Lantern Tour: Strange Story of Harpers Ferry

Irish immigrant Joseph Barry could be called the Forrest Gump of 19th-century Harpers Ferry. In his book The Strange Story of Harpers Ferry, first published in 1903, he gives first-person accounts of John Brown’s Raid, the Civil War, and historic floods. This lantern tour will relay some of his most colorful, tragic, and strange tales.

Hike leader Cathy Baldau is the executive director of the Harper Ferry Park Association. In her previous position as publications specialist, she edited and managed production of eight books on the history of Harpers Ferry.

Short walk along uneven sidewalks, grass, and paths. Park and meet at the Train Station. (Note: allow extra time to park in case the Train Station lot is full. October evenings are busy in Harpers Ferry.) Bring a flashlight or lantern.