West Virginia Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Charles Town, West Virginia

Population: 2,907

Located in Jefferson County

Welcome to Charles Town, West Virginia Surveyed by George Washington, Torn by Civil War Charles Town West Virginia, today a picturesque collection of homes, churches and public buildings, was founded in 1786 by an act of the Virginia Legislature on land provided by Charles Washington, youngest brother of the first President of the United States. Today it is the county seat of Jefferson County, one of the fastest growing counties in West Virginia, and only 65 miles from Washington DC and Baltimore.

Since the late 1700's when proud farmers would race their horses through the center of town, horse racing has been important to Charles Town. Today - 200 years later - instead of cheering for your favorite from a dusty street corner, you can relax in an air-conditioned clubhouse and enjoy a meal in one of the best restaurants in Jefferson County. For a great mix of live racing and simulcast from around the country, you can't beat the excitement of Charles Town Races.

To learn more about local history stop in at the Jefferson County Museum, housed in the library at 200 East Washington Street in Charles Town. Therein are several thousand artifacts, including papers relating to the original town survey conducted by Charles Washington. Of special interest are the cot on which John Brown lay while being tried (he was wounded during his infamous raid at Harpers Ferry) and the wagon in which he rode to his execution. The Civil War is illustrated through such items as the Confederate battle flag of "Stuart's Horse Artillery" and other mementos belonging to Colonel Roger P. Chew, C.S.A., a resident of Charles Town.