Shepherdstown, West Virginia: A History Runs Through It

resources along the Shepherdstown riverfront;
identification of stakeholders and potential partners
who can assist in this effort; and identifying sources
of funding to support recommendations. During 18
months of research and discussion, the RRP work
groups explored a variety of ideas and were well
along on their goal of finalizing comprehensive
recommendations for the Corporation. However,
Mayor Jim Auxer recently requested that volunteer
efforts be redirected from the development of a
comprehensive plan for the riverfront to developing a
list of discrete improvement projects that the
Corporation could pursue in the near term. The RRP
members complied with his request and developed
some recommendations of discrete priority areas for
consideration by the Corporation; these are described
below. A more thorough elaboration on these ideas
and other potentially fruitful areas will be presented
in a longer version of this report, to follow. Because
of the time constraints posed by the Mayor‘s
redirection of effort, the RRP was unable to address
the third area of importance: identifying sources of
funding to support recommendations.
Shepherdstown, West Virginia: A History Runs
Through It
A Report to the Corporation of Shepherdstown
Town Council
Shepherdstown Riverfront Revitalization
Partnership w/ assistance from the NPS Rivers,
Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
SUMMARY
The National Park Service (NPS), through the Rivers,
Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
(RTCA), granted a 2009 request from the
Corporation of Shepherdstown to facilitate a process
led by local volunteers that would lead to
recommendations for restoration of historic, natural,
and recreational resources of the Shepherdstown
riverfront. This draft riverfront revitalization plan is
one result of that process. Riverfront resources
include the historic Mecklenburg Warehouse (and
surrounding riverfront park land and structures),
Rumsey Monument Park and the adjacent Cullison
Park. The Riverfront Revitalization Partnership
(RRP), encompassing the Corporation, RTCA, and
many local and area volunteers, was the result.
Building upon ideas and recommendations from
earlier reports, including ―Shepherdstown, Gem of
the Panhandle,‖ ―A Vision for the Shepherdstown
Area,‖ and the ―Shepherdstown Comprehensive
Plan,‖ a planning process evolved with several RRP
work groups committed to drafting comprehensive
recommendations for the Town Council and others to
consider. The recommendations address problems of
neglect over many years and include improved public
access, infrastructure
improvements/changes/implementation strategies,
and suggest physical connections between and among
the parks that help to define the character of the town.
All volunteers recognized the importance of these
resources to both the history of Shepherdstown and to
the contemporary experience and quality of life of
residents and visitors.
The Mayor also requested ideas on further
community engagement to assure ample opportunity
for all Corporation residents and stakeholders to
understand the problems and opportunities associated
with protecting and revitalizing the riverfront. The
RRP endorses the Mayor‘s request and recommends
convening a series of focus groups or charettes under
the guidance of a professional facilitator to sharpen
the understanding and support of the residents and
stakeholders on meritorious ideas. Combining the
efforts of the volunteer RRP work groups with
comprehensive resident and stakeholder engagement
will help create a stronger foundation for
revitalization of the riverfront and associated areas.
The work groups identified the following discrete
areas to improve opportunities for the use and
appreciation of Shepherdstown’s natural and
historic park areas by residents and visitors:
Coordinated by RTCA Program staff, RRP work
groups initially focused on three areas ; the
development of an overall strategy for revitalization
of Town-owned natural, historic and recreational
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Address important repair and maintenance
issues to Corporation-owned resources;
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Provide easier access to the Corporationowned park and resources by focusing on
pedestrians and bicyclists, but also by
addressing vehicular needs;
Improve the availability of park visitor
amenities (e.g., picnic tables, restroom
facilities and basic utilities);
Improve recreational opportunities and
appeal;
Improve existing landscaping and identify a
plan for long term maintenance of park
resources; and
Improve way-finding and
educational/interpretive signage for
important historical sites.
Rumsey Monument Park/Cullison Park
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Mecklenburg Warehouse
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Parking upgrades, directional signage
Educational and Interpretive Signage
Continued building stabilization
Fundraiser and Historic Gala
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Historic Water Gauge
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Owned by and responsibility of the U. S.
Geological Survey.
Prior approval from U. S. Geological Survey
required for superficial or major alterations.
Repainting – Potentially as an Art Project
Develop and install interpretive and
educational signage to explain history.
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Modern version of historic dam function
Install interpretive signage that explains the
adaptation of from a historic use to a modern
adaptation
Provides power needs to riverfront users at
no/low cost to the town
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Riverfront Park
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Signed and marked biking and pedestrian
route between the Shepherd University
football stadium within the University, and
High Street and the riverfront
Signed and marked biking and pedestrian
route from the Riverfront to Rumsey
Monument Park
Continuation of the sidewalk from High
Street along Princess Street to the riverfront
Pedestrian egress to and from the Shepherd
University Parking lot to Princess Street
near the intersection of Bones Wright Street
Repair the step on Mill Street that leads to
Cullison Park
Suggested strategy to improve communication
between residents, stakeholders and town officials.
Micro-Hydro Installation – Town Run Near Old
Mill Pond Dam Site
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Repair the limestone wall on North edge of
Rumsey Park overlooking the River
Fill rock quarry holes at both parks
Improve Horticultural management
(lilacs,etc.)
Install Commemorative plaques at lilac
grove and Rumsey Monument
Repair/replace Monument handrail
Add picnic tables and benches
Replace interpretive/educational displays
Connections
Within the above priority areas, RRP work
groups identified discrete “early success” projects,
including:
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Install Picnic tables and shelter
Clean up the boat ramp area
Invasive & noxious vegetation identification
and control/removal
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Commitment to a community outreach
process and timeline for completion by the
Mayor and Town Council. We suggest
focus groups or charettes under the guidance
of a professional facilitator.
Continued documentation and publicity of
participation opportunities
Continued use of project Web site to engage
and educate—see
http://www.ourwaterfront.org
(The Web site was created in response to a
request from the Town Planning and Zoning
Committee as a way to provide
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comprehensive information to residents and
stakeholders.)
Develop and implement a resident survey or
questionnaire to elicit feedback and ideas
Direct contacts to adjacent land owners
Host guided tours to familiarize stakeholders
with the resources and management
challenges
Continue to document and publicize efforts
to provide public participation opportunities
Develop and install an information display
in one or more public locations (Town Hall,
Entler Hotel, Shepherd University, Web
site) to explain and achieve:
1. Description of problems,
challenges and consequences of
doing nothing
2. Description of the significance of
the resources
3. Identification of the responsible
parties
4. Description of past efforts to
address the challenges
5. Explanation of the genesis of the
current effort
6. Exploration of ideas and options
for addressing the challenges
7. Promote continued and effective
engagement in additional planning
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Encourage visits to the
display through
communication efforts
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Background Information
o
Nearing its 250th anniversary, Shepherdstown West
Virginia is the oldest town in West Virginia,
predating the Revolutionary War. There are a wide
variety of important town owned historical and
natural resources that can be preserved and made
more accessible to the public. These unique assets
include the James Rumsey Monument Park and
Cullison Park; the historic Mecklenburg Warehouse,
and a variety of other historic river-focused resources
including old mill sites; modern river-focused natural
and recreation resources; and nearby parks, hiking
trails, scenic overlooks. A process that included
working with volunteer RRP teams of town and area
residents to review and analyze previous planning
efforts related to the project area, engage additional
stakeholders and interest groups, provide project
information to town officials and media was
undertaken to develop a strategy for a revitalized
Shepherdstown riverfront highlighting the
importance of these resources within their historic
and natural context while also encouraging continued
and enhanced public enjoyment, education and
conservation.
The objective of the Riverfront Revitalization
Partnership was to develop recommendations for the
Shepherdstown Town Council regarding
enhancements to the Corporation‘s public parks that
would accentuate their natural beauty, address
deterioration of the properties and structures, and
provide ease of access for residents and the visiting
public. The parks have the potential to serve a
variety of interests including:
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Recommending fundraising strategies and
ideas; and
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Family and group picnics
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Public events including outdoor concerts, 4th
of July Celebrations, boating events, river
related festivals, weddings and other events.
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Service as a river, environmental, and
history education laboratory for Shepherd
University, the Jefferson County School
System and other schools throughout the
area.
West Virginia Community Design Team
Shepherdstown, WV
May 2004
Developing a strategy for town approval that
will help preserve town owned historic and
natural resources, and strengthening their
potential for community and visitor
engagement and enjoyment;
Developing a variety of community, partner
and stakeholder engagement strategies;
Water and boating activities
“Shepherdstown, Gem of the Panhandle”
Goals of the project included:
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Information was given to the RRPwork teams from
preceding planning efforts as a starting point so they
could better understand earlier thoughts on the
possibilities for Shepherdstown‘s Riverfront and
associated resources. Those reports included
Shepherdstown – Gem of the Panhandle,
Shepherdstown Vision 20/20, and the Town‘s own
comprehensive plan. A synopsis of the findings of
those reports follows.
Shepherdstown is adjacent to, or in proximity of,
several National Park resources including the
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park,
Antietam National Battlefield and Harpers Ferry
National Historic Site. Connecting these area
National Park resources to the community of
Shepherdstown will help strengthen the area‘s
historic fabric and will provide the residents and
visitors greater access to and understanding of these
important historic and recreational resources that the
town has to offer.
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Identifying a staged implementation plan to
accomplish the recommendations.
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The riverfront area is a space that has great
potential to provide much needed
connection to the river and compliment to
the Tobacco Warehouse. The important
concept to keep in mind in designing natural
areas is to keep it simple. It would be a
mistake to over-commercialize this area, in
time destroying the qualities that make it a
special place. In addition to keeping it the
design simple, it would be important to
utilize existing structures and to keep the
materials consistent.
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The first step in designing the area is to take
an assessment of the activities taking place
there now, and to get some perspective as
to what activities may be wanted by the
community, and achievable given the
landscape. One obvious use of the space is
for boat access to the river. Throughout our
visit the CDT saw numerous trucks
unloading fishing boats, kayakers, and
canoeists. It is important that these vehicles
have a safe and uniform area to unload and
park while accessing the river.
“Illustration 7” demonstrates one way to
incorporate the Tobacco Warehouse as part
of a solution to maintaining the boat-river
access. The illustration suggests cutting
back the slight hillside at the lower level
entrance of the Warehouse, to make
greater room for truck and boat trailers.
This would include constructing a stone wall
with materials similar to that of the
warehouse. Another opportunity is to
create a natural pier. Near the river’s edge
there is a large pile of stones that has begun
to be overgrown with vegetation. These
stones could be used to create a pier, as in
Illustration 8 that would provide fishing
access or for access by kayakers.
Illustration 9 shows a possible improvement
to the footbridge across the run. It was very
sturdy, but to add a little more character, it
could be covered similar to the previous
bridge.
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There are also some existing structures that
could be used to create some amenities on
the riverfront. One area is the concrete wall
that used to be part of a dam. It is a neat
structure that with a little clearing and work
could become a nice bench for sitting near
the run and river, see Illustration 10.
Another opportunity is for picnic structures
and perhaps BBQ grills, See Illustration 11.
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One last improvement to the area would be
to clear some of the brush and vegetation
so that the area is more inviting in the
summer months. Vegetation such as box
elder, tree of heaven, and Japanese
knotweed are invasive species that should
be cleared out, which in turn would help
native species survive and open some space
in the sub-canopy.
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A number of people in the community
voiced the need for trails along the river.
While this would be an ideal situation, it
may not be the most feasible of possibilities.
During a brief walk along the river the CDT
members encountered serious, steep
grades. A steep grade makes trail
development near impossible, or highly
expensive. An additional concern with steep
trails is that of flooding and problems with
maintaining a flood-prone trail.”
Tourism – Recreation, History and Culture
Recreation is another area where Shepherdstown is
at the center of activity. There are several municipal
parks, Harpers Ferry National Park, Cacapon State
Park, C&O Canal Tow Path, all of which provide
wonderful experiences for a visitor. In addition to
parks there are a host of other activities: caving,
golfing, gambling, horse racing, riverboat, trails, and
mountain biking. This provides great potential for
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Shepherdstown to lure a diverse body of tourist to
dine, lodge, and shop in the downtown. The town
should investigate working with the broader tourism
development agencies to tap into these markets.
Section 3 F
Vision 2020 envisions a community in which open
space networks serve as a way6 to link smaller
parcels of open space so they can work together to
bring the benefits of connected open and green
space to all parts of the community. A community
which plans these networks publicly so that as many
private properties as possible will participate in
providing this important open space resource.
History and culture is another tourism area in which
Shepherdstown holds an edge. Shepherdstown itself
is a center for cultural experience. As a colonial
town, one of very few colonial towns in West
Virginia, it is a rare experience for a native person.
For visitors from Washington-Baltimore area it
provides an agrarian, small town experience that is
absent from the over developed D.C. Metro.
Shepherdstown is also proximate to numerous civil
war battlefields in West Virginia, Maryland and
Virginia. There are also festivals that draw tourists,
such as the May Day Festival and the Singer
Songwriter Festival. Lastly, the Shepherd University
also provides cultural experience in the form of
performing arts, lectures, and the bohemian lifestyle
that students create in a community. Keep in mind
that all these sites and activities fall under the realm
of heritage and cultural tourism. Heritage tourism is
the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry, in
which the tourists typically stay longer in the
community and in turn spend more money. In a
sense, Shepherdstown is at the center of cultural
heritage activities of three states.
G. Green Towns and Villages
Vision 2020 envisions a community which plans its
towns and villages so as to maximize the open and
green space within their boundaries and immediately
outside. A community which uses its traditional
towns and villages as examples in making places to
live characterized by greenness.
Shepherdstown Comprehensive Plan
th
August 14 , 2001
Bruce Drenning and Associates
Goals and Policies
5. Preserve, improve, increase and protect parks,
cemeteries, and other open green space areas.
The last tourism issue that Shepherdstown should
continue investing in is interpretation……it provides
key insight into the historical, ecological, or social
significance of a place.
6. Preserve, protect, maintain and utilize historic
properties and land use patterns, architectural
character and context, in a manner conducive to the
general benefit of the community.
Shepherdstown Vision 20/20
7. Maintain a cooperative working relationship with
Shepherd College to address mutual
community/college concerns.
Section – Summary of the Vision Document
Page 3
Section 1 Sustainable Development
12. Recognize Shepherdstown’s place in the
surrounding environment and take steps to protect,
preserve, and restore that environment.
Vision 20/20 envisions a community which
implements land use and management practices that
take natural systems into account just as it takes
tradition, economics, the law, and other technical
matters into account……
Transportation
Roads and Streets
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….The potential closure of North King Street and a
portion of Rocky Street by Shepherd College is a
serious issue that needs to be addressed
cooperatively.
Tobacco Warehouse, a historic stone mill building,
believed to be the tobacco warehouse built by a son
th
of the founder in the late 18 century, later used as a
mill and water plant, now being restored for use in
conjunction with riverside park facilities.
Key Recommendations p. 28
Clubs and organizations page 78
Strengthening the recreational advantages of being
close to attractions such as the tow path,
battlefields, Morgans’ Grove; provide better
pedestrian and way-finding connections as
opportunities arise.
The Mecklenburg and Potomac Garden Clubs have
been responsible for landscaping and maintenance
of Rumsey Park and the McMurran Hall grounds.
The Rumseyan Society commemorates James
Rumsey’s exploits. Shepherdstown manages the
Rumsey Park and monument.
Seeking good ideas for adaptive reuse of the Tobacco
Warehouse and external funding for improvements
and conversion.
Table 1. page 30
The recommended minimum standards for
Neighborhoods and Community Parks for Sh’town.
At present time Shepherdstwon has 4 neighborhood
parks which together provide about 5.1 acres per
1000 population. In addition to more than meeting
applicable acreage standards these parks are
admirably located to serve both existing and future
populations.
Historic Riverfront Resources Work Group
History
Chairs:
Historic District
Keith Alexander, Visiting Assistant Professor,
Shepherd University.
15. Page 67 Abraham Shepherd Tobacco Warehouse
– a stone building on lower Princess Street at the
Potomac River has been a warehouse, mill, and
water plant over the years.
Dale Walter, Friends of the Shepherdstown
Riverfront
The work team‘s efforts include conducting research
Greenness p. 69
into the historic and cultural resources along the
Shepherdstown Riverfront, highlighting their
Rumsey Park on a bluff overlooking the Potomac and
the adjacent 3.5 woodland called Cullison Park
constitute the largest park area within the
community. Bane – Harris is a playground park ………
importance within historic and natural context, and
making recommendations and suggesting strategies.
The group was primarily focused on an analysis of
Town owned resources, but work was done to place
Shepherdstown owns Riverside Park, a boat
launching facility and recreation area at the north
end of Princess Street.
these resources in context with the wide array of
historic resources in the local area.
Other Community Buildings include: Page 75
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Mission Charge – Identify important historic and
cultural resources along the Shepherdstown
Riverfront and provide suggestions for best methods
for preservation, protection and interpretation of
these resources.
Town Owned Historic Resources of the
Shepherdstown Riverfront
Mecklenburg Warehouse
“The Mecklenburg Tobacco Warehouse is
perhaps the oldest stone tobacco facility in
present day West Virginia (formerly
Virginia). The warehouse is a legacy of an
era in history when tobacco commerce
dictated governmental policy and
dominated world trade. Locating the
facility in Mecklenburg (now
Shepherdstown) was no doubt tied to
efforts to promote and develop the area,
even so far as to seek the seat of the
nation’s government (in 1790s). The
building’s use and adaptation over time
also speaks to the resiliency of the human
spirit.”
Recommendations
Several recommendations were developed for
potential use/reuse of the structure either by past
planning efforts, the current ―Riverfront
Revitalization Partnership‖ work team process or
from the Friends of the Shepherdstown Riverfront
Organization. This report concurs with other
recommendations that an adaptive re-use of the
structure through tenant occupancy is appropriate and
desired. Some of the suggested potential tenant types
are the following:
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—James Perry, Historian
C&O Canal National Historical Park
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The Mecklenburg Tobacco Warehouse is the only
standing commercial building on the riverfront and is
listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a
contributing structure. When the river level is low,
remnants of the stone wharf wall in front of the
warehouse are still visible. It is easy to visualize the
bustling riverfront from Shepherdstown‘s historic
past. Ferries and cargo flatboats transported goods
across the river to the Shepherdstown River Lock at
the C&O Canal (mile 72.5). After tobacco ceased to
be important to the region‘s economy, the warehouse
served as a storage center for corn, wheat and other
commodities that awaited transport to market. The
story of the Mecklenburg Tobacco Warehouse
continues to be researched by historians. The
stabilized building currently sits vacant waiting for
the next chapter in its history to unfold.
Use as a center for river activities
o River education center
o University rowing team
o Canoe, kayak, bike rental facility.
office space or apartments
artist workshops and/or art gallery space.
Stabilize building and provide educational
signage
The recommended ideal outcome is a use that
preserves historic character but also enhances use of
the riverfront area.
Challenges
Cost of extensive renovation of the structure –
estimates are up to $1.5 million for a complete
renovation. Scaled renovation costs would be
dependent upon tenant type and use. It is difficult to
estimate exact cost of renovation without identifying
the end use.
The lower floor of the building is in the flood plain
and has a high potential for flooding. Any reuse or
retrofitted activity would need to be compatible with
the potential for flooding.
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Suggested Next Steps
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Assure a structured Agreement between
Friends of Shepherdstown Riverfront and
the Corporation of Shepherdstown
describing roles, responsibilities and
suggested outcomes.
Develop a detailed identification and
agreement of compatible and appropriate
uses.
Develop an Adaptive Reuse ―Request for
Proposal‖
Develop a FOSR fundraising strategy
including potential application to the
Riverfront Revitalization Partnership.
Infrastructure improvements
o Parking upgrades, directional
signage
o Educational and Interpretive
Signage
o Continued building stabilization
Groups with interest in developing signage, artwork,
or other activities on, or in the vicinity of the gauge
will need to secure permission from the U. S.
Geological survey prior to proceeding. Letters
requesting permission to install signage or artwork
should be addressed to Mr. Jon Dillow (address
below), and he will transmit the requests up the line
and return the decision. The construction file for the
river gage is held at Frostburg, MD. Mr. Dillow
obtained the file, reviewed it, and sent to a member
of the Riverfront Revitalization Partnership scans of
several photographs from 1937 and 1938, at which
time the height of the stilling well was raised 8 feet
because it was overtopped during the flood of 1936.
Historic photos are available that reveal various
activities at or near the ferry ramp and toll house at
that time. The file can be accessed for additional
information.
Historic Water gage (early 20th century)
The river gage is owned by the U. S. Geological
Survey, and the Survey retains liability for the
structure.
It consists of a vertical stilling well topped by a gage
house, was constructed by the U. S. Geological
Survey, and was placed in service for continuous data
collection in 1928. The site was maintained in
service through September, 1953, when continuous
data collection ceased. The Geological Survey wants
to avoid injury to personnel who might approach it.
There has been interest in reinstating the river gage.
However, the U. S. Geological Survey has no plans
to occupy the stilling well or gage house. It has been
replaced by more contemporary technology for
monitoring stream flow.
Potential activities (with advance approval by U.
S. Geological Survey)
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Structural integrity analysis
Stabilization and Shoring of Gauge if
necessary
Repainting – Potentially as an Art Project
Develop and install interpretive and
educational signage
Small project, but needs recognition,
preservation, interpretation
o Cost: minimal - $1k
o Challenges: little aesthetic value,
but of significant historical
importance
minimal environmental impact on the local
ecosystem. Careful design is required to ensure the
system has a minimal impact on the local ecology. A
small amount of energy compromise may result, but
this will ensure that the project does not have an
effect on local fish stocks. Technology advances
(such as maintenance-free water intake equipment
and solid-state electrical equipment) ensure that these
systems are often more reliable in remote areas.
Often these systems are more dependable than the
local power main. If the latest electronic control
equipment, inverters and alternators are used, the
resultant power supply has the potential to be of
higher quality than the main electrical power grid.
Micro power development can be cost-intensive to
build and maintain. There are some fixed
maintenance costs. These costs vary according to site
location and material requirements.
Contact information follows:
Mr. Jonathon Dillow, Supervisory Hydrologist
Surface-Water Monitoring Team
USGS MD-DE-DC Water Science Center
5522 Research Park Drive
Baltimore, MD 21228
Office phone: 443-498-5524
Mobile: 443-743-0065
E-mail: [email protected]
Additional Historic Riverfront Resources Projects
Some Advantages
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It only takes a small amount of flow (as little
as two gallons per minute) or a drop as low
as two feet to generate electricity with micro
hydro. Electricity can be delivered as far as
a mile away to the location where it is being
used.
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Hydro produces a continuous supply of
electrical energy in comparison to other
small-scale renewable technologies. The
peak energy season is during the winter
months when large quantities of electricity
are required.
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Potential Micro-Hydro Installation near site of old
mill pond.
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Modern version of historic dam function
Install interpretive signage that explains the
adaptation from a historic use to a modern
technology.
Provides power needs to riverfront users at
no to low cost to the town.
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Energy output depends on two major factors: the
stream flow (how much water runs through the
system) and drop (or head), which is the vertical
distance the water will fall through the water turbine.
Most small-scale hydro systems require very little or
no reservoir in order to power the turbines. These
systems are commonly known as ‗run-of-river‘,
meaning the water will run straight through the
generator and back into the stream. This has a
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Microhydro is considered to function as a
‗run-of-river‘ system, meaning that the
water passing through the generator is
directed back into the stream with relatively
little impact on the surrounding
environment.
Building a small-scale hydro-power system
can cost from $1,000 – $20,000, depending
on site electricity requirements and location.
Maintenance fees are relatively small in
comparison to other technologies.
If your site produces a large amount of
excess energy, some power companies will
buy back your electricity overflow. You also
have the ability to supplement your level of
micro power with intake from the power
grid.
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Some Disadvantages
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The size and flow of small streams may
restrict future site expansion as the power
demand increases.
In many locations stream size will fluctuate
seasonally. During the summer months there
will likely be less flow and therefore less
power output. Advanced planning and
research will be needed to ensure adequate
energy requirements are met.
The ecological impact of small-scale hydro
is minimal; however the low-level
environmental effects must be taken into
consideration before construction begins.
Stream water will be diverted away from a
portion of the stream, and proper caution
must be exercised to ensure there will be no
damaging impact on the local ecology or
civil infrastructure.
Chairs:
Bill Howard, Executive Director, The
Downstream Project
Gary Heichel, Chair, Potomac Headwaters
Resource Conservation & Development
Region, Inc.
Other Historic Riverfront Resources Projects
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Town owned land along the Shepherdstown
Riverfront in proximity to the Mecklenburg
Warehouse includes a boat ramp, parking area, green
space and part of Town Run. The area is regularly
used by town residents and visitors for boating and
fishing, picnicking, and general water and nature
based recreational activities that have an impact. A
variety of invasive and noxious plant species occur
throughout the park area. Currently there are limited
visitor amenities such as picnic tables or shelter,
benches, or interpretive signage.
Develop Historical Interpretation of city
owned land near Mecklenburg Warehouse
and boat ramp
Event - Education Mill Day in the 90s – mill
society that would come to visit, important
resource in terms of tourism, history, town
Archeological Excavation – Led by
Shepherd University. Test and excavation
sites can be developed leading to
comprehensive mapping of the historic and
cultural resources on town owned property
at the riverfront.
Friends of Shepherdstown Riverfront Time
Period Fundraising Gala
The mission undertaken by the Riverfront AccessRecreation and Natural Resources work team was to
identify how the town owned park area along the
Potomac River is used, who the user groups are, what
changes might be suggested to improve the
experience for the user groups. The team identified
more than 75 non-profit and commercial entities in
the greater Shepherdstown area that might currently
use the area, have an interest in how it could be used
in the future. This list was reduced to approximately
15 non-profit groups and 3 commercial entities. Faceto-face meetings with these groups are proposed for
the future and a draft questionnaireto be used in
commencing th engagement was developed (see
below).
Riverfront Access – Recreation and Natural
Resources
Regulatory Environment Constraining and
Governing Access to and Use of the Potomac
Riverfront
11
Enhanced access to and use of land along the
Riverfront owned by the Corporation is subject to
oversight by various regulatory bodies, such as:
1.
2.
New recommendations for improving riverfront
access and use.

County and state regulations governing
riverfront development and use below the
mean low water mark, promulgated by the
Washington Co. (MD) government.


Federal regulations governing riverfront
development and use by the U. S. Army
Corps of Engineers.
3.
Location of 100 year flood plain along
Shepherdstown riverfront, established by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency.
4.
Limitation of established Shepherdstown
public waater intake facilities to any planed
improvements of the riverfront.
5.
Requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, for
any Riverfront modifications.
6.
Requirements for lighting, lighting
management (fugitive light) and other forms
of security associated with Riverfront
modifications.
7.
Requirement for additional liability
insurance coverage for the Corporation of
Shepherdstown.
8.
Conformity with applicable Corporation
zoning and other town governing body
regulations
9.
Conformity with applicable County zoning
regulations.


Lack of visitor amenities such as picnic tables shelters. Note the fire ring.
Riverfront Access Stakeholder and Citizen
Engagement Recommendation – Boat Ramp and
Riverfront Park Area
Endorsement of recommendations made in
preceding reports.
Recommendations for the Riverfront made in
preceding reports that are endorsed by the Riverfront
Access work team include:



Upgrade existing boat launch with on-site
turnaround and on-site vehicle and boat
trailer parking.
Establish remote boat launch parking.
Establish a pier or breakwater at the
riverfront to serve as a kayak and canoe
launch facility.
With leadership from Shepherd University,
establish a riverfront ―Potomac River
Environmental Laboratory‖ , perhaps in
collaboration with Maryland universities and
supporting non-governmental organizations
(Shepherd University has not been consulted
on this idea)
Establish a ―Potomac River Interpretive
Center‖ at or near the Riverfront.
Create a process to identify and engage users of the
town owned land in proximity to the boat ramp and
Mecklenburg Warehouse to determine who the
typical user is, who are potential users, how the area
is used and when and what changes are
recommended.
Develop and install interpretative,
educational, and safety signage at or along
river front.
Identify, locate, and manage invasive and
noxious vegetation.
Develop seating and picnic facilities at or
near the boat launch area.
Key Non Profit and Governmental Stakeholders

12
Conservation Fund, Freshwater Institute
(contact: Joe Hankins, director)


Local fishing groups
 Jefferson County Historical Society
Potomac Headwaters Resource
 U. S. Dept. of the Interior, NPS, Chesapeake
Conservation & Development Region, Inc.
& Ohio National Historic Park
 Potomac-Mecklenburg Garden Club
Commercial/Business Stakeholders
 Potomac Valley Audubon Society
 Shepherd University Institute of
 Shepherdstown Business Association
Environmental & Physical Sciences
 Kelly‘s White Fly Shoppe
 Friends of the Shepherdstown Riverfront
 Shepherdstown Pedal and Paddle
 Historic Shepherdstown Commission
 Kiwanis Club of Shepherdstown
 Rumesian Society
 Shepherdstown Men‘s Club
 Arts & Humanities Alliance of Jefferson
County
___________________________________________________________________________________
Draft Stakeholder Questionnaire
1.
Name, address, contact information of Organization
__________________________________________________________________
2.
Number of Members_______
3.
Is access to the Shepherdstown Potomac Riverfront important to your organization? ______Yes
______ No.
4.
If the answer to No. 3 is Yes, describe how your organization currently accesses the Potomac
Riverfront and describe how you use it.
5.
Would changes in access or types of services at the Potomac Riverfront make the riverfront more
useful to your organization? ______Yes ______No.
6.
If the answer to No. 5 is Yes, describe the changes in access or services that would make the
Riverfront more useful to your Organization.
7.
If the answer to No. 5 is Yes, would your Organization advocate for a plan that proposes some or all
of these changes before the Town Council?
_____Yes _____ No.
8.
If the answer to No. 7 is Yes, will your Organization designate representatives to help identify
funding sources to bring about Riverfront Revitalization? ____Yes ____ No.
9.
Please offer comments and suggestions about the Riverfront Revitalization Partnership objectives.
THANKS FOR YOUR VALUED PARTICIPATION
13
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
American Heritage River Designation
Two of the new ideas recommended above (and
perhaps others in this report) are intended to leverage
the designation of the Potomac River as an
―American Heritage River‖. This July 30, 1998,
designation by the President of the U. S, is intended
to:



Protect and restore water quality and living
resources,
Promote enjoyment of natural, recreational
and heritage assets, and
Encourage more citizen involvement in
community decision-making, and foster
sustainable economic development.
Heavy use causing denuded vegetation and erosion.
Only 16 rivers in the U. S. are sufficiently unique and
distinctive to enjoy the American Heritage River
Designation, To our knowledge, only three of the
American Heritage Rivers, the Hudson, the Upper
Mississippi, and the Potomac, flow beside university
campuses.
Single universities, or consortia of universities, have
successfully mobilized support and resources to
establish distinctive River-oriented education and
research facilities on the Hudson River, (Hudson
River Valley Institute, Maris University), and the
Mississippi River (National Great Rivers Research &
Education Center; Lewis & Clark Community
College and the University of Illinois), since the
American Heritage River designation. These
successes have occurred despite the fact that the
American Heritage Rivers Program is currently
unfunded by Congress. Inspiration and support were
found from other sources
Not only universities, but towns and cities in a
Heritage River Watershed, can leverage and
capitalize upon this unique and distinctive ―American
Heritage River‖ designation.
A variety of invasive, non-native and noxious vegetation species occur near the
riverfront around Mecklenburg Warehouse and the boat ramp including this dense
stand of bamboo.
14
Rumsey Monument Park/Cullison Park Work
Group
Chairs
Carl Moore, Board Member, Historic
Shepherdstown Commission
Doug Alexander, Past President, Shepherdstown
Rotary Club
The Shepherdstown parkland known as the Rumsey
Monument Park was originally built in 1915 by the
State of West Virginia to honor the invention of the
steamboat by local resident James Rumsey. The
original state appropriation for erecting the
monument was made in 1905. A Rumseyan Society
was formed and chartered as a legal corporation in
1906. Shortly thereafter, the society located and
purchased three parcels of land suitable for building a
monument to honor the accomplishments of inventor
Rumsey. The 2.6 acre parcel devoted to Rumsey
Monument Part is located at the northern terminus of
Mill Street on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River.
The location is believed to overlook a section of the
Potomac River that was used by James Rumsey to
conduct his steamboat experiments in 1787.
A set of steps leads up to the base and railings
provide safety and surround the monument base.
Historic records indicate that this state funded project
was completed in late 1915 for a cost of $15, 200.
The State of West Virginia maintained the James
Rumsey Monument Park until the early 1960s when
the assets of the park were turned over to the local
Rumseyan Society for care and maintenance. The
monument park was privately maintained for nearly
45 years by the Society and in 2005 was deeded to
the Town of Shepherdstown for care and
maintenance.
Vehicular access includes a loop road with several
parking spaces near the monument.
The monument consists of a 5 foot diameter Mount
Airy granite column that reaches a height of 75 feet.
The structure rests on a 40 foot square pedestal base
and has a polished granite globe that has the
continents displayed in relief atop the 5 foot column.
15
User groups and activities
Rumsey Monument - citizens walking (evenings),
picnicking on the grass, climbing course at Shepherd;
students in plant studies courses, weddings, cycling.
Potential uses - performance space for music and
theater
Several questions about Rumsey Park and Cullison
Park were explored by the work teams ranging from
vehicle and pedestrian access to safety issues. Some
of the issues identified either during the May 25 th
presentations, the October presentations or
subsequent follow-up include:
A stone wall separates Rumsey Park and Cullison
Park, and a stone wall runs along the bluff. In recent
years the Shepherdstown Rotary Club has worked on
a variety of projects to improve the park and
facilities.

Cullison Park is 2.5 acres abutting to and accessible
from Rumsey Park, by steps from Mill Street and by
way of Jones Alley.




Maintenance of plants and vegetation
including encroaching vegetation
obstructing the view shed, non-native
species, and historic plantings such as the
Lilac Grove.
Repair and maintenance issues including
missing railings near the monument, damage
to the stone wall running along the bluff,
vandalism and occasional graffiti, and the
need for an analysis of the structural
integrity of the Monument itself.
Water and Electric service
No restrooms.
Quarry holes that need to be filled for safety
reasons
Suggested projects are as follows:
The park is primarily wooded with a series of social
trails running through it.
A restoration of Rumsey Monument Park and
Cullison Park leading up to the 2015 Rumsey
Celebration will require a multi-year effort of
revitalization by a a variety of partners and citizens.
Automobile parking is currently limited and should
be kept to a minimum in any planning to encourage
pedestrian access to both park areas. The existing
parking should be modified for use by mobility
challenged users.

There is a children‘s playground area and a small
garden. There is no water service or restrooms in
either park.
16
The lilac grove at Rumsey Monument Park
was planted in honor or Shepherdstown
veterans who served in WWII, the Korean
War and the Vietnam Conflict. A vegetation
maintenance plan should be developed to












assure the grove remains vibrant and
accessible. To commemorate the veterans, a
plaque should be designed and installed
nearby with the names of the veterans from
the three military actions inscribed.
Working with the Shepherdstown Tree
Commission, encroaching brush and
vegetation in Rumsey Monument Park
should be cleared to improve sightlines and
keep damage that could be caused to the
monument (root penetration, falling trees) to
a minimum. A tree maintenance plan should
be developed to improve park views, and
improve security by opening sightlines
while maximizing shade and aesthetics.
Apply fill, grade, and seed the land area
directly south of the Rumsey Monument
base platform. Fill hole in the center of
Cullison Park to address safety issues and
add usable park space.
Following Shepherdstown Tree Commission
guidelines, periodically trim trees on the
river side of the monument (north facing) to
ensure that there is an unobstructed view of
the Potomac River.
Develop an improved way finding system.
Extend public water supply to the park.
Install a public restroom facility accessible
to both Rumsey Monument Park and
Cullison Park with an operation and
maintenance plan that matches usage
patterns.
Restore/repair the perimeter stone wall that
surrounds Rumsey Monument Park
Install handrails on the steps leading to the
monument
Repair/restore monument perimeter hand
rails
Using the backdrop of the exposed bedrock,
design and build a site appropriate
performance
Install additional steps on the North and
South sides of the monument to provide
additional seating and improved views and
aesthetics.
Contract with a qualified restoration
engineer to conduct an analysis of the




Rumsey Monument to evaluate the integrity
and stability of the structure.
Build and install picnic tables and seating
for users in both Rumsey Monument Park
and Cullison Park
Consider the installation of limited hour,
energy efficient and night sky protective
(down direction) lighting of walkways and
the Monument.
Install interpretive and educational signage
about the history of the structure and
significance of the park areas.
Consider the installation of flag poles for
U.S. and West Virginia flags.
Park Connections –Bringing it all Together
A work team focused on developing physical
linkages between the park resources of
Shepherdstown and the surrounding area by creating
a network of pedestrian and bicycle connections that
will facilitate public access and encourage use of
Shepherdstown Historic Riverfront Resources.
Connections Work Group
Committee Members:
John Loeffler ~ Co-chair: Financial Advisor
Dick Klein ~ Co-chair: Civil Engineer
Dan Yana: Director of Facilities Management
for Shepherd University
Steve Ayraud: Retired Facilities Manager for
the University of California, Santa Cruz
Craig Winkel: Retired Surgeon
John Snyder: Business Owner and Riverfront
property owner
Frank Hill: Attorney and CPA
Roger Munro: In-Town Property Owner
17
Process Objective:
Shepherdstown is blessed with public owned parks
that front on the Potomac River - the boat landing at
the bottom of Princess Street and the adjoining
property surrounding the Mecklenburg Waterhouse;
as well as the Rumsey Monument and Cullison Parks
one block away located on Mill Street. Despite the
appeal of waterfront property and the natural beauty
of these sites, they remain largely under-utilized by
the general public owing to a number of factors
including:
 Varying stages of disrepair
 Lack of amenities, i.e. tables, benches,
restroom facilities, utilities
 Limited recreational appeal
 Minimal landscaping and lack of on-going
care
 Directional signage
 Difficult to access by foot or bicycle and
inadequate on-site parking
1.
The upgraded access to the C&O
Canal/Towpath from Shepherdstown was
completed with the opening of the new
James Rumsey Bridge in 2004. However,
heading back into Shepherdstown from the
Maryland side, the improvements effectively
end at the crosswalk on Duke Street at the
Shepherd Ram Football Stadium. In
addition, there is no direct access down to
the waterfront from the James Rumsey
Bridge landing. An absence of signage
leaves prospective hikers and bikers
interested in visiting downtown
Shepherdstown or the Riverfront at a loss.
2.
Public access from High Street down to the
Mecklenburg Warehouse and the Boat
Ramp is discouraged by the lack of a safe
walkway along Princess Street to the water.
There is a short stretch of sidewalk on the
east side of Princess Street beginning at
High; but it ends abruptly just in front of the
last home on the right at the end of the block
at a height of some 6‘ above the road surface
and is therefore unusable without incurring
significant excavation and rock removal
costs. Princess Street does accommodate
vehicular traffic but the street narrows
noticeably from the juncture of Bones
Wright Street as it passes the Water Plant on
the way to the river. This is particularly
troublesome for pedestrians whose only
option is to walk in the street. Furthermore,
parking at the riverfront is unmarked and
will accommodate a very limited number of
vehicles – especially problematic when the
Boat Ramp is experiencing heavy use.
Pickup trucks with their boat trailers
consume most all of the available space
virtually excluding other users. In addition,
once there the visitor will find there are no
amenities such as picnic tables, benches,
walkways along the river, etc. There is an
absence of signage, as well.
3.
Public access to Rumsey/Cullison Park is
facilitated by the Town‘s sidewalk system
leading to a sidewalk from High along Mill
Street to Rumsey & Cullison Parks. There
The Connections Committee focused on the final
bullet point; making these parks accessible on foot
and by bicycle and the inadequacies of on-site
parking. We have concluded that, in the overall
revitalization plan, providing safe, convenient access
is the logical starting point for the revitalizing efforts
that follow.
The challenge was how to conveniently link the area
leading from the C&O Canal across the James
Rumsey Bridge into Shepherdstown, to the
Riverfront at the Mecklenburg Warehouse/Boat
Ramp, and to Rumsey/Cullison Parks. While the
focus of the discussion that follows is on how to get
to the riverfront properties, the Committee members
recognized that the reverse flow is an important
consideration, as well, since many local people take
advantage of the Canal and Towpath.
The Committee examined numerous alternatives to
identify solutions taking into consideration the ease
of access, existing roads and sidewalks, local
community impact and the challenging terrain. The
final recommendations affect only Town or Shepherd
University owned properties or Rights-of-Way.
Observations:
The following is a summary of the identified
challenges:
18
are steps up from the sidewalk into Cullison
but they could use some improvement.
Parking at Rumsey is limited to four spaces
within the Park, of which one is designated
for handicapped and only fourteen metered
spaces along Mill Street. There is no
designated parking within Cullison. Visitors
park on the grass. It appears parking is
adequate for casual weekday usage but
seriously lacking for larger events, such as
weddings, concerts and the 4th of July.
Moreover, signage needs improvement.
4.
downtown Shepherdstown, including its parks and
historic resources.
Shepherd University has announced plans to
construct a pedestrian tunnel under Duke Street at the
present site of the crosswalk. If the project is
approved, it is expected to include a sidewalk on the
east side of Duke Street from the crosswalk to High
Street thereby addressing the issue.
Install signage to help visitors find their way to the
downtown area.
Cost: Sidewalk included in the SU pedestrian tunnel
funding.
Near-site supplemental parking is available
in the Shepherd University lot at the corners
of High and Princess Streets. However, the
corner of the north end of the lot at Bones
Wright and Princess Street is 15‘to 20‘
above road grade forcing individuals to walk
back to High Street before proceeding to
their destination.
B. Connect James Rumsey Bridge to the
Riverfront via Shepherd University’s East
Campus
Provide pavement markings and signage to lead
people on foot and bicycles from James Rumsey
Bridge through the Shepherd University East Campus
to Bones Wright and Princess Streets.
In short, usage of the Riverfront properties by people
on foot or bikes is discouraged due to the absence of
safe, convenient connecting sidewalks or footpaths.
Traffic must contend with boaters for parking at the
Boat Landing,; and must compete for seriously
limited on-site/near-site parking at Rumsey and
Cullison Parks for public events.
This represents the shortest in-town route to the
Riverfront from the Canal/Towpath. The layout of
the route from Duke Street through the campus to
Bones Wright is to be planned in consultation with
Shepherd U.
Cost: Signage and pavement markings
Recommendations:
C. Provide for pedestrian/hiker access along
Princess Street to the waterfront
The Committee members recommend a network
of sidewalks and footpaths that flows
uninterrupted and smoothly from James Rumsey
Bridge to the Riverfront and then on to
Rumsey/Cullison Parks. We have included a
phasing schedule for implementation along with
the estimated preliminary construction costs for
such a network.
As noted under ―Observations‖ above, pedestrians
and hikers must share the Princess Street roadway
with motor vehicles from High Street to the water.
The Committee recommends the following:
Construct a sidewalk from High Street along the west
side of Princess Street bounding the parking lot to
Bones Wright. Continue sidewalk construction on
the opposite or east side of Princess from Bones
Wright to the abandoned town water tank at which
point the sidewalk angles away from the road toward
Town Run passing between the abandoned water tank
and the Water Plant.
A. Connect the Canal and Towpath to the Town
and the Riverfront
Extend the sidewalk and bike lane from the Ram
Stadium crosswalk along Duke Street to High Street.
This extension would encourage visitors to explore
Construct concrete stairway from water tank to the
lower level behind Water Plant adjacent to the Town
19
Run and extend sidewalk through Water Plant to
vicinity of the Tobacco Warehouse – terminus to be
determined as part of the area landscape plan. Erect
new fence through Water Plant separating plant from
pedestrians.
the Bones Wright right-of-way to connect Princess
Street with Mill Street.
The footbridge accomplishes a couple of important
objectives. First, it effectively connects the SU
parking lot to the parks. In combination with the
egresses from the north end of the SU parking lot as
recommended above, the footbridge would put
individuals within a one to two block walk to
Rumsey and Cullison.
Second, the stretch of the Town Run from High
Street to the river flows through a gorge exhibiting
old mills, building foundations and other historic
relics from the founding days of Shepherdstown. A
footbridge would offer a rare and unique view of the
Town Run as it cascades down toward the river, as
well as the natural beauty of the surrounding
landscape.
The Committee also recommends the construction of
a new wooden foot bridge across Town Run at the
Mecklenburg Warehouse site.
D. Facilitate egress from the north end of the
Shepherd University parking lot to Bones
Wright/Princess Streets
The need for the individuals using the SU parking lot
to return to High Street before heading to their
destination can be avoided with the construction of a
sidewalk from the back, northwestern corner of the
lot down the slope along Bones Wright to Princess
Street.
F. Address the inadequacy of on-site parking
facilities at the Rumsey/Cullison parks ~
Continued
On the northeastern corner of the lot, build concrete
steps leading down to the road bed at the juncture of
Princess and Bones Wright.
The Committee believes construction of the
footbridge offers an attractive, sustainable solution to
the parking dilemma at the Riverfront, and especially
for Rumsey and Cullison Parks. The construction
can be done in such a way as to be visually
appealing.
E. Address the inadequate of on-site parking at
Rumsey and Cullison Parks
Use of the parks for ―events‖ is discouraged by the
shortage of on-site/near-site parking. Addressing the
parking issue is central to encouraging a good turnout for public events. The SU parking lot at High &
Princess is a potentially convenient solution to a
significant portion of the inadequate on-site ―event‖
parking. The Committee recommends that a
footbridge be constructed over Town Run utilizing
It is particularly important to provide handicapped
parking in compliance with ADA guidelines to assure
outside sources of funding. Determining the number
of on-site parking spaces will depend upon whether
the footbridge across the Town Run over the Bones
20
Wright right-of-way is completed or not. The bridge
will substantially reduce the number of spaces needed
within the confines Rumsey/Cullison. If the bridge is
not built, preliminary estimates are that parking for as
many as 94 vehicles (not a recommendation – simply
projected maximum capacity) could be conveniently
sited within Cullison Park in areas not currently user
friendly, i.e. the quarry holes. In such an event, an
effort should be made to use the existing contours of
the grounds within Cullison to minimize the visual
impact of parked cars and to work with Norfolk &
Southern Railroad to confirm boundaries and resolve
safety issues.
granting of` Rights-of-Way from the owner of the
Toll House and Shepherd University.
We reviewed the deed of conveyance from the
Cullison family and find that there are no deed
restrictions. The park is to be used in a manner to
benefit the general public under the supervision of
the Shepherdstown Parks & Recreation
―Commission‖ (sic).
G. Connecting James Rumsey Bridge directly to
the Riverfront
Currently there is an extra wide ramp from the
Canal/Towpath on the Maryland side of the bridge to
the road/bridge level. Construct a similar ramp or
switch-back steps on the Shepherdstown side of the
bridge down to the riverfront that would allow
visitors easy, direct access to the river. This
recommendation is a low priority and should be
contemplated only after most of the other
revitalization improvements have been completed.
Phasing-in the Recommendations:
The Committee recommends that implementation
begin by addressing access to the Riverfront via
Princess Street. This includes constructing the
sidewalk from High Street to the water, and the
sidewalk and steps at the north end of the Shepherd
U. parking lot.
In the meantime, however, we do recommend that a
permanent pathway be constructed along the
shoreline from the Boat Landing toward the Rumsey
Bridge. How far the path extends in this direction
would be a subject for discussion. It would
effectively expand the ―public‖ shoreline and offer
visitors the opportunity to explore beyond the limited
water frontage in the area of the Mecklenburg
Warehouse.
The Committee suggests the next issue to tackle is
parking for Rumsey/Cullison. The key decision will
be the approval of the construction of the footbridge
at Bones Wright over the Town Run. The ultimate
parking configuration within Rumsey/Cullison hinges
on the fate of the footbridge.
Finally, we recommend the Town explore the rightsof-way along the shoreline between the Boat Landing
and James Rumsey Bridge in anticipation of the
construction of a pathway along the water‘s edge.
The path would have to be constructed to withstand
repeated flooding, with the on-going maintenance
limited to the occasional removal of debris. It must
be situated above the low water mark to avoid the
need for Maryland approval. And it will require the
21
The above recommendations assume that the
sidewalk connecting the crosswalk on Duke Street to
High Street will be completed in conjunction with the
planned SU pedestrian tunnel.
In addition, assuming the Princess Street
recommendations are approved, the Town should
initiate conversations with Shepherd University
regarding an identifiable hiking and biking pathway
through the East Campus connecting Duke Street to
Princess Street at Bones Wright.
In the end, we believe a riverfront is a terrible thing
to waste . . . We hope our work will be helpful the
Town Council in regaining our riverfront heritage.
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