Commemorate the 165th anniversary of John Brown’s Raid at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Date:
October 12, 2024

The National Park Service is hosting special events commemorating abolitionist John Brown's attempt to seize weapons from the U.S. Armory at Harpers Ferry in an effort to spark an anti-slavery uprising.

On Oct. 16, 1859, John Brown and 21 like-minded individuals-both African American and White-launched an attack on the U.S. Armory in Harpers Ferry, then part of Virginia, the largest slaveholding state in the Union. Brown aimed to arm an anti-slavery force to incite liberation movements. Though the raid was ended by U.S. Marines, it ignited tensions across the nation, influencing the 1860 presidential election and serving as a catalyst to the start of the Civil War.

Special Programs:
Oct. 19-20
Park rangers and the U.S. Marine Corps Historical Company will present "At All Times Ready," an immersive experience showcasing the raid and its impact on American civil rights history. Programs start at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., beginning on the Green in Lower Town and ending at the historic U.S. Armory fire engine house, known as John Brown's Fort. Reenactors will be available to answer questions from visitors at John Brown's Fort from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oct. 18, 25, and Dec. 2
A park ranger will lead "Clearing the Sky," a two-part program exploring John Brown's raid and the trial that divided a nation. The program begins at 11 a.m. in Lower Town and continues at 1:30 p.m. at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Charles Town, where Brown was tried. The tour concludes at the site of Brown's execution and the Jefferson County Museum, featuring artifacts such as the wagon that transported Brown to his hanging. The program covers approximately one mile on mostly flat ground, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

John Brown's complex legacy remains a powerful symbol in America's ongoing dialogue on race, justice, and the fight against oppression.

The park extends its gratitude to the Harpers Ferry Park Association, Jefferson County Museum, and Jefferson County Commission for their support in bringing "At All Times Ready" and "Clearing the Sky" to life.

Walk in the footsteps of history and explore the stories that shaped our nation. For more on Harpers Ferry NHP events, visit Calendar - Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).

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