Stokes Nature Center | Logan

The Old Courthouse Museum is a historic building located in Martinsburg, West Virginia. It currently serves as a museum dedicated to local history.

Visual Characteristics

The building is a two-story brick structure with a prominent central clock tower. The brickwork is red, and the trim is painted white. The architectural style is predominantly Federal, with symmetrical window placement and a classical portico at the main entrance. The roof is hipped and covered in slate.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old Courthouse Museum is situated at 126 East King Street in downtown Martinsburg. It is approximately 0.2km East of the city center. On-street parking is available on King Street and surrounding avenues, though it is metered. The Martinsburg Transit Center, serving multiple bus routes, is located 0.5km West of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Old Courthouse was completed in 1801. It was designed by local architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, though his involvement is debated by some historians. The building's original purpose was to serve as the county courthouse for Berkeley County, a function it fulfilled for over 150 years.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits focus on the history of Berkeley County and Martinsburg, including displays on the Civil War, local industry, and prominent citizens. The museum offers guided tours on Saturdays at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Visitors can explore the former courtroom and jail cells.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor. Limited seating is provided within the exhibit areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the building. No food vendors are located on-site, but several restaurants are within a 0.1km radius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is late afternoon, when the sun illuminates the front facade. The museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. No specific tide or weather conditions are relevant for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A local legend claims that during the Civil War, Confederate soldiers attempted to steal the county treasury from the courthouse vault, but were thwarted by a quick-thinking clerk who flooded the vault with water. The vault's original locking mechanism is still on display.

Nearby Landmarks

• C&O Canal National Historical Park (0.8km North)
• Martinsburg Railroad Museum (0.3km Northwest)
• Belle Boyd House (0.4km Southwest)
• War Memorial Park (1.2km West)