 19th-century architectural styles present in residential and commercial buildings.

* Visit the Beverly Cemetery (1768) to see historical grave markers.

Seasonal info

Fall: Features special events like the biennial Beverly Heritage Day, with home tours, crafts, music, and living history. October offers "Lantern Tours".

Winter: May offer a quiet, serene atmosphere, though outdoor walking tours might be chilly. Some indoor attractions like the Beverly Heritage Center remain open year-round.

Summer: Good for walking and exploring, potentially warmer temperatures.

Accessibility

Sidewalks are generally available for walking. While many historic buildings may have limited accessibility due to their age, the Beverly Heritage Center does offer a chair lift to its second-floor event hall.

Don't miss

1

Beverly Heritage Center

A central point for understanding the area's history, housed within multiple historic buildings.

2

Blackman-Bosworth Store (Randolph County Museum)

An 1828 building with exhibits on early settlement, Civil War artifacts, and local history.

3

Randolph County Courthouse (1808)

A significant architectural landmark reflecting the town's governmental past.

4

Beverly Public Square (1787)

The historic town center, still used for public events and featuring historical markers.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Start your visit at the Beverly Heritage Center to pick up a walking tour map and get an overview of the district's history.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring on foot to appreciate the architecture and sites.

Allow extra time to visit the Randolph County Museum, housed in the historic Blackman-Bosworth Store, for detailed exhibits.

Look for the diverse architectural styles, from early log constructions to more elaborate Victorian-era homes, which are a hallmark of the district.

If visiting in the fall, inquire about the "Lantern Tours" or the biennial Beverly Heritage Day for unique historical experiences.

Consider a short drive to the Rich Mountain Battlefield, a significant Civil War site just outside the district, for a complete historical perspective.

Frequently asked questions

The Beverly Historic District is historically significant because it preserves a wealth of 18th and 19th-century buildings that tell the story of one of West Virginia's earliest settlements. It served as a vital county seat and trade center along the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike and played a key role during the Civil War, including being near the site of the Battle of Rich Mountain.
Key attractions in the Beverly Historic District include the Beverly Heritage Center, the Blackman-Bosworth Store (now the Randolph County Museum), the 1808 Randolph County Courthouse, and various well-preserved historic homes like the Lemuel Chenoweth House. Visitors can also explore the Beverly Public Square and the historic Beverly Cemetery.
Yes, the Beverly Heritage Center serves as a visitor center within the district, offering information, exhibits, and often providing options for guided tours, including special "Lantern Tours" in October. Walking tour brochures are also available for self-guided exploration.

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