Virginius Island

Virginius Island is part of Harper's Ferry National Historical Park. It is located on the Shenandoah River. It was once separated from the main part of Harper's Ferry by a river channel, then a canal. In the years before the Civil War, the island was a thriving industrial area, built on water power. At its peak in 1850, upwards of 180 people lived in 20 to 28 houses on the 13-acre island.

A once thriving island

Footbridge (Randolph Bridge) to Virginius Island

Ruins of the Shenandoah Pulp Mill

Inlet arches

More ruins

The island suffered greatly during the Civil War. Floods also proved too devastating to overcome. The last inhabitants left the island in 1936. Nature has now reclaimed the island. No structures remain, but there are plenty of ruins to explore. Not to mention a beautiful shoreline.

The Shenandoah was a great source of power.

Under the arch

Ty enjoying the island

The Virginius Island trail offered some great views of the Shenandoah River, including rapids. Ty was able to get in the water at several places. I needed to make sure the water wasn't moving too fast for him. Didn't want my pup to wash away!

Rippling waters of the Shenandoah

So many scenic views of the Shenandoah

Shenandoah River Bridge

"Seashells" from the river