I attended a high school in a small town that gained national recognition as being halfway between Monkeys Eyebrow and Possum Trot. No kidding! Our doctor shared this little fact with the world on David Letterman. No one really knows where that halfway point is exactly but it was worthy of national TV. That was a time when we laughed with others and were less likely to take offense at every slight. It was a time and an area where dogs roamed free, summoned home for dinner by the ringing of a bell; people were considered neighbors for miles and everyone knew everyone’s kids so we didn’t act up - much.

That was a long time ago. I remember it fondly as a community. This idea of community is what we have in Hedgesville, West Virginia this very day. Many newcomers ask, “Where is Hedgesville?” Well, Hedgesville is that little West Virginia town on Route 9 approximately halfway between Martinsburg and Berkeley Springs. That doesn’t quite have the ring that will carry it to David Letterman but it is sufficient to give one a sense of the location. As told by Jim Poisel, men once traveled by horse and buggy from the train up Route 901 to the old homes in Hedgesville for a little R&R. Those homes still stand today though not everything stays the same of course. The road to Hedgesville is now paved and buggies aren’t common; it is however once again worth the trip or a stop if you’re traveling through.

On the weekend, consider stopping at the Dillon Farm Museum right across from the high school. With everyday free admission – it’s rare to find anything that’s free these days - one can walk back through years of farm equipment and just wonder, “How did they manage to do it with such crude tools?” It’s simply amazing to think of the fortitude those before us had.

What is really special in Hedgesville is the definite sense of community and the appreciation for days long gone when things were made piece by piece instead of through a production facility. It was a day when we took time to notice the detail. Kristin Nelson and other shop owners in Historic Hedgesville will still take time. After visiting the Farm Museum, travel west on Route 9 past the Food Lion and on into town where new shops have sprung up within the walls of some of the old houses. North Mountain Arts, a local favorite, is sure to have that fine and unique gift you’ve been looking for. The artwork includes handmade cards, colorful jewelry, pottery, wooden bowls, wall hangings, and beautiful figurines. In the back, Wendy has a treasured collection of antiques that is worth consideration. But it doesn’t end there – wander North on Mary Street to Kingfish’s Antiques where Rick Everhart has filled an 1860’s home with a wide selection of antique furniture, glassware, along with many miscellaneous pieces crafted years ago. Some are primitive while other pieces have been refinished for a cleaner or more modern appearance. Or South on Mary Street, The Mechling Knit Shoppe has opened for business; word has it that knitting is back in vogue. Classes are available for those who have yet to learn or need brushing up. Beware – I have heard it can be addictive. There’s more! – Barbara has a wide selection of Arts, Crafts and Things for ALL seasons at Persnickety Place on Main and Mt. Zion Street. Her place is chock full of handcrafted items. Plus alongside Persnickety Place she is serving soft ice cream – YUM YUM – at the Ice Creamery! This is an old time favorite for young and old alike.

It does not matter whether you come out to get away from it all or come to visit family & friends – remember to stop off in Historic Hedgesville – it’s halfway between Martinsburg and Berkeley Springs at the intersection of Routes 9 and 901. We are not just off the interstate though certainly worth the travel a few miles down a two lane road. On your way – slow down; think back to a time of hard work and community spirit when it was a few miles to the neighbors. We’ll provide that neighborly welcome when you get here. Print Add a Comment Back to All Articles