Jefferson County, West Virginia
Jefferson County sits at the easternmost edge of West Virginia, tucked into the Eastern Panhandle near the Maryland and Virginia borders. Harpers Ferry is the county’s biggest historic attraction, drawing Civil War enthusiasts and history lovers from far and wide.
But there’s much more here than battlefields and old buildings. The Shenandoah River winds through the county, offering beautiful scenery, fishing, kayaking, and plenty of outdoor opportunities. Shepherdstown is another must-see, known as one of West Virginia’s oldest communities and filled with historic charm.
The population is a mix of longtime residents and commuters who work in the Washington, D.C., area, thanks to the county’s convenient location. Summers can be hot, but autumn is something special, with colorful hillsides and apple orchards adding to the scenery.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Jefferson County |
| County Seat | Charles Town |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, Ranson, Bolivar |
| Interstates and Highways | US-340, WV-9, WV-51 |
| Etymology | Named after Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States |
| FIPS Code | 54-037 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 212 sq mi (Land: 210 sq mi; Water: 2 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 39.3058° N, 77.8825° W |
| Major Landmarks | Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Appalachian Trail, Jefferson County Museum |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Washington County, Maryland (North), Loudoun County, Virginia (East), Clarke County, Virginia (Southwest), Berkeley County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 62,000 |
