Harpers Ferry National Historical Park to Mark John Brown’s Raid With October Programs

News Release Date: September 17, 2026
Contact:NCR Communications

HARPERS FERRY, W.Va. - Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will mark the 167th anniversary of John Brown's 1859 raid on the U.S. Armory with three public programs in October exploring the people, events and consequences of the raid.

Programs October 10-18 include ranger-led walks and talks, a five-mile evening hike following the route Brown and his "Provisional Army" took from Kennedy Farm to Harpers Ferry, and two days of living-history interpretation. Together, the programs examine an event that intensified the national debate over slavery and deepened the sectional crisis before the Civil War.

Discover the people, choices and sacrifices that forever changed the course of American history. Walk the historic streets, hear stories of extraordinary courage and conviction, and meet the people who bring this defining moment to life.

Three Ways to Explore the Raid and Its Legacy

Saturday, Oct. 10, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sacrifices & Circumstances

Join park rangers to explore the people, choices and consequences of John Brown's Raid. Take a guided walking tour at 11 a.m. or 3 p.m., starting at John Brown's Fort, or attend a program in Arsenal Square at 1 p.m. Each program examines how the raid affected people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Friday, Oct. 16, 5 p.m. to midnight. Proceed to the Ferry: John Brown's March Commemoration

Follow the same 5-mile route Brown and his "Provisional Army" traveled from the Kennedy Farm in Washington County, Maryland, to Harpers Ferry. Retired park Chief Historian Dennis Frye will lead this special evening hike. The event includes shuttle service, historical programs, music and an authentic period meal.

Special registration is required for this October 16 event and space is limited. The cost is $200. Register at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/proceed-to-the-ferry-john-browns-march-commemoration.

The Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau co-sponsors the event, with support from the Shepherd University Civil War Center; Washington County, Maryland, Sheriff's Office; Washington County Emergency Medical Services; Washington County Engineering Department; and Washington County Highway Department.

Saturday, Oct. 17, and Sunday, Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. At All Times Ready

Experience living-history programs exploring the stories of U.S. Marines, Harpers Ferry residents, formerly enslaved people and John Brown. Park staff and volunteers from the U.S. Marine Corps Historical Company will demonstrate how the raid unfolded and explain its significance in American history. Bring your family, ask questions and enjoy a memorable day at the park.

The park and its partners invite visitors to explore the people and events that shaped Harpers Ferry and the nation. All programs are included with park admission unless otherwise noted.

Plan your visit at https://www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm and learn more at harpersferryhistory.org. The Harpers Ferry Park Association and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park sponsor the programs with support from dedicated volunteers.

nps.gov

About the National Park Service

Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

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