Berkeley County, West Virginia is located in the Eastern Panhandle region of the state. The county is bordered by Jefferson County to the north, Morgan County to the east, Hampshire County to the south, and Washington County, Maryland to the west. Berkeley County covers an area of 431 square miles and has a population of more than 117,000 people.
The terrain of Berkeley County is mostly hilly and mountainous with elevations ranging from 300 to 2,400 feet above sea level. The majority of the county is part of the Appalachian Mountains range with numerous ridges and peaks including Backbone Mountain (2,394 ft) and Millville Knob (2,293 ft). The eastern portion of Berkeley County is part of the Valley and Ridge province while its western section belongs to the Allegheny Plateau region.
The climate in Berkeley County is humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Average high temperatures range from 42°F in January to 86°F in July while average low temperatures range from 20°F in January to 65°F in July. Precipitation levels are generally moderate throughout the year averaging around 45 inches per year with snowfall averaging around 20 inches per year.
Berkeley county offers a diverse landscape with a mix of rural farmland dotted with small towns as well as larger cities such as Martinsburg which serves as its county seat. There are several rivers that flow through the county including Opequon Creek which divides it into two distinct regions; North Berkeley which consists mainly of rural farmland while South Berkeley consists mainly of residential neighborhoods and small towns such as Hedgesville and Inwood. There are also numerous parks located throughout Berkeley county providing recreational opportunities for residents such as hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, camping sites etc… Additionally there are several historical sites located within its borders such as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park which offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history dating back over 200 years ago when it served as one of America’s most important transportation hubs during its early years.
Country seat and other main cities of Berkeley County, West Virginia
Berkeley County is located in West Virginia and is home to a population of more than 117,000 people. The county seat is Martinsburg, which is located in the eastern portion of the county and serves as its administrative center. With a population of 17,227 people, Martinsburg is the largest city in Berkeley County. It’s home to numerous historic sites including the Belle Boyd House and Museum, the Martinsburg Roundhouse Museum, and several buildings from the 19th century that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
According to Countryaah, other cities located throughout Berkeley County include Inwood which has a population of 1,660 people and serves as a major transportation hub due to its close proximity to Interstate 81. Hedgesville also has a population of 1,660 people and is known for its historic buildings such as the Hedgesville Town Hall which was built in 1891.
Bunker Hill has an estimated population of 855 people and is home to several Civil War sites including Bunker Hill Battlefield Park. Falling Waters has an estimated population of 577 people while Gerrardstown has an estimated population 441 people. Both towns have numerous historical sites including Gerrardstown Presbyterian Church which was built in 1790 and served as a hospital during both World War I & II respectively.
Finally there’s Bunker Hill with an estimated population of 855 people and it’s home to several Civil War sites including Bunker Hill Battlefield Park which features monuments dedicated to both Union & Confederate soldiers who fought in that battle during 1863.
Put together these small towns form what makes up Berkeley County; offering visitors & residents alike a glimpse into its rich history with numerous historical sites & museums scattered throughout its landscape as well as plenty recreational opportunities provided by its various parks & riverside trails perfect for those looking for some outdoor fun!
History of Berkeley County, West Virginia
Berkeley County, West Virginia is located in the Eastern Panhandle region of the state and is home to a population of over 117,000 people. The county seat is Martinsburg, which is located in the eastern portion of the county and serves as its administrative center. With a population of 17,227 people, Martinsburg is the largest city in Berkeley County.
The area now known as Berkeley County was first settled by Europeans in 1730 when John Van Meter purchased 200 acres from Thomas Fairfax, 6th Lord Fairfax of Cameron. The county was officially established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly on March 10th, 1772 and was named for Norborne Berkeley, 4th Baron Botetourt who served as Governor of Virginia from 1768-1770.
At the start of the American Revolutionary War Berkeley County sided with the Continental Congress and its militia fought at both the Battle of Bunker Hill and Saratoga during 1777. Later on during 1863 Berkeley County saw action once again when it played host to two major engagements during the Civil War; namely at Martinsburg during June 15th & 16th and at Falling Waters on July 2nd & 3rd respectively.
Berkeley County has numerous historic sites including Belle Boyd House and Museum which served as a headquarters for Confederate spies during 1861-1862; Martinsburg Roundhouse Museum which celebrates its local railroad heritage; several buildings from 19th century that are listed on National Register of Historic Places; Hedgesville Town Hall which was built in 1891; Gerrardstown Presbyterian Church which was built in 1790 and served as hospital during both World War I & II respectively; Bunker Hill Battlefield Park which features monuments dedicated to both Union & Confederate soldiers who fought there 1863.
Today visitors & residents alike can enjoy numerous recreational opportunities provided by various parks & riverside trails scattered throughout Berkeley County perfect for those looking for some outdoor fun! In addition to this there’s plenty other attractions such as wineries, museums, art galleries or even just taking stroll through one of its quaint downtown districts!
Economy of Berkeley County, West Virginia
Berkeley County, West Virginia is a thriving county located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The county is home to over 117,000 people and has a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, service industries and tourism. Agriculture is the mainstay of Berkeley County’s economy with the largest agricultural sector being poultry production. Other agricultural products include corn, soybeans, hay, wheat and fruits. Manufacturing is a major contributor to Berkeley County’s economy with many companies producing furniture and other wood products as well as metal products for use in the automotive industry. Service industries such as health care and education are important components of Berkeley County’s economy with many employers located in the area providing jobs to local residents. Tourism has also become an important part of Berkeley County’s economy with visitors coming from all over the United States to experience its beautiful scenery and enjoy its recreational activities such as hiking, camping and fishing. The county also boasts numerous festivals throughout the year that draw tourists from around the region. With its diverse economic base and strong job market, Berkeley County has become an attractive place for businesses to locate or expand their operations.
