Berkeley County Is the second oldest county in West Virginia and was created by the House of Burgesses in1772 from the northern third of Fredrick County (Virginia). From the very beginning, this county was dominated by farmers and businessmen and destined to become an agricultural, manufacturing and transportation center.

The county seat was established in the colonial village of Martinsburg, named for Thomas Bryan Martin, Lord Fairfax's nephew and incorporated in 1778. Martinsburg served as the Eastern Panhandle's commercial center.

The B & O Railroad arrived by 1842 with construction of the Round House and shops. Within the first 100 days of the Civil War, the Eastern Panhandle experienced a taste of the terror and destruction of war. The Confederates captured and destroyed hundreds of steam engines & rail cars - rebels burned the engine house, machine shops and major railroad bridges in Martinsburg.

After the war was over, the B & O didn't waste any time rebuilding it's engine houses and shops, Horticulture and farming expanded, and before the turn of the century, woolen mills were built and limestone quarries businesses got there start.

Berkeley County has experienced tremendous economic growth over the last decade but still strives to retain its small town image. Its strategic location places it in a great business location that has attracted businesses like General Motors, DuPont, Bell Atlantic, Qubecor & Quad Graphic printing companies, Corning Glass and Sino-Swearing Aircraft company.

Recreation in Berkeley County has no boundaries. The four seasons allow residents to enjoy all types of recreation ranging from golf at five area golf courses, fishing hunting, white water rafting to ice skating and snow skiing.

Cultural and social life is abundant. The arts come in a variety of settings-from gallery shows and festivals to studio art tours, musical events and community theater. With fall foliage at its peak, the Mountain State Apple Festival is held in October celebrating apple harvest with activities for the whole family.

For a day, a getaway or for a lifetime, the scenery in Berkeley County is breathtaking. With the crisp, panoramic fall foliage to the blossoming springs and sunny summers.

Characterized by its traditional values, Berkeley Springs is a great place to raise a family. People are genuinely friendly and share a spirit that enables to community grow. Come see what makes our life styles so delightful, you'll be intrigued by the possibilities.