From River Town to Ratification: How Harpers Ferry Helped Build a Nation - July 16, 2026

Explore the rich stories of our historic town and gain a deeper appreciation of Harpers Ferry’s place in the nation’s story during our History on Tap series. Step into the warm, inviting ambiance of Alstadts Ale House and immerse yourself in engaging discussions on a range of fascinating history.

How did a small town in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, along the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, help forge what became the Constitution of the United States? Combine westward expansion, movement of goods and people, taxation, land ownership, the Articles of Confederation, and debates over states’ rights. Then add the influence of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington into the mixture. The result was a set of ideas that would redefine the nation and establish a government built “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

Join Certified Park Guide Andrew Corl on a journey through history as he traces the American story from independence to the creation of the Constitution, and discover how the roaring waters of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers weren’t just a backdrop to history. They were forces that influenced the economic, political, and strategic realities of a young nation.

Come for the history and stay for the camaraderie, with delicious food, handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of beer and wine available for purchase. Seating is limited, so registration is recommended, and tables may be shared with fellow attendees.