TOP 10 Prison visitation in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

John Brown's Fort, located at 814 Shenandoah Street in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is not just a historic building, but a symbol of resilience and determination. Originally built in 1848 as the Armory's fire engine and guard house, the fort gained fame during John Brown's ill-fated raid in 1859. Used as a prison, powder magazine, and supply house during the Civil War, the fort miraculously survived the destruction that befell many other Armory buildings. After being dismantled and displayed in Chicago, the fort was eventually returned to Harpers Ferry thanks to the efforts of journalist Kate Field and local resident Alexander Murphy. Rebuilt on the Murphy Farm, the fort later found its permanent home on the Storer College campus where it served as a museum and educational tool for students.